The insertion of tooth fillings is one of the most commonly performed procedures by dentists. These materials are used to fill up the holes in your teeth created by cavities. Fillings have been traditionally made out of metal alloys, but composite fillings are becoming increasingly popular nowadays.
Fillings help to protect teeth that have already been damaged by tooth decay from decaying any further. Once a tooth if filled up, any pain or discomfort associated with the cavity should go away.
Here are some reasons why you might want to get fillings.
1) Prevents Cavities from Growing
When a cavity is filled up, it stops the decay from spreading further into the tooth. This can help preserve the structure of the tooth and prevent further damage.
When you get a filling, your dentist will remove the decay from your tooth and fill it up with a material that acts as a sealant. This is done to protect the nerves and dentine inside the tooth from coming into contact with the cold and acidic elements found in food and saliva. This helps to prevent the pain that can be caused by cavities when the nerves are exposed.
2) Improves Tooth Structure
Fillings also help to improve the overall structure of the tooth. After the decay is removed, the filling material is used to fill up the space and make the tooth stronger and more resistant to further damage. This can help to reduce the chances of a tooth breaking or cracking in the future.
Instead of the tooth being hollowed out by the cavity, the filling will give it much-needed support. Fillings are temporary solutions, so there is no damage done to your tooth during their application.
3) Improves Teeth Coloring
Fillings can also help to improve the overall color of your teeth. This is especially important if you have a dark-colored filling, as it can help to mask the discoloration and make your teeth appear brighter and whiter.
Fillings are usually made from a material that closely matches the color of the surrounding teeth, so it can help to make your teeth look more uniform and aesthetically pleasing.
4) Protects Teeth from Decay
The small openings on the surface of your teeth can be traps for food particles and bacteria, eventually leading to decay. To prevent this, these openings can be filled with a composite material to seal them off and protect your teeth.
In addition, the filling material itself can help to prevent bacteria from growing in the area, as it is not as prone to discoloration or staining like natural teeth. This helps to reduce the risk of further decay.
5) Fortifies Fractured Teeth
If you have a tooth that has been chipped or cracked, a dental filling can help to fortify it. In some cases, a filling can even be used to completely rebuild a tooth that has been damaged beyond repair. This can help to restore the tooth’s strength and function.
Your teeth can become damaged if you participate in strenuous physical activities, like sports or if you’re involved in an accident. Additionally, biting down on hard substances, such as ice or hard candy, can also result in a fractured tooth.
Conclusion
Dental fillings are an important part of maintaining good oral health. They can help to fill in gaps in your teeth and to fortify teeth that have become chipped or cracked. Fillings are also used to prevent decay and to reduce the risk of cavities.
If you have a cavity or a damaged tooth, talk to your dentist about getting a dental filling. Northampton Dental Specialists offers cosmetic dentistry in Northampton to bring back your smile. Get in touch with us today to learn how.
