Dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin, commonly referred to as tooth fillings or cavity fillings, serve the purpose of repairing teeth that have been damaged or affected by decay. These fillings occupy the space left by a cavity, effectively halting further deterioration and reinstating the tooth’s original function and form. Various materials can be utilized for fillings, including composite resin (which matches the color of natural teeth), amalgam (which has a silver appearance), gold, or porcelain.
Types of Fillings
Direct Fillings
Dentists are capable of creating and placing direct dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin within the patient’s mouth, eliminating the necessity for a dental laboratory or the use of temporary restorations. The process of obtaining a direct filling typically requires only a single visit to the dental office.
Common Materials for Direct Fillings:
Amalgam is a silver-colored material that includes mercury combined with silver, tin, zinc, and copper.
Resin composite, which is tooth-colored, is composed of a resin base mixed with powdered quartz, silica, or glass.
Glass ionomer, also tooth-colored, is formulated from silica glass powder.
Indirect Fillings
A dental technician is responsible for fabricating indirect dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin in a laboratory setting prior to their placement by your dentist. Typically, the process for most indirect fillings necessitates two visits to the dental office: the first visit is dedicated to obtaining dental impressions, while the second visit involves the actual placement of the restoration. However, if your dentist employs CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) technology, it is possible to design and install your indirect filling within a single appointment.
Inlays and Onlays represent two prevalent forms of indirect dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin utilized by dentists. These restorations are indicated when a tooth exhibits significant damage that precludes the use of a standard filling, yet does not warrant the application of a dental crown. Both inlays and onlays are meticulously crafted to integrate seamlessly with the existing tooth structure, resembling a small puzzle piece that enhances the tooth’s integrity.
Common Materials for Indirect Fillings:
Gold is characterized by its distinctive golden hue and is an alloy composed of gold combined with various other metals such as silver, tin, copper, or palladium.
Porcelain, on the other hand, is known for its tooth-like color and is made from a blend of minerals including feldspar, quartz, and kaolin.
The Procedure
A dental professional will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth. They will then utilize specialized tools to eliminate any damaged or decayed tissue from the tooth. Following this, the cavity will be filled with appropriate dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin material. If resin composite is used, a dental curing light will be employed to harden the filling. The dentist will then polish and smooth any rough edges to ensure a comfortable finish. Finally, they will assess your bite to confirm that it feels normal and natural.
For individuals who experience anxiety when visiting the dentist, it is advisable to inquire about sedation options. Sedation dentistry is designed to help patients remain calm and at ease throughout their procedures, enhancing the overall experience and reducing discomfort.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin are utilized to address current tooth decay and mitigate the likelihood of future harm. Depending on the filling material selected, they may also serve to reinforce compromised teeth, maintain the integrity of natural tooth structure, restore the ability to chew effectively, improve the aesthetic appeal of your teeth, and provide durability that can last between 10 to 20 years.
Does Filling Hurt?
Receiving a dental filling should not be painful, as your dentist will administer local anesthesia to ensure the area is numb. Should you experience any discomfort during the procedure, it is important to inform your dentist so they can provide additional numbing medication to enhance your comfort.
Do Fillings Remove Decay?
Prior to placing a dental fillings Hayward Wisconsin, the dentist is required to eliminate any decayed or damaged sections of your tooth. Failing to remove infected tissue can lead to the cavity expanding further, potentially resulting in more significant dental issues.
