Dental fillings rarely start with a patient that is looking for their teeth to get a filling, despite the fact that the gold fillings do look very snazzy. The reality is that most patients come in for a regularly scheduled checkup and we find that there are sufficient wear and tear. Thus, the tooth requires a filling to keep the tooth viable. Occasionally, although rare these days, will we get a patient who is young or lucky with great teeth and has no idea what a filling is or why it is necessary.
A dental filling is a material that replaces damaged tooth enamel or a tooth that has a cavity. At other times, we will find what is known as a soft spot, where the enamel has almost given way to a cavity but not quite. We prefer to fill these as well since it is only a matter of time before the decay breaks through.
Considering that a dental filling usually starts with an examination, we cannot stress enough the importance of coming in for regular checkups. The best rule of thumb is to try and make an appointment at least twice a year, which allows us to find things like soft spots or identify areas that have excessive plaque buildup. Regular appointments allows Okamoto and Bigley Dentistry to help prevent these issues from damaging patient's teeth.
The first thing we do with a filling is to numb the area around the tooth so that the patient does not feel any discomfort. We mainly use an application of local anesthetic directly into the gums to numb the mouth. Once the patient's mouth is numb, he or she will not feel any discomfort besides a little pressure as we work on the teeth.
In order to make sure that we get rid of all the decay and that the decay has no chance of spreading or coming back, we will shave off all the portions of the tooth that have decay. While the dentist is removing this bad enamel, we will also take the opportunity to shape where the cavity had been so that it is a good shape for a filling. This will allow the filling itself to be more secure.
From this point on, the tooth is ready to receive the filling. We will make any specific preparations to the patient's needs before placing the filling. A bonded filling, for example, we need to etch the tooth whereas some fillings require resin. If a resin is used, we apply it and then use the cool blue light to harden and strengthen it.
Don't live with a damaged tooth. Call us to see if composite fillings are the best choice for you.Composite fillings are tooth-colored to provide a natural appearance and still remain as effective as other fillings. We use composite fillings to restore teeth and perfect our patient's smiles.Composite FillingsAt Okamoto and Bigley Dentistry in Pasadena, we…
Brushing and flossing on a regular basis are great for one’s oral health, but there are still ways in which people can unintentionally harm the health of their teeth. Many people know that sugar is bad for the enamel of one’s teeth but may not realize there are other foods that can cause as much…
Infection doesn't take a break on the weekend and neither should you. Keep up routine dental care 24/7Routine dental care is important for a healthy set of teeth. While we can provide routine dental care during appointments, you need to keep it up at home through brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.Routine…
Brushing at home may not be enough to keep a perfect smile, visit our office for routine dental proceduresWe use routine dental procedures during our appointments to ensure that a patient maintains healthy teeth. You can keep oral hygiene habits at home but will need professional cleaning at least twice a year.Routine Dental ProceduresAt Okamoto…
Orthodontic therapy is not just for improving appearance! Most general dentists also recommend treatment to improve their patients' oral health first and foremost. When the teeth are crooked or crowded, the result can be poor oral health, as well as poor oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can lead to serious problems with both the teeth…
Curious about dental crowns? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. If a dentist determines that you need a dental crown, there are several reasons why they may make that suggestion. A crown is a common dental restoration to cover and protect a tooth with compromised structural integrity. Their natural appearance and…