Dental Fillings
Albany, OR
Dental Fillings in Albany provided by Dr. Jeffrey Carl & Dr. Austin Brunson at Jeffrey Carl DMD
 Dental fillings repair damaged or decayed teeth. It is one of the most common dental procedures. When the tooth enamel is compromised or infected, holes may form on the surface. These holes, and cavities, are filled up using dental cement to restore the surface and function of the tooth. Cavities, if left untreated, spread below the gum line leading to other complications.
Dental cavities are assessed during a dental checkup using dental tools like a lens and light to check all teeth surfaces. Tooth discolorations, sensitivity to temperature, or any abnormalities noticed by our dentist enable them to make a diagnosis. Sometimes, x-rays and other digital imaging is required to examine the tooth better. Visit us at Jeffrey Carl DMD for more inquiries on dental fillings.
Everything You Need to Know About Dental Fillings
Dental fillings help repair minor tooth cavities and fractures by evening out the surface and reducing sensitivity. After a dental filling has been decided on, the patient may reschedule or have the procedure on the same day. The dental filling has to be decided on in accordance with the patient's needs and our dentist's recommendation. Dental and medical history, cosmetic preferences, the position of the cavity, financial capability, and filling preferences will all be considered.
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, inducing comfort throughout the operation. Dentists use a special oral drilling hand-piece and laser to remove the damaged pieces of the tooth. Our dentists then apply gels and cleanse the area to remove debris and bacteria. The hole is shaped, and a liner is placed to protect the nerves. If our dentist uses a bonded material, they will etch the hole with a gel to ensure all crevices are covered.
After, our dentist places and shapes the filling material, hardening it with a special light in each layer applied. The light cures the resin material to make it strong. Our dentist polishes the surface to remove any sharp edges.
After the Procedure
How Long Does Numbness Last After Dental Filling?
After a dental filling procedure, patients may feel some sensitivity on the repaired tooth, but this should go away quickly. However, if you feel pressure and pain when you bite down, it is possible the filling is too protruded, and you might need to return to the office to have our dentist smooth it down. Persistent pain should be reported to our dentist for a follow-up. The filling might need to be replaced, the liner gel added, or the tooth desensitized. If the filling is too deep, another procedure, like a root canal, may be recommended.
What to Do After Dental Filling?
Patients should follow good dental hygiene to prevent cavities from forming under or near the filling by brushing, flossing, and mouth rinsing with antimicrobial or fluoride products to remove bacteria and plaque. Tobacco and alcohol use should be avoided, increasing the risk of cavities.
Can You Eat After a Dental Filling?
Yes, you can eat immediately after getting a dental filling, as most dentists use composite fillings that harden instantly under UV light. If it's an amalgam filling, it's recommended to wait about 24 hours before eating on that side of the mouth.
Contact Us Today!
At Jeffrey Carl DMD, we can help you proudly show your smile. Contact us via (541) 918-2361 for any questions or appointment request to our Albany dental office. |
