Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that many people experience, but they’re also preventable and treatable. When you get a cavity, it means that a small part of your tooth has decayed due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. If left untreated, a cavity can get bigger and cause pain or even lead to tooth loss. Dental fillings are one of the most common ways to treat cavities and help restore your tooth’s function. Here’s what you need to know about how we treat cavities with dental fillings in Claremont, CA.
What Are Cavities?
A cavity is a small hole or damaged area on a tooth. It forms when the enamel starts to weaken and break down. This process begins with plaque, a sticky film made of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Every time you eat, especially sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids. These acids attack the enamel and gradually wear it away.
If plaque is not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it continues to build up. Over time, the acid damage becomes more severe. At first, you might not feel anything at all. Early stages of tooth decay often cause no pain, which is why regular dental checkups are so important. Dentists can spot cavities before they grow deeper into the tooth.
As a cavity grows, it can reach the dentin, the softer layer underneath the enamel. At this stage, you may start to notice sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. If the decay continues to spread, it can reach the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This can lead to sharp pain, infection, or even an abscess. Treating cavities early helps prevent these problems and keeps your mouth healthy.
How Are Cavities Treated?
The most common way to treat a cavity is with a dental filling. A filling restores the shape and function of the tooth by filling in the hole created by the cavity. Fillings are made from different materials, including silver, gold, and tooth-colored composite resins. The material used depends on the location and size of the cavity, as well as your personal preferences.
The process of getting a filling usually involves numbing the area around the cavity so you won’t feel any pain. Your dentist will then remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a small drill. After the decay is removed, the dentist will clean the area and place the filling to restore the tooth’s shape. Once the filling is in place, the tooth is reshaped to match your natural bite.
Types of Dental Fillings
Several types of dental fillings are available. Our dentist may recommend one based on the size and location of the cavity, your dental needs, and your personal preferences. Each type has its own benefits.
Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They have been used for many years because they are very strong and long-lasting. This makes them a good choice for back teeth, which handle a lot of pressure when chewing. But since they are silver in color, they’re more noticeable and may not be the best choice for visible areas.
Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin that blends in naturally with your teeth. This makes them a popular choice for front teeth or any area that shows when you smile. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, which can help strengthen the tooth. They may not last as long as metal fillings, but advancements in materials have made them more durable over the years.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are extremely durable and can last for many years. They are strong, wear-resistant, and well-tolerated by the gums. However, gold fillings are more expensive than other options, and their noticeable color means they are usually placed in the back of the mouth.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings, often made of porcelain, are tooth-colored and very resistant to staining. They are an attractive option for people who want a natural look but also need a strong material. Ceramic fillings are usually more expensive than composite fillings but tend to last longer.
Why Are Dental Fillings Important?
Dental fillings play a major role in maintaining your oral health. By filling a cavity, you stop the decay from spreading deeper into the tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, the decay can reach the nerves of the tooth and lead to infection, pain, or even the need for more advanced treatments like root canals or tooth extractions.
Fillings also help protect the tooth from future damage. Once the filling is in place, it seals off the area where bacteria could enter. This helps prevent new decay from forming in the same spot. Your filling can last many years when you brush, floss, and visit us twice a year.
Schedule an Appointment
Call Claremont Dental Institute to get a dental filling for your cavity in Claremont, CA. Contact our office at (909) 277-6919. You can also request an appointment with us online.