Fillings Q & A

What are fillings?

Fillings are restorative treatments for tooth decay or cavities. Tooth decay makes your teeth weaker and more susceptible to cracks, chips, and breaks. Fillings provide extra support for your teeth, allowing you to keep your natural teeth intact and avoid costly replacements like bridges or implants.  At Michael S. Yung DDS the team primarily uses composite fillings for an attractive result. Composite fillings, also called white fillings, are made of a durable mixture of plastic and glass that looks similar to your teeth. Before you get your filling, your provider assesses the shade of your teeth and creates the mixture to match it nearly perfectly. Once your filling is in place, and others see your smile, they won’t be able to notice the filling standing out among your healthy teeth.

When do I need a filling?

Fillings are a common treatment for cavities, but you might be unaware of a cavity as it damages your tooth. Each time you attend a regular exam and cleaning appointment at Michael S. Yung DDS your provider closely examines your teeth for signs of cavities that you might not have noticed. They use a small mirror to view the surfaces of your teeth that you can’t see on your own when you smile or open your mouth.

In some cases, cavities come with symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore. You should book an appointment at Michael S. Yung DDS to find out if you have a cavity and need a filling if you experience:

• Spontaneous tooth pain
• Visible holes in your teeth
• Dark brown, black, or white stains on your teeth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Sensitivity to sweetness

During your visit, your provider may also X-ray the problem tooth to see the extent of the cavity on the inside. 

What should I expect when I get a filling?

It might ease your mind to know exactly what to expect when you get a filling from your provider at Michael S. Yung DDS. First, your provider removes all of the decayed material from the inside your tooth. Then, they thoroughly clean and sanitize the tooth to prepare it for the filling. Doing this ensures that a cavity will not redevelop within your tooth. 

After preparation, your provider applies the composite resin to your tooth in layers. Between each application, they harden the composite resin with a bright light. Once all of the composite resin is in place and solidified, they shape the composite to match the original shape of your tooth. Finally, they polish it, so it shines like the natural enamel of your healthy teeth. 

To find out if you or a loved one requires a filling to treat a cavity, call Michael S. Yung DDS or book an appointment online today.