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Your Path to a Healthier Smile Tooth Filling Dentist in Northern Kentucky
Heritage Dental Center in Northern Kentucky specializes in dental fillings, including fillings for cavities and decayed teeth. Our expert care provides effective, lasting solutions to restore your smile. Schedule your appointment today!
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4 Convenient Locations for Dental Fillings in Northern Kentucky
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What Are Composite Dental Fillings?
Composite fillings are dental materials used to restore teeth damaged by decay. Fillings fill cavities and help prevent further decay while providing a durable, natural-looking solution that restores the tooth's structure and function. Composite fillings are particularly popular due to their ability to blend with natural tooth color, making them ideal for visible areas.
Who They're For:
Composite fillings are ideal for patients with cavities or decayed teeth, especially those who want a natural-looking, durable solution. They are perfect for individuals who:
- Have one or more cavities
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Seek a long-lasting restoration for tooth decay
- Decayed or damaged teeth must be repaired to prevent further dental issues, particularly in visible areas.
Benefits of Teeth Fillings:
- Blend with natural teeth in both appearance and function
- Help prevent further decay and protect surrounding teeth
- Can last a lifetime with proper care
- Do not affect healthy, surrounding teeth
- Restore the ability to eat, speak and smile with confidence
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What to Expect During Your Dental Filling Appointment
A dental filling procedure is a straightforward way to restore a tooth affected by decay. Here's what you can expect during your appointment:
- Initial Consultation and Exam: Your dentist will begin by examining the affected tooth and may take X-rays or scans to assess the extent of decay and plan the treatment.
- Preparation: The area around the cavity will be numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. The decayed portion of the tooth will be removed.
- Filling Application: The cavity will be filled with the chosen material (such as composite resin). For composite fillings, the material is applied in layers, shaped and hardened with a special light.
- Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling is set, your dentist will shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth and polish it for a smooth, natural finish.
- Follow-Up and Care: After the procedure, your dentist will check the fit and bite alignment. You’ll receive instructions on post-treatment care, and a follow-up appointment may be scheduled to ensure proper healing and comfort.
Tooth Filling FAQ
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, depending on the cavity size, location, oral hygiene and wear, particularly in high-pressure areas like molars.
Can composite fillings be repaired?
Yes, composite fillings can be repaired if chipped or damaged. The dentist adds more material, reshapes it and hardens it with a special light.
Are composite fillings prone to staining?
Composite fillings are resistant to staining but may discolor over time due to foods or drinks like coffee, tea or tobacco. Proper oral care helps minimize this.
Can composite fillings be used for large cavities or back teeth?
Yes, composite fillings can be used for large cavities, though additional strengthening techniques may be required for durability in larger fillings or back teeth.
How does placing a composite filling differ from amalgam?
Composite fillings require less tooth removal and bond directly to the tooth, preserving a more natural structure and providing a more aesthetic result compared to amalgam.
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Experience exceptional dental care at one of our 4 Northern Kentucky locations. We warmly welcome new patients into our practice! Contact us today.