Dental Fillings in Phoenix, AZ
A filling is the most common of the general dental procedures. A filling replaces the part of the tooth removed because of damage from decay and restores the tooth to its proper function.
The doctors and the oral healthcare professionals at Garden Lakes Family Dentistry, located near you in Phoenix, want to educate their patients, current and new, on the purpose of fillings and the materials used in this procedure.
The Basic Procedure
When you get a filling, the dentist first removes all decayed matter from the tooth, cleans the affected area and fills the cavity with the filling material. A filling also prevents further decay to the area by sealing the gap where bacteria can enter.
The Filling Material
The materials used for fillings depend on the choice of the dentist, whether the patient has certain allergies or preferences, the location within the mouth, and the cost. Below is a list of the common filling materials and a brief discussion of each.
- Gold
Gold fillings are custom made in a dental lab. Many dental authorities use because of its high tolerance by the gum tissue and its durability. However, gold is the most expensive of the materials and requires multiple dental visits. - Amalgams
An alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc, amalgams are the most common and the least expensive. Amalgam fillings are also resistant to wear. However, due to their dark color, these fillings are noticeable within the mouth and are not used in visible repair areas. - Composite
Composite fillings are colored to the natural teeth for use in visible areas. Also known as simply “white” or “tooth-colored” fillings, these are preferred by many patients, as they are affordable and unnoticeable.
At Garden Lakes Family Dentistry, we use composite fillings for our patients’ convenience. If you have any questions about the fillings we provide, let us know!
When Do I Need a Filling?
During a regular dental exam, the dentist uses a small mirror to examine the surfaces of each tooth. Any abnormalities are then closely checked with other instruments and x-rayed.
The type of treatment the dentist ultimately recommends will depend upon the extent and the location of the damage.
If you would like a consultation for additional information on the procedure and the materials used for dental fillings, then please contact the oral healthcare professionals at Garden Lakes Family Dentistry, located in Phoenix, where new patients are always welcome.
Garden Lakes Family Dentistry is trusted and highly recommended for dental filling procedures, as well as treatments and procedures in general and restorative dentistry.
