Dental Fillings in Cheltenham
Composite fillings are a minimally-invasive treatment for repairing small cavities. These tooth-coloured restorations are amalgam-free and made to match your tooth.
Do I Have a Cavity?
Not all cavities cause pain. While toothaches are fairly common, other common symptoms include
- Sensitivity to certain types of foods
- Rough edges
- Floss shredding when you clean between teeth
- Something feeling ‘off’ when you bite down
The best way to check for cavities and determine how extensive they are, is to have a small X-ray taken of your tooth. If the decay reaches into the nerve, a root canal may be required. Our goal is to intercept cavities while they’re small and restricted to the outermost layers of your tooth.
Indirect Filling Options
If you have a large cavity, an indirect (lab-made filling) may offer the best results. Also known as inlays and onlays, these restorations repair a larger area than small fillings while delaying the need for a full dental crown. Like composite fillings, indirect restorations are made from durable cosmetic materials such as porcelain.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
The length of your dental restorations is closely dependent upon your oral hygiene and diet. With proper care and maintenance, we can expect most fillings to last between 7-8 years. Diets high in sugar and carbohydrates can facilitate recurring cavity development, even around newly placed fillings.
What Causes Cavities?
Tooth decay is the result of dietary choices and oral hygiene habits. If plaque isn’t removed thoroughly through daily brushing and flossing, or your diet is rich in highly acidic, high in simple carbohydrates or sweet foods, your risk of cavities will increase.
Reserve an Exam
If you think you might have a cavity, contact our office to reserve an exam.
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Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
