If you are concerns about tooth decay or cavities, our dental practice offer several treatments to address your dental concerns. Dr. Greg Reece can preserve natural teeth and prevent tooth extraction with dental fillings in Charlotte, NC. This routine general dentistry procedure can be performed in just one visit to our office. Dr. Reece will assess your teeth and gums before treatment to ensure fillings are right for you. Treatment at Dentistry of the Queen City is personal to each and every patient’s needs.
Dental Fillings in Charlotte, NC
In most cases, Dr. Reece will able to tell that you require a dental filling during your routine dental checkup. However, if you are experiencing tooth pain or a toothache, you should schedule an appointment. At appointment, Dr. Reece will decide if you require a resin or metal filling, or an inlay or onlay.
Eventually, your old filling will need to be replaced. At each checkup, Dr. Reece will check the stability of your fillings and let you know when they should be replaced.
Most people need a dental filling because they require cavity treatment. It is very important that you get your tooth decay treated with a filling as soon as possible once your are diagnosed with decay. The size of the cavity will grow larger and larger and do more damage to your tooth if ignored.
Damaged teeth that are worn down, chipped, or cracked can be fixed with a dental filling. Dr. Reece will simply use the filling to restore the lost tooth structure and protect the tooth from further damage.
Fillings benefit patients who have damaged or infected teeth. Dental fillings can:
- Seal out tooth decay
- Reinforce a stable bite
- Blend in with the color of natural teeth
- Provide a durable restoration
- Protect the tooth from further damage
Resin vs. Metal Dental Fillings
There are two common types of dental fillings: resin and metal fillings.
Resin Fillings
Resin or “white” fillings are made out of composite resin material. Because they are a white color they can blend in with teeth for a more natural look. The dentist places the composite resin in layers and then cures it with a light. The special light hardens and adheres the filling to the tooth.
Resin fillings support the remaining tooth structure and can help prevent teeth from breaking. This treatment option can also repair chipped, broken, or worn teeth. We remove less tooth structure to prepare for “white” fillings.
Metal Fillings
Metal fillings or silver amalgam fillings consist of silver, tin, copper, and zinc. These fillings may not blend in with teeth but are highly durable. With the correct dental care, metal fillings often last patients for up to 15 years. Metal fillings can also stand up to the biting and chewing forces of the jaw.
Inlays and Onlays
In addition to resin or metal fillings, if the affected tooth is larger, or the decay is substantial, Dr. Reece may suggest an inlay or onlay. An inlay fits inside the top edges of the tooth and an onlay extends over the cusps of the treated tooth. Dentists create inlays and onlays from a single, solid piece of material. The process to get an inlay or onlay is similar to getting a dental crown. It will take several visits since this type of restoration is fabricated in a dental lab.
Dental Fillings FAQs
Please read our questions and answers regarding dental fillings. If you still have questions or concerns about your treatment, please feel free to call our dentist office during regular business hours.
How long do fillings last in your teeth?
Fillings typically last up to 12 years. Fillings are more commonly a composite, rather than metal. This material may be slightly less durable than metal, but it blends in to match the color of your teeth.
Is getting a filling painful?
Fillings can be a painful experience for some patients, while others may feel zero pain at all. Dentists may use an anesthetic prior to doing a filling, especially if it is a deep cavity. Cavities are only painful if they hit a nerve.
Can mercury fillings cause health problems?
The long-term effects of mercury fillings are definitely a concern, and a large reason that mercury is not used in fillings anymore. Mercury fillings can cause mercury poising, insomnia, nerve damage, respiratory failure, and kidney issues. They are also known to cause headaches and migraines in patients.
How long does it take to get a dental filling?
In general, it will take Dr. Reece about 30 minutes to an hour to do a dental filling. However, it also depends on several factors. The size and complexity of the cavity can affect how long it takes him. Also, how well the patient cooperates can also affect the treatment time. Patients who need multiple fillings may need to schedule several appointments. During your consult, Dr. Reece will create a treatment plan so you will know what to expect.
Will I be able to eat and drink normally after a dental filling?
After your dental filling, we suggest that you wait until the local anesthetic wears completely off before you eat food or drink hot liquids. This is to prevent injuries. While eating, you may accidentally bite your tongue, lips, or cheek due to the numbness. You also may not be able to gauge how hot your drink is and burn your mouth. Once your are no longer numb, you can eat and drink normally.
How do I care for my tooth after I get a dental filling?
Caring for a tooth with a dental filling is simple. All you need to do is maintain good oral hygiene. You will need to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss around each tooth at least once a day. We suggest using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft bristle toothbrush for the best results. Regular dental checkups are also very important. They allow your dentist to monitor the dental filling and make sure you are in good dental health.
Schedule a Dental Exam with Dr. Greg Reece
Do you need a dental filling, inlay, or onlay? Call Dentistry of the Queen City at 704-486-8911 today. Dr. Reece will make sure that you receive comfortable, high-quality, and comprehensive dental fillings treatment.
If you have any questions about dental fillings or inlays and onlays, let Dr. Reece know at your next appointment. He will clarify your dental options for you. Taking your budget, dental concerns, and oral health into account, Dr. Reece will help you make an informed decision about which solution is the most beneficial.