If you have a cavity your treatment plan will depend on how serious the decay is, and how much damage has been done to the tooth. Your doctor will discuss your specific plan. If the tooth structure is still good, we can usually remove the decayed area and fill the void with either gold, porcelain, silver amalgam, or glass materials called composite resins. This same process can sometimes be used with cracked or chipped teeth, or those that have been worn down.
To maintain fillings you must practice good oral hygiene, have regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist, and floss at least once a day.
If you already have a filling and have pain or sensitivity in the area, feel a sharp edge, see a crack or a missing piece, call our office right away. We will assess the filling, sometimes by using an x-ray, and determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Do not delay if you believe you have a cavity or cracked filling, as prompt care is critical to avoiding more serious issues.
