Dental Fillings in Perth

A tooth filling procedure involves several steps, depending on the type of filling. Generally, a dental filling procedure involves the following steps:

Your dentist will first numb the area around your tooth with a local anaesthetic. They may not need to administer anaesthesia if the decay is limited to the tooth’s surface. They can remove the damaged enamel without causing pain.

As soon as the anaesthetic has taken effect, your dentist will carefully remove the decay with a drill or an air abrasion instrument. Afterwards, they will make sure that the hole size and shape of the cavity are suitable and thoroughly clean it to ensure it’s ready for a filling material.

The dentist will then carefully fill the cavity with the appropriate dental filling material. The next step of the procedure depends on which type of tooth-filling material will be used based on each individual’s needs and preferences. 

A dental amalgam filling is prepared by mixing all the materials just right before they are pressed into place. The material hardens on its own after a short time. 

Meanwhile, there are additional steps involved in tooth-coloured composite fillings. Several layers of composite resin fillings will be applied to the area. The layers will be cured and micromechanically bonded to the tooth structure using a special light to provide support. 

For indirect fillings, gold inlays, or porcelain inlays, your dentist will take moulds of your teeth that will be sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication. While you wait for your permanent fillings, you’ll receive a temporary filling.

Lastly, your dentist will refine your tooth’s shape so that they are as close to your original tooth as possible, remove any excess material, and polish the restoration.

You shouldn’t feel any pain in your filled tooth after the anaesthetic wears off. Nevertheless, the injection site may be sore, and you may experience tooth sensitivity for a few days. Here are some tips to help reduce tooth sensitivity:

• Try chewing on the opposite side for a few days.
• Clean around the filling gently with a toothbrush and floss.
• Avoid eating or drinking anything hot or cold.
• Don’t eat anything acidic.
• Use desensitizing fluoride toothpaste to prevent tooth sensitivity.

Generally, additional visits to the dental office are not necessary after a cavity filling. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions and maintain a healthy diet to avoid adverse health effects. In the event of severe tooth pain after a filling procedure, or if your teeth remain sensitive for more than two weeks, make an appointment with your dentist.