Dental Fillings New Westminster
When someone has a cavity this is treated by removing the infected part of the tooth (decay) and replacing it with a restorative material (filling).
Additionally, fillings can be used to repair broken teeth and teeth that have been worn down from improper function (i.e. grinding).
When a tooth needs a filling, the steps involved are as follows:
- We begin by freezing the area to be worked on by using local anaesthetic (ie Lidocaine).
- Next, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed using a handpiece (drill) and other instruments.
- If the decay was near the nerve we may first put in a liner that functions to insulate the nerve thus decreasing the chance of post-operative sensitivity.
- The filling material (most frequently composite resin, white) is placed into the tooth in increments and light cured which causes the material to harden into the shape we have created.
- Once the filling has been placed, it needs to be contoured and refined and polished. The bite is checked and adjusted if need be.
- Once the freezing wears off the patient has a functional filling that can be used to eat immediately.
Contact New West Dentistry & Implant Centre today for more information on dental fillings or to book an appointment.
