Tooth decay is a common problem for many people, and it’s treatable when addressed early on. To restore the tooth, dentists use dental fillings, and the staff at Legacy Dental Arts in Eagle River, AK, want to explain further. By understanding what they are, you’ll be able to prepare properly for the procedure and comprehend how it will benefit your teeth. If you feel you’re dealing with tooth decay or have a cavity, learn more below.

What Are Dental Fillings?

When decay eats a hole in your tooth, it’s important to close this space so that bacteria can’t enter and cause more damage. To accomplish this, dentists use dental fillings to restore the tooth’s shape and protect it. By using gold, amalgam, composite, or porcelain fillings, they can seal areas damaged by decay so that the tooth is once again protected and healthy. Dental fillings can also be used for minor breaks and fractures where more extensive bonding and other cosmetic dentistry services aren’t necessary.

How Are Dental Fillings Applied?

Your dentist will need to clear the tooth of decay-causing bacteria before filling your cavity. To begin, they’ll numb the area around the tooth. They’ll then use a drill on the affected area to reach and remove all of the decay and create an even space to fill. Once the area is fully prepared, they’ll fill it with a protective agent. Gold is the longest lasting and most durable, though is more expensive than amalgam and composite options. It’s important to get dental fillings before the decay is allowed to advance, as it may turn into a root canal and cause further damage that significantly affects your tooth’s health.

Dental fillings are a simple and painless procedure, so turn to the staff at Legacy Dental Arts for treatment. They provide comprehensive dentistry services and are committed to using the latest equipment and techniques to create a comfortable treatment environment for patients. Call (907) 622-7874 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their practice.