Dentist in Grand Junction | Ruby Canyon Dental

Dental fillings are a standard procedure that many people undergo every year. In fact, according to various sources, over 90% of adults in the United States have had at least one dental filling. The chances are that you will need a filling at some point in your life.

For some people, getting a dental filling from your dentist in Grand Junction is not very appealing, mainly because they assume the procedure will hurt. But do fillings hurt? The answer is, “not usually.” 

What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a procedure in which a dentist removes decay from a tooth and then fills it with a material. In the past, the most common material was silver amalgam fillings, which are made of various metals. 

A composite resin filling is made of plastic and glass. Today, it is often used because it matches the color of the teeth. Composite fillings offer a variety of oral health benefits compared to amalgam fillings, which is why they are becoming the most common type of filling.

When is a Filling Necessary?

Dental fillings are necessary when a tooth is damaged by decay. When decay is present, the tooth’s enamel has been breached, and bacteria have entered the tooth’s inner layers. If left untreated, decay can spread and eventually lead to an infection.

Dental fillings protect teeth from decay by filling in the hole left behind after the decay is removed. It stops the bacteria from entering the tooth and causing further damage. Dental fillings also restore the tooth’s strength and stability, which can help prevent future decay from occurring.

Several symptoms can indicate that you have tooth decay and may need dental care:

• Toothache
• Sensitivity
• Visible Holes
• Staining

What is the Process of Getting a Dental Filling?

Suppose your dentist in Grand Junction has determined that you need a dental filling during your biannual exam and cleaning. In that case, the next step is to numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. Numbing will ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure.

Once numb, your dentist will use a drill to remove the decay and clean the cavity to kill any excess bacteria. They will then fill the hole with tooth-colored composite fillings that closely match your natural tooth color. Then they use a special light to cure and harden the material.

After the filling is hardened, your dentist will polish it to blend in with the rest of your tooth. The process usually takes less than an hour, and you can go about your day once finished. 

Dental Anesthetics Make the Process Painless

One of the most common misconceptions about fillings is that they are painful. But as we explained above, they are usually not painful at all. The dental anesthetic numbs the area around the tooth so that you do not feel any pain during the procedure. Dental fillings with your dentist in Grand Junction are nothing to be afraid of.

You may sometimes feel some soreness after having a filling placed. This pain is usually mild and does not require medications. It should also fade within a week or two of having the filling. 

Visit Your Dentist in Grand Junction for a Healthy Smile

If you have questions or concerns about dental tooth-colored fillings, contact Ruby Canyon Dental. Our team is more than happy to answer any questions you may have about our dental services. But above all, keep smiling.