Ever wondered what actually happens when you get a cavity filled? At Mountain West Dental, Dr. Keaton Tomlin and Dr. Allison Tomlin are here to take the mystery out of dental fillings and make sure you know exactly what to expect. From quick fixes for cavities to restoring damaged teeth, a filling can make a big difference in maintaining your oral health. Let’s dive into what happens before, during, and after your filling.
Consultation and Evaluation
Before diving into the filling process, the first step is a thorough consultation with Dr. Keaton Tomlin or Dr. Allison Tomlin at Mountain West Dental. During this visit, the dentist will assess your tooth using a combination of visual exams and x-rays to determine the extent of decay or damage. The goal is to ensure that a filling is the right solution to restore the tooth’s health.
Once the issue is identified, your dentist will walk you through the type of filling material that’s best suited for your case, whether it’s a tooth-colored composite or more traditional options. This is also your opportunity to ask any questions and get comfortable with the process ahead.
With your treatment plan set, it’s time to prepare for the actual procedure, which we’ll explore next.
Numbing and Tooth Preparation
Once your consultation is complete and a treatment plan is in place, the next step is preparing your tooth for the filling. Dr. Keaton Tomlin or Dr. Allison Tomlin at Mountain West Dental ensures this process is as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s what to expect during this stage:
1. Numbing the Area
- To ensure a pain-free experience, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to the surrounding area.
- The numbing process takes just a few minutes, and you’ll start to feel the tooth and surrounding gum tissue go completely numb.
- This step ensures you won’t feel any sensation while the tooth is being treated.
2. Cleaning Out the Cavity
- Once numb, the dentist will carefully remove any decayed or damaged portions of the tooth.
- A dental drill or laser may be used to clean out the cavity, depending on the size and location.
- This step is crucial to eliminate all decay and create a clean, healthy base for the filling.
3. Tooth Preparation
- After cleaning, the tooth is shaped to make room for the filling material.
- Your dentist may also apply a conditioning gel to help the filling bond to your tooth more securely.
With the area fully prepared, the filling process can now begin. Next, let’s dive into how the filling is placed and shaped for a natural look and feel.
Final Adjustments
Once your filling is securely in place, the final step involves fine-tuning to make sure everything feels just right. Dr. Keaton Tomlin and Dr. Allison Tomlin take great care in this final phase to ensure your bite is comfortable and the filling functions like a natural tooth. Here’s what happens:
- Bite Check: After the filling is placed, you’ll be asked to bite down on a special paper that shows where your teeth make contact. This allows the dentist to see if any areas of the filling are too high or need adjustment.
- Smoothing the Filling: If any rough or raised spots are detected, the dentist will smooth them down to ensure your bite is balanced. This step is essential for preventing future issues like jaw pain or uneven wear.
- Final Polishing: Once the adjustments are complete, the filling will be polished one last time for a smooth, natural finish.
By the end of this process, your tooth will be restored to full function. Next, let’s explore some simple aftercare tips to keep your filling in top shape.
Keeping Your Filling in Top Shape
Now that your filling is complete, proper aftercare is key to ensuring its longevity and your overall oral health. At Mountain West Dental, Dr. Keaton Tomlin and Dr. Allison Tomlin provide patients with essential aftercare tips to make sure everything heals smoothly and the filling remains durable. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Avoid Eating Immediately: After the procedure, it’s best to wait until the numbness completely wears off before eating to prevent biting your cheek or tongue.
- Watch for Sensitivity: It’s normal to experience some mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods for a few days. This should fade quickly, but if it persists, let your dentist know.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue your regular routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily to protect both the filling and your other teeth.
- Schedule Regular Check-ups: Routine dental visits allow Dr. Keaton Tomlin and Dr. Allison Tomlin to check the condition of your filling and make sure everything stays in perfect shape.
With these simple aftercare practices, your filling can last for many years. Now that we’ve covered aftercare, let’s answer a few common questions patients have about dental fillings.
Common Questions About Dental Fillings
It’s natural to have a few questions about dental fillings, especially if it’s your first time getting one. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear at Mountain West Dental:
- How long will my filling last? With proper care, most fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on the material used and your oral hygiene habits.
- Will I feel any pain during the procedure? Thanks to local anesthetics, you should feel no pain during the procedure. Some mild pressure may be felt, but the numbing ensures a pain-free experience.
- What happens if my filling falls out? If your filling becomes loose or falls out, contact Mountain West Dental right away. We can replace it quickly to prevent further damage or discomfort.
These answers should help ease any concerns you may have and give you confidence in maintaining your filling for years to come. With the right care and regular dental check-ups, your smile will stay healthy and strong.
Seal the Deal: A Brighter Smile Awaits
Getting a dental filling is a straightforward process that can make a big difference in your oral health. At Mountain West Dental, Dr. Keaton Tomlin and Dr. Allison Tomlin ensure every step, from consultation to aftercare, is designed for your comfort and confidence. If you’re dealing with a cavity or need a filling, don’t wait—schedule your consultation at our Las Vegas office today and get your smile back on track!
