Found a cavity? What to expect from a tooth-colored filling
What happens when your dentist finds a cavity, how tooth-colored composite fillings are placed, how long they last, and how to keep decay away.
Hearing that you have a cavity is never welcome news, but a cavity found early is usually quick and simple to fix. Here is what happens when we find tooth decay, how a tooth-colored filling is placed, and how to keep new cavities from forming.
Why cavities shouldn’t wait
A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by acid from plaque bacteria. Decay doesn’t heal on its own once a hole has formed, and it spreads faster once it passes the hard outer enamel. A small cavity treated now usually needs only a small filling. Left alone, the same cavity can grow until the tooth needs a crown or a root canal.
How we find cavities
Many cavities cause no pain at first. At your routine checkups, we examine each tooth and use digital X-rays when needed to see between teeth and under existing fillings, where decay often hides.
Tooth-colored fillings
We use composite resin, a tooth-colored material that is matched to the shade of your tooth. Composite fillings:
- Blend in naturally, so no one will notice them when you smile.
- Bond to the tooth, which helps support the remaining tooth structure.
- Often need less drilling than older silver fillings, preserving more of your natural tooth.
What happens at the appointment
- Numbing. We numb the area so you are comfortable throughout.
- Removing the decay. The damaged part of the tooth is carefully removed and the area cleaned.
- Placing the filling. The composite is applied in thin layers and each layer is hardened with a special light.
- Shaping and polishing. We shape the filling to fit your bite and polish it to a natural shine.
Most fillings take well under an hour. Your lip and cheek may stay numb for a few hours afterward, so be careful not to bite them. Some mild sensitivity for a few days is normal.
How long do they last?
With good care, composite fillings can last many years. Like natural teeth, they can wear, chip or develop new decay at the edges over time, which is why we check them at each visit.
Keeping decay away
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily.
- Limit how often you snack on sugary or starchy foods and sip sugary or acidic drinks.
- Keep up with checkups and cleanings.
- Ask whether sealants or fluoride treatments make sense for you or your children.
Think you might have a cavity, or due for a checkup? Contact SmileNY Dental to schedule a visit.