The Process of Getting Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common and essential procedure for maintaining oral health and restoring the function and integrity of damaged teeth. At Sunset Dental Group in Santa Ana, CA, Drs. Amanda and Jerry Kronquist provide expert care to ensure that your dental filling experience is as comfortable and efficient as possible. This blog will guide you through the entire process of getting dental fillings, from diagnosis to aftercare.

Understanding Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are used to repair cavities, cracks, or fractures in teeth. They restore the tooth’s shape, function, and appearance while preventing further decay and damage. Fillings can be made from various materials, including composite resin, amalgam, gold, and porcelain, each offering different benefits.

The Dental Filling Procedure: Step-by-Step

1. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

The process begins with a thorough dental examination. During your visit to Sunset Dental Group, Drs. Amanda and Jerry Kronquist will examine your teeth and take X-rays to identify any cavities or damage. If a filling is necessary, they will discuss the best material for your specific needs and preferences.

2. Preparing the Tooth

Before the filling can be placed, the affected tooth must be prepared. This involves numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. For patients who are anxious or have a low pain threshold, sedation dentistry options are available to help you relax.

3. Removing Decay

Once the area is numb, Dr. Kronquist will use a dental drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step is crucial for preventing further decay and ensuring a strong foundation for the filling. The dentist will also shape the cavity to accommodate the filling material.

4. Cleaning the Cavity

After the decay is removed, the cavity is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any remaining bacteria and debris. This step helps to prevent future infections and ensures that the filling material adheres properly to the tooth structure.

5. Placing the Filling

The type of filling material used will determine the placement process:

Composite Resin Fillings: These are applied in layers. Each layer is hardened using a special light before the next one is added. Composite fillings are popular for their natural appearance, as they can be matched to the color of your teeth.
Amalgam Fillings: These are a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. They are known for their durability and are often used for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest.
Gold and Porcelain Fillings: These are typically made in a lab and require two visits. During the first visit, an impression of your tooth is taken and sent to the lab. A temporary filling is placed until the permanent one is ready. On your second visit, the permanent filling is cemented in place.

6. Shaping and Polishing

Once the filling is placed, Dr. Kronquist will shape and polish it to ensure a smooth finish and a comfortable bite. This step is essential for the filling to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and to prevent any discomfort when you chew or bite.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the longevity of your dental fillings. Here are some tips to keep your fillings in good condition:

Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to prevent further decay and maintain overall oral health.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to Sunset Dental Group for routine check-ups and cleanings. Drs. Amanda and Jerry Kronquist will monitor the condition of your fillings and address any issues promptly.
Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious with hard foods and objects that can damage your fillings. Chewing on ice, hard candies, or using your teeth to open packages can lead to cracks or fractures in the fillings.

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Choosing Sunset Dental Group for Your Dental Fillings

At Sunset Dental Group, we are committed to providing the highest quality dental care in Santa Ana, CA. Drs. Amanda and Jerry Kronquist combine their expertise with state-of-the-art technology to deliver exceptional results. Whether you need a filling for a cavity or want to replace old, worn-out fillings, we are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

Sources:

American Dental Association. “Dental Fillings.” ADA, www.ada.org.
Mayo Clinic. “Dental Fillings: What to Expect.” Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.org.
WebMD. “Dental Fillings.” WebMD, www.webmd.com.

DR. JERRY KRONQUIST, DDS At Sunset Dental Group, dentistry is a family affair. They are dedicated to providing expert dental care to the Santa Ana community, Drs. Jerry, Amanda, and Zachary Kronquist bring nearly 60 years of combined experience to their practice. Patients at Sunset Dental benefit from the kind of dental care that only comes at a clinic where dentistry is a family tradition.