Tooth decay and damage are common concerns that can affect anyone, and at Bryon Haley, DDS PA in Kansas City, KS, we offer effective solutions like tooth fillings to repair cavities and restore your teeth's health and function. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality care in a comfortable and welcoming environment, ensuring your smile remains healthy and strong.
There are several reasons why you may need a tooth filling:
Cavities are the most common reason for getting a filling. Cavities are holes in your teeth caused by tooth decay, which occurs when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode your tooth enamel. To stop the decay from progressing, our dentist in Kansas City, KS will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with a dental filling.
Teeth can crack or break due to various reasons, such as injury, biting down on something hard, or grinding your teeth. A filling can be used to repair the damage and restore the tooth’s structure.
Habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) or nail biting can wear down your teeth over time. Fillings can rebuild the worn areas of your teeth, protecting them from further damage and restoring their appearance and function.
It’s important to be aware of the signs that you might need a filling. These can include:
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments. During the first visit, we will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the tooth will be taken to create a custom crown that fits perfectly with your bite. A temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made. At your second appointment, the permanent crown will be fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place.
The procedure for a dental bridge also involves multiple visits. Initially, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to allow the crowns to fit over them. Impressions of your teeth are taken to create the bridge, which includes the crowns and the artificial teeth. You will wear a temporary bridge while your permanent one is being fabricated. At the next appointment, the permanent bridge will be adjusted for fit and comfort and then securely bonded to the abutment teeth.
Before starting the procedure, our dentist in Kansas City, KS will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the treatment.
Once the area is numb, our dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth using specialized dental instruments. This step is crucial for preventing further decay and preparing the tooth for the filling.
After removing the decay, the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris or bacteria. The chosen filling material will then be carefully applied to the prepared area and shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth.
Finally, our dentist will check your bite to ensure that the filling aligns comfortably with your other teeth. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure a proper fit and function.
Over time, dental fillings can wear down, crack, or become damaged. Signs that you may need a new filling include:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to visit our dentist in Kansas City, KS for an evaluation. Replacing a worn or damaged filling can prevent further decay and protect your tooth from additional problems.
Caring for your dental fillings is similar to caring for your natural teeth:
With proper care, dental fillings can last many years, helping to maintain the health and function of your teeth.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of tooth decay or damage, or if it’s time to replace an old filling, the team at Bryon Haley, DDS PA is here to help.
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