As much as we try to maintain good oral hygiene, sometimes cavities happen. The good news is that dental fillings can help to prevent further damage and preserve the tooth. Let’s take a look at the basics of dental fillings, Dr. Adrianne Koster’s approach when using a filling as the solution for a cavity, and how to maintain your fillings to ensure they stay in good condition.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a single or combination of materials used to restore teeth damaged by decay or trauma. They can also be used to repair teeth worn down over time. Fillings are typically made of one of several materials, including amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, or gold.
Dr. Koster’s Approach to Dental Fillings
At Locust Valley Dentists, Dr. Adrianne Koster takes a patient-centered approach to dental fillings. She begins by thoroughly examining the affected tooth to determine the extent of the damage. Depending on the severity of the cavity, Dr. Koster may recommend a specific type of filling material.
Amalgam fillings were dark metal filling material of the past, and not often used. Composite resin fillings are an aesthetically pleasing option because they can be color-matched to the natural tooth. Porcelain and gold fillings are used for larger cavities that need more strength to support the tooth.
Once the filling material has been chosen, Dr. Koster will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience. She will then remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area thoroughly. The filling material is then placed in the tooth and shaped to fit appropriately.
After the filling is installed, Dr. Koster will check the patient’s bite to ensure it is comfortable and functioning correctly. As small number of patients may experience some post- operative sensitivity for a few days after the filling is placed, but this is normal and should subside relatively quickly.
Maintaining Your Dental Fillings
Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining dental fillings. Patients should brush and floss regularly and attend regular dental check-ups to ensure the teeth are functioning correctly.
Schedule A Consultation
At Locust Valley Dentists, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy and beautiful smile. We work with each patient individually to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs and goals.
If you suspect that you have a cavity or are having another issue with your teeth, don’t hesitate to contact Locust Valley Dentists. Dr. Adrianne Koster and her team are committed to providing compassionate care to each patient. To schedule an appointment today, call our Locust Valley office at (516) 759-2288 or use our online scheduling form.
Her colleagues describe her as a perfectionist with an unparalleled eye for detail. Her patients describe her as warm, caring, and attentive. It’s always Dr. Koster’s goal to provide outstanding treatment for her patients as well as to educate them on their own dental health while exploring all treatment options.