Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are a common and effective treatment for restoring teeth affected by decay, cavities, or minor cracks. Dr. Karen Bai offers various filling materials to meet your specific needs.
Why You Need a Dental Filling
Dental fillings are a common treatment for restoring teeth affected by decay, cavities, or minor cracks. They help to restore the tooth's shape and functionality, preventing further damage and preserving your oral health. Here's why you may need a dental filling:
Tooth Decay
If a cavity has formed due to tooth decay, a filling can seal off the area, preventing further bacterial invasion.
Cracks or Fractures
Teeth that are cracked due to trauma or pressure from chewing can be treated with a filling to restore strength and prevent further damage.
Worn-Out Fillings
If your old fillings are worn down or leaking, new fillings can be placed to maintain your tooth's integrity and avoid complications.
Sensitivity
If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures in a specific area of your tooth, it may be a sign of decay that can be treated with a filling.
Types of Dental Fillings
Dr. Karen Bai offers various filling materials to meet your specific needs and preferences.
Composite Resin Fillings
A tooth-colored option that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. These fillings are ideal for treating cavities in the front teeth or visible areas, offering a discreet solution that is both functional and aesthetic.
- Natural appearance
- Bonds well to tooth structure
- Ideal for front teeth
Amalgam Fillings
A durable, silver-colored filling often used for back teeth that endure more pressure. Amalgam fillings are known for their strength and durability, making them a cost-effective option for posterior teeth.
- Extremely durable
- Cost-effective
- Ideal for back teeth
Ceramic Fillings
Made of porcelain, these fillings are durable and aesthetic, ideal for larger cavities or visible areas. Ceramic fillings offer both durability and aesthetic appeal with an almost perfect color match.
- Excellent color match
- Highly durable
- Stain resistant
Gold Fillings
These are strong, durable, and long-lasting, though less common due to their higher cost and appearance. Gold fillings are known for their exceptional strength and longevity.
- Longest lasting
- Biocompatible
- Premium option
The Process of Getting a Dental Filling
Dr. Karen Bai follows a comprehensive process to ensure your filling is placed safely and effectively.
Initial Consultation
During your visit to Dr. Karen Bai, she will examine your teeth using X-rays and a visual check to identify cavities or areas that need filling. Depending on the size and location of the cavity, she will determine the best material and treatment plan for you.
Tooth Preparation
After the area is numbed with a local anesthetic, Dr. Bai will clean the cavity by removing decayed tissue and any debris. For larger cavities, the surrounding area may also be shaped to ensure the filling fits securely.
Filling Placement
Once the cavity is prepared, Dr. Bai will place the filling material into the cavity. There are several types of fillings available to meet your specific needs.
Shaping and Polishing
After the filling material is placed, it will be shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. Dr. Bai will ensure that the filling doesn't interfere with your bite and will polish the filling for a smooth and comfortable finish.
Final Adjustments
Once the filling is set, Dr. Bai will check your bite to ensure that everything aligns properly. Any necessary adjustments will be made at this point, ensuring that the filling feels natural and comfortable.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you're dealing with tooth decay or experiencing tooth sensitivity, schedule a consultation with Dr. Karen Bai today. She'll provide a comprehensive examination and discuss the best filling options tailored to your needs.