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What You Should Know About Dental Fillings

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What is a dental filling?

A dental filling is a dental restoration that can repair a tooth that has decay. The filling will restore the tooth’s proper shape and function. Our dentists will remove the decayed area of the tooth and then fill the area with the dental filling material.

 

How do I know if I need a dental filling?

The tried and true method for determining if you need a dental filling is visiting New Hampshire Center for Comprehensive Dentistry often. During your six-month checkups, the surfaces of each tooth will be examined. If anything looks abnormal, our dentists will examine it with special instruments. Depending on your oral health needs, X-rays may also be taken.

 

How is a dental filling placed?

When our dentists place a dental filling in Amherst, New Hampshire, local anesthesia is used to numb the area first. The tooth decay is then removed. The area is then cleaned of debris and bacteria. Our dentists will then place the dental filling. If a composite filling, which is also called a tooth-colored filling, is used, it is placed in layers. After each layer is placed, it is cured with a special light. Once all of the layers are in place, the final filling is shaped and polished.

 

What should I expect after treatment?

Sometimes, tooth sensitivity is present after a dental filling is placed. The most common cause of tooth sensitivity after a dental filling is placed is that the dental filling is too high. Call our office to have the height of the filling reduced. If your dental filling is not too high, the tooth sensitivity should resolve in one to two weeks. Contact our office if it persists.

We invite you to contact our dental office at 603-672-6546 today to learn more and to schedule your next visit.