Toothaches and cavities may not be glamorous, but thanks to tooth-coloured fillings in North York, fixing them is easier and more comfortable than ever. At Emery Village Dental, we believe that understanding your dental treatment helps make it less stressful, and that’s especially true for something as common as dental fillings. Whether this is your first cavity or your tenth, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your filling appointment.
Understanding Dental Fillings: What Are They and Why Do I Need One?
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, minor fractures, or wear. When plaque and bacteria eat away at your enamel, a cavity forms. If left untreated, that cavity can grow larger, cause pain, or even lead to infection requiring more invasive procedures like a root canal.
By catching cavities early during routine exams, we can treat them with a simple dental filling, saving your tooth structure and avoiding future complications. That’s why staying up to date with your check-ups at Emery Village Dental is one of the smartest things you can do for your smile.
How Regular Dental Exams Help Detect Cavities Early
Cavities can often form without pain or visible signs in the early stages. At your regular dental exam, we use tools like x-rays and visual inspection to detect areas of decay before they worsen.
When caught early, we can restore your tooth with a straightforward filling. But if decay spreads too deep, it could reach the pulp of the tooth. This could lead to sensitivity, infection, and the need for a root canal. So we recommend that you please not skip dental appointments!
Types of Fillings Used at Emery Village Dental
At Emery Village Dental, we use composite (tooth-coloured) fillings. These fillings are made from a strong resin material that blends seamlessly with your natural tooth, offering both strength and aesthetics.
We choose composite fillings because they:
- Match your natural tooth colour
- Bond directly to the tooth for added strength
- Require less removal of healthy tooth structure
- Are mercury-free and safe for all ages
Whether the cavity is in a front tooth or tucked away in the back, our tooth-coloured fillings will restore your tooth while keeping your smile looking natural and healthy.
The Dental Filling Procedure: Step-by-Step
Nervous about your appointment? Here’s what the process looks like:
1. Numbing the Area
We start by gently applying a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Some patients feel only slight pressure or vibration. There’s no need to worry about the dreaded “drill” sensation.
2. Removing the Decay
Using a dental drill or laser, we carefully remove the decayed part of the tooth. We take great care to keep you comfortable, using suction and water spray to keep the area clean and cool.
3. Preparing the Tooth
Once the decay is gone, we shape the space to make room for the filling. This step is important to make sure the material bonds securely and fits just right.
4. Applying the Filling Material
For composite fillings, we apply the material in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special curing light. After building up the filling, we shape it to match your natural bite.
5. Polishing and Finishing
Finally, we polish the filling for a smooth surface. This step helps prevent staining, makes it feel natural, and ensures it blends with the rest of your tooth.
What to Expect During and Immediately After Your Filling
After your appointment, your mouth may feel numb for a few hours. Avoid chewing on that side until the numbness wears off to prevent biting your tongue or cheek.
You might experience some mild sensitivity to pressure or temperature for a day or two. This is completely normal and should fade quickly. If it doesn’t, or if your bite feels off, just give us a call and we’ll adjust it.
Caring for Your New Dental Filling: Tips for Longevity
To keep your new filling in great shape for years to come, follow these simple care tips:
- Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
- Visit Emery Village Dental every six months for cleanings and checkups.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens.
- Limit sticky, sugary snacks that can increase decay risk.
While dental fillings are long-lasting, they aren’t permanent. With good care, composite fillings can last 7–10 years or more.
When to Call the Dentist After a Filling
Sometimes, a filling may need a little follow-up attention. Call us if you experience:
- Persistent sensitivity that doesn’t fade
- Sharp pain when biting or chewing
- A filling that feels too high or uneven
- Any cracking, chipping, or dislodgement
We’ll get you in quickly to fix the issue and keep your tooth protected.
Need a Dental Filling in North York? We’ve Got You Covered
At Emery Village Dental, we combine experience, technology, and compassion to make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our tooth-coloured fillings are designed to restore your smile while keeping it natural and healthy.
If you suspect a cavity or are due for a checkup, book your visit today. Catching issues early can save time, money, and your beautiful smile. Let’s keep those teeth shining!
