Dental fillings are common dental procedures performed worldwide. They are used to treat tooth decay and restore the functionality of damaged teeth. Despite their widespread use, there is still a lot of misinformation about dental fillings Bronx. Whether you are considering getting a tooth filling or are curious about the topic, these facts will provide the information you need to make informed decisions about your oral health.
Fiction: Dental fillings are painful
Fact: Dental fillings are not painful. The area around the tooth being treated will be numbed before the procedure, so you should not feel any pain. Some people may experience discomfort during the procedure, but it should not be painful. After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days, but this should go away on its own.
Fiction: Dental fillings contain mercury
Fact: Some dental fillings contain mercury, but the amount is very small, and the filling is safe. The type of filling that contains mercury is called a Silver Amalgam filling. It is made up of a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. The mercury in the filling is chemically bonded to the other metals and is safe. As per the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Silver Amalgam fillings are effective and safe.
Fiction: Dental fillings last forever
Fact: Dental fillings do not last forever. The lifespan of a filling depends on several factors, including the size and location of the filling, the material used, and how well you take care of your teeth, such as brushing and flossing at least twice a day and avoiding sugary foods. On average, a filling will last between five and fifteen years. If a filling becomes cracked, loose, or falls out, it will need to be replaced.
Fiction: Dental fillings weaken teeth
Fact: Dental fillings help to strengthen teeth caused by decay. When a tooth decays, it becomes weaker and more prone to breakage. A filling helps restore the tooth’s strength and function.
Fiction: Dental fillings are only necessary if you have pain
Fact: Tooth decay can be present without any symptoms. If left untreated, the decay can progress and cause pain, infection, and tooth loss. Regular dental check-ups are important to catch decay early and prevent more serious problems from developing.
Fiction: You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with a filling
Fact: Dental fillings are designed to withstand the pressure of chewing and should not break or fall out. However, maintain good oral hygiene and avoid chewing hard objects such as ice or hard candy, which can damage your teeth and fillings.
Fiction: Dental fillings can cause allergic reactions
Fact: It is very rare for dental fillings to cause allergic reactions. The materials used in fillings are well-tolerated by the body. In some rare cases, a person may be allergic to one of the materials used in a filling, but this is not a common occurrence.
If you have questions or concerns about dental fillings, speak to your dentist at Advanced Dental Care of Riverdale to provide more information about your dental health.