Dental Fillings in Doncaster
If you or a family member develops a cavity, the team at Shoppingtown Dental in Doncaster is available to provide prompt treatment to protect your smile. We choose tooth-coloured composite resin fillings because they are durable and provide a natural-looking tooth repair that is virtually undetectable.
How Does a Cavity Develop?
Also known as caries, a cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth. The process begins with a buildup of bacteria-filled plaque and tartar on your teeth. These bacteria feed on sugars and starches in the foods and drinks you consume, producing acids that bathe your teeth.
As this process is repeated throughout your day, the acid gradually demineralises (softens) the hard layer of tooth enamel, creating tiny openings or holes. Over time, the continued acid attacks damage the tooth structure, creating a cavity requiring a dental filling.
Without prompt treatment from your dentist in Doncaster, decay penetrates deep into the tooth until it reaches the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels and causes a toothache.
How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?
You may not realise your tooth is decayed until you develop a toothache, so routine checks and cleans are crucial to maintaining a healthy smile. However, some other symptoms that may indicate you have a cavity include the following:
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Visible holes in the tooth surface
- Pain when biting down
- Brown or black spots on your teeth
- Pain or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
Why Our Dentists Recommend Composite Fillings
Our dentists in Doncaster offer tooth-coloured composite resin for fillings because the material is durable and helps us preserve healthy tooth structure. Aesthetically, the composite resin is appealing because we match it to your natural tooth shade for seamless repair. We also use this material for dental bonding, a process that corrects minor aesthetic issues like chipped or cracked teeth.
Dental fillings are also an excellent choice to repair cavities because we can preserve healthy tooth structure. When preparing a tooth for this filling, our dentists remove only the decayed portion, leaving the rest of the structure intact.
The Process for Getting a Tooth Filling
First, our dentists in Doncaster will evaluate the tooth and take diagnostic x-rays as needed. Before filling the tooth, we numb the area to ensure a pain-free experience. Next, we carefully remove the decay, apply a bonding liquid, and place the soft composite resin material in the tooth.
With expertise and an eye for detail, our dentists carefully shape the material to match your tooth’s contours. The final step is to harden the composite with a curing light. By maintaining excellent oral health, including oral hygiene and routine check-ups and cleans, your filling can last approximately 5–7 years.
Do You Have a Cavity and Need a Tooth Filling?
If you notice a spot on your tooth or have a toothache and think you need a filling, our dentists in Doncaster are ready to help you. We invite you to contact Shoppingtown Dental so we can provide the prompt treatment you need.