Dental Fillings in College Station, TX
Over time, cavities can progress and cause damage to teeth. If you have tooth decay creating tooth sensitivity or other problems, you may be a good candidate for a dental filling. Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative treatment options to help repair or fix a tooth damaged by decay. Contact us to learn more about dental fillings at Hooks Family Dentistry!
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Signs You May Need a Dental Filling
Most cavities take several months to form, which is why routine visits to our office play an important role in preventive dental care. During routine visits, Dr. Hooks and our team can look for signs of decay and work with you to determine whether fillings or crowns are needed. If you’re uncertain you have a cavity, here are a few signs and symptoms that can alert you that you may have one that can benefit from a filling.
- Tooth sensitivity
- Consistent toothache
- Visible hole in the tooth
- Dark spots on the tooth
- Flossing string tears
How long do dental fillings last?
The amount of time a filling lasts will depend on the material, location of the tooth, and other factors. At Hooks Family Dentistry, we offer tooth-colored fillings to blend in with your natural smile! Tooth-colored fillings are also known as composite fillings, which are durable and can withstand pressure from chewing and speaking. With good care, dental fillings will last around five to fifteen years.
How do I care for a dental filling?
After receiving your dental filling, it’s important to be mindful of the tooth as it heals. Fillings are a great solution to repair a damaged tooth. A tooth with a filling requires the same care as your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day and visit our friendly team for routine checkups and cleanings so we can keep an eye on the condition of your filling and prevent other tooth decay from developing!
When can I eat or drink after getting a tooth-colored filling?
Tooth-colored composite fillings harden immediately under a special curing light, so you can generally eat and drink shortly after your appointment. However, local anesthetic often takes a little while to wear off, so we recommend waiting until you regain feeling in your face to avoid accidentally biting your cheek, lip, or tongue. It’s also a good idea to avoid very hard, sticky, or extremely hot foods for the first day or two while your bite adjusts.
Do you replace old silver amalgam fillings with composite fillings?
Many patients choose to replace older silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored composite restorations. Common reasons include improving the appearance of the smile, replacing worn or damaged fillings, or addressing decay that has developed around an existing restoration. During your exam, we can evaluate the condition of your current fillings and determine whether replacement is recommended for cosmetic or functional reasons.
Can cavities be reversed?
Very early stages of tooth decay, sometimes called demineralization, can often be stopped or reversed before a cavity fully forms. Fluoride treatments, improved oral hygiene, dietary changes, and regular preventive care can help strengthen enamel and repair minor damage. Once decay creates a physical hole in the tooth, however, it cannot heal on its own and will typically require treatment to restore the tooth and prevent the cavity from worsening.
Your Restorative Dentist in College Station
As a trusted dentist in College Station, Dr. Hooks is committed to helping patients maintain healthy, comfortable smiles with conservative restorative care. Whether you’re dealing with a new cavity or need to replace an older filling, our team uses durable, natural-looking materials to restore your tooth while preserving as much healthy structure as possible. We focus on providing efficient, comfortable treatment that helps protect your long-term oral health.
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