Dental filling is a procedure used to treat a cavity or to repair cracked or broken teeth. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the area where the decayed material was removed. Dental fillings are also used to treat teeth that have been worn down from misuse.

You will need a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to be filled before the dental filling procedure. Your dentist will drill the decayed area with a drill, air abrasion instrument or by laser, depending on the individual’s choice.

Now, your dentist will test the area to determine if all the decay has been removed. Then he or she will clean the cavity of bacteria and debris to prepare the area for filling. If the decay is near the root, you may need to put in a liner made of glass ionomer, or composite resin to protect the nerve. After the filling is in, your dentist will finish and use teeth whitening.

You will need to maintain a post-dental filling care. You should follow good oral hygiene by using a fluoride toothpaste, flossing and anti-bacterial mouthwash. Visit a dental clinic periodically.
Dental filling complications can be tooth pain and sensitivity, filling allergies and deteriorating fillings.