A New Patient's Guide to Tooth Fillings in Ontario: From Diagnosis to a Healthy Smile

Welcome to Santa Martha Dental, where your journey to a healthier, more confident smile begins. If you're new to the world of dental fillings, you're in the right place. Tooth fillings are a common and effective treatment for cavities and tooth decay, helping restore the integrity and appearance of your teeth. 

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about tooth fillings, from diagnosis to aftercare, ensuring you're well-informed and comfortable every step of the way. Let's dive into the details that will lead you to a healthier smile!

Understanding the Need for Tooth Fillings

The first step in the journey to a healthier smile is understanding why tooth fillings might be necessary. Cavities are a result of tooth decay, which can occur due to various reasons, including poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, and consuming sugary drinks. 

At Santa Martha Dental, Dr. Arturo Perez will conduct a thorough examination to determine if you need a filling. Key indicators include:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
• Pain when biting down

Recognizing these signs early can prevent further damage and ensure a quick, effective treatment.

The Tooth Filling Process

Once it's determined that a filling is necessary, understanding the process can alleviate any anxiety you might have. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

• Preparation: The area around the affected tooth is numbed to ensure comfort during the procedure.
• Decay Removal: Dr. Perez will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean it up.
• Filling Placement: The newly-prepared cavity is filled with a material that matches the color and texture of your natural teeth.
• Shaping and Polishing: The filling is shaped and polished to fit seamlessly with your bite.

This process is typically quick and painless, allowing you to resume your daily activities right away.

Types of Filling Materials

Choosing the right filling material is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. At Santa Martha Dental, we primarily use composite resin fillings to ensure lifelike results.

• Composite Resins: Made from a mixture of resin and crushed glass particles, these are tooth-colored fillings that blend well with your natural teeth. They are ideal for visible areas.
• Amalgam Fillings: Known for their durability, these fillings have a silvery appearance. While they look less natural, they are a great choice for filling teeth in the back of the mouth due to their strength. 

Dr. Perez will help you choose the best option based on your specific needs and preferences.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Once your filling is in place, proper care is essential to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips to maintain your new filling:

• Brush and floss regularly to prevent further decay.
• Avoid hard foods that can damage the filling.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your filling.

Following these guidelines will help you maintain a healthy smile and prolong the life of your filling.

Schedule Your Appointment in Ontario Today!

Ready to take the next step toward a healthier smile? At Santa Martha Dental in Ontario, CA, Dr. Arturo Perez and our dedicated team are here to provide you with exceptional dental care. Whether you're experiencing symptoms of a cavity or simply want to ensure your oral health is in top condition, we're here to help. Don't wait any longer. Call us today at (909) 933-3524 to schedule your appointment and start your journey to a healthier, more confident smile!