Fillings

Fillings are simply named because they “fill” a hole in a tooth.  If plaque and tartar are allowed to remain on teeth for extended periods of time, bacteria will develop and cause tooth decay.  The damage caused by tooth decay is called a cavity. 

The smallest of cavities should be removed and filled as soon as possible to prevent it from causing a larger cavity.  Larger cavities require bigger fillings, of course, but take longer to repair and can lead to more discomfort and expense. 

Immediate repair is also required to keep the bacteria from entering other areas of the body and spreading. 

A filling is a relatively simple procedure that begins with numbing the area around the tooth being repaired.  The anesthetic injection should feel more like a small pinching sensation after a bit of numbing gel is applied to the gums. 

When the tooth is entirely numb, the area of decay is removed, and the filling material is placed in the resulting defect (hole).  The filling will restore the tooth to normal function and shape. 

Depending on the type of material used for the filling, it may be invisible to the naked eye.  Some fillings are made of a material that can be color-matched to the tooth. 

Call Dr. Kim’s office today at 410-465-6262 for an examination.