GETTING A FILLING FOR A CAVITY

By Robert Madden

Introduction

Dr. Robert Madden, who holds DDS and MBA degrees, dedicates himself to providing quality dental services in the Denver area of Colorado. At Southwest Family Dentistry, Dr. Robert Madden performs a variety of services, including treatment for cavities.

Cavities are a common problem, with over three-quarters of individuals getting one by the time the turn seventeen. They are typically treated with a dental filling. This involves sealing a hole in the tooth caused by decay. The filling works to prevent the decay from becoming worse and leading to more advanced problems.

Filling for a Cavity

If a cavity is left untreated, for example, a root canal may eventually be necessary.

Before giving a patient a filling, a dentist will typically evaluate the extent of the decay by taking an X-ray of the affected area and reviewing the image. Then he or she will remove the decayed area and prepare the tooth for the filling. For the filling itself, a variety of materials might be used. For example, composite and porcelain can create a more natural-looking appearance. Other materials, such as gold or material that is silver in color, might also be used.