Getting a Dental Filling? Here's What You Need to Know

Dentistry on 88 • July 14, 2022

Did you know that around 96 percent of Canadian adults have had a cavity in the past?

The majority of dental visits are for routine cleaning and whitening procedures. However, occasionally cavities and fillings take center stage. Although there are numerous strategies to avoid getting cavities, most people find it challenging to do so.

Are you in need of a tooth filling but are unsure of what to expect during the process? Here, we're sharing everything you need to know about getting dental fillings from your dentist in Bradford, Ontario!

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities do not appear suddenly. Cavity development happens in phases, starting with the surface of your enamel being damaged by germs, which then spreads farther into the tooth.

When sugars on your teeth are not removed by brushing, bacteria feed on the sugar and make acids that erode your enamel, resulting in plaque. Plaque builds a haven for bacteria, which keep eating away at your enamel and ultimately move deeper into the tooth structure to produce a cavity. Check out our dental services we offer for cavity prevention

All About Tooth Decay

Bacteria in your mouth may produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. This results in tooth decay! This may result in a cavity, or small hole, in the tooth.

If there is more severe decay, the cavity may become larger or the entire tooth may decay. If you don't see a dentist in time, dental decay can result in pain, further infection, and even tooth loss.

When a tooth is often exposed to acid—for instance, if you frequently eat or drink sugary foods and beverages—the enamel gets damaged. The result is a mineral loss to the tooth, and this causes a white spot to appear. An early symptom of degradation is this.

At this time, you may contact a dentist to help save the tooth. Fluoride from toothpaste along with minerals from saliva can help reverse the decay.

Why Are Dental Fillings Used?

A filling is used to repair a small hole in a tooth, sometimes known as a cavity. A dentist will first remove the rotten tooth tissue from the cavity before filling it with a filling substance.

Visit your dentist as soon as you can for cavity treatment and filling if you notice any signs of tooth decay, such as a toothache, temperature sensitivity, or mild to severe pain when biting down, as well as any visible holes or pits in your teeth.

Early decay treatment allows your dentist to preserve your oral health while producing the greatest cosmetic outcomes.

What Are Dental Fillings Made Of?

The best and simplest approach to treating a cavity is with a dental filling. Although there are many different kinds of fillings, amalgam and composite are the most popular.

Amalgam fillings are robust and excellent for filling cavities since they are created by mixing numerous metallic components. Glass or quartz can be used to create composite fillings, which can also be customized to match the shade of your tooth. These are among the most well-liked and long-lasting options available today since they mimic the appearance of your actual teeth.

Gold, ceramic, and glass ionomer fillings are a few less typical filling kinds.

Dental Filling Options

Cavities can today be filled with a variety of materials, including silver-colored (amalgam) fillings and tooth-colored (composite) fillings. Because many people prefer tooth-colored fillings and because composite resin materials keep getting better, they are being utilized more frequently to fill teeth.

Crowns are another type of therapy used to restore severely damaged teeth. Crowns can be composed of porcelain, stainless steel, or other metals in addition to gold (usually used on baby teeth). Dental crowns and fillings typically do not last a lifetime.

Dental Filling Procedure

Dental procedures can be scary for some people. However, knowing what to expect may help curb dental anxiety before a dental exam.

An in-office procedure is often required for fillings. Sedation or even general anesthesia may be necessary for children and anyone who experiences extreme dental phobia. A person's dentist will let them know in advance if there is anything they need to do to get ready for the operation.

For the procedure, the gums are given a numbing gel by the dentist. They then inject a topical anesthetic into the gum after this has taken effect.

The dentist then removes the decaying portion of the tooth using a drill or another piece of specialized equipment. The tooth's hole is then filled.

The filling is then polished and may be adjusted such that the person's bite feels natural. The dentist must also use a special light to "cure," or harden, composite filling materials.

Then, you're done! You will likely have a numb mouth and/or lips for a few hours, but it should wear off by the end of the day.

Dental Filling Care Tips

You must take good care of your fillings once you have them. Taking good care of your mouth is essential for maintaining your filling and preventing decay.

After receiving your filling, stay away from foods that are sticky, chewy, or gummy for a few days. It's crucial to practice proper daily dental care, which includes using enamel-repairing toothpaste and flossing once every day.

Get Dental Fillings From Your Dentist In Bradford, Ontario

Tooth decay is treated with dental fillings. A filling can stop more harm from occurring, lessen the chance of pain and infection, and assist maintain general tooth health. After getting a filling, a person could feel a little sensitive or uncomfortable.

Now that you know all about getting dental fillings from your dentist in Bradford, Ontario, it's time to schedule an appointment! Click here for all new patient information.

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How Thumb-Sucking Affects Children's Dental Health

By Dentistry on 88 • March 14, 2025

Thumb-sucking is a natural and common behavior in infants, with about three-quarters of babies sucking their thumbs during their first year of life. This comforting habit helps them self-soothe and feel secure. However, when thumb-sucking continues beyond infancy, it can lead to dental issues that affect your child's long-term oral health. At Dentistry on 88, we understand the concerns parents may have about their child's dental development. In this blog post, we'll explore how thumb-sucking can impact your child's teeth, when it becomes problematic, and provide helpful tips on how to encourage your little one to stop. Let's get started with these dental health tips. What Is Thumb-Sucking? Thumb-sucking is a reflexive action that many babies and young children use to comfort themselves . It's a natural and instinctive behavior that begins in the womb and often continues after birth. Most infants will suck their thumbs to calm down, fall asleep, or simply as a source of comfort when they are feeling stressed or insecure. This habit is perfectly normal during the first few months of life and is a way for children to self-soothe. However, as children grow, thumb-sucking can become a repetitive habit that lasts longer than necessary. If it continues past the age of three, when permanent teeth begin to come in, it can lead to dental problems. Prolonged thumb-sucking can interfere with the proper alignment of the teeth and affect the development of the jaw. While it's normal for infants, parents should monitor their child's thumb-sucking habits as they grow to avoid future dental complications. Dental Problems From Thumb-Sucking The impact of thumb-sucking on teeth can be significant if the habit continues beyond the age of three. As noted above, while it's common for infants and toddlers to engage in this behavior, prolonged thumb-sucking can cause various dental issues as permanent teeth begin to emerge. One of the most common problems is tooth misalignment. Thumb-sucking can push the front teeth outward, leading to an overbite or open bite . It can also affect the shape and growth of the roof of the mouth, which can impact how the teeth come together. In addition to misalignment, thumb-sucking may put pressure on the jaw, which can affect its development. Over time, this can result in bite problems that may require orthodontic treatment. The longer the habit persists, the greater the likelihood of these dental issues, which is why it's important to address thumb-sucking early to avoid complications later on. When Should Thumb-Sucking Stop? Thumb-sucking should ideally stop by the time a child reaches the age of three. By this age, most children have started to develop their permanent teeth , which makes it a crucial time to address the habit. If thumb-sucking continues past this stage, it can begin to interfere with the growth and alignment of the teeth and jaw. While some children may naturally stop on their own, others may need encouragement or strategies to help break the habit. If thumb-sucking continues into the early school years, it can lead to more noticeable dental problems that may require orthodontic treatment later. Parents should watch for signs that the habit is becoming more than just a temporary comfort and consider intervening if necessary. If you're concerned about your child's thumb-sucking, it's a good idea to discuss it with your dentist . Our team can provide guidance on how to help your child stop before it affects their oral health. Tips for Breaking the Habit Breaking the habit of thumb-sucking can take time and patience, but with the right approach, it's possible. One effective method is using positive reinforcement. Encouraging your child with praise and rewards for not sucking their thumb can help motivate them to stop. Gentle reminders are also important, so if you notice your child sucking their thumb, calmly remind them to stop. You should avoid using punishment, as it may cause stress or anxiety, which could make the habit harder to break. Instead, try to redirect their attention to something else. Offering alternatives is another strategy. Thumb-sucking is often a way for children to self-soothe, so providing a soft blanket, stuffed animal, or another comforting item can help reduce the need for thumb-sucking. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can also help. Try replacing thumb-sucking with activities like reading a book or listening to soothing music before bed. If the habit continues, it may be time to consult your dentist. As noted above, at Dentistry on 88, we can offer guidance and support to help break the habit before it affects your child's dental health. With patience and consistency, you can help your child stop thumb-sucking and maintain a healthy smile . How We Can Help at Dentistry on 88 Here at Dentistry on 88 , we understand how challenging it can be for both parents and children when it comes to breaking the thumb-sucking habit. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. If you're concerned about your child's dental health, we offer comprehensive evaluations to assess any potential effects thumb-sucking may have on their teeth and jaw development. Dr. Virani and our experienced team can provide personalized advice and strategies tailored to your child's needs. We'll help you understand the impact of prolonged thumb-sucking and offer recommendations to prevent dental issues down the road. If necessary, we can also discuss gentle interventions or referrals to specialists who can further assist with breaking the habit. Our goal is to ensure your child's smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come. Maintain Oral Hygiene for Kids To sum up, it's important to take steps to prevent thumb-sucking before it affects your child's dental health. Early intervention can help avoid long-term issues with teeth and jaw development. Our team at Dentistry on 88 is dedicated to supporting parents in ensuring the best possible care for their child's smile. If you're concerned about thumb-sucking or have questions about your child's oral health, schedule an appointment with us . Our team is here to provide expert advice and guidance on all aspects of children's oral care.