Tag Archives: Plano tooth-colored fillings

I need cavities filled, but I’m afraid of the dentist

I have 3 cavities that need to be filled. I have avoided making the appointment to get the work done because I hate going to the dentist. What is the process for filling the cavities? Is a needle involved? Thanks. Cherise

Cherise – Before your cavities are filled, your teeth and gums are numbed to prevent you from experiencing pain during the procedure. But a topical anesthetic will be applied to prevent you from feeling the pain of the injection.

When your teeth and gums are numb, the decay in the tooth is removed. Your tooth will be rinsed to remove any debris around it. The tooth will be prepared and filling will be placed in it. You can get tooth-colored fillings that blend in naturally with your teeth. The numbness in your mouth will gradually diminish within several hours after the appointment.

If you are particularly anxious, you can find a dentist who provides sedation dentistry for anxious patients. Sedation dentistry relaxes you so that you can have a productive dental appointment.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

My dentist put a silver filling back in my tooth but I wanted white

I went to the dentist for a filling. I wanted an old silver filling removed and replaced with a white filling. When I got home, I saw they put a silver filling back in my tooth. I don’t know why I didn’t look in a mirror before I left or ask to look in their mirror. This is a side tooth and it shows the dark filling when I smile. It looks like a cavity. That’s why I asked to have it replaced. Now I have to go back and have it drilled out so it can be replaced with a white filling. What should I do to make sure the dentist gets it right this time? – Morena

Morena – You should definitely tell your dentist about your concern. Consider asking your dentist if he or she uses white composite fillings at all. It could be that your dentist doesn’t use them, or prefers amalgam fillings. You might also ask if filling your tooth with amalgam was intentional.

Depending on the answer you receive, you may need to find a dentist who doesn’t use amalgam fillings. Dentist’s websites often advertise white fillings, tooth-colored fillings, composite fillings, or mercury-free fillings. A cosmetic dentist will ensure that you receive a natural-looking filling that blends in with your tooth.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.