How Long Does a Tooth Filling Last?

/in , /by

A tooth filling in Bradenton, FL is a fairly basic dental procedure, but it’s also more complicated than, say, a standard cleaning. If you’re wondering how long the material lasts and whether you’ll have to have the service again in a few years, we’ll look at the facts.

What’s the Lifespan of a Filling?

Fillings can last anywhere from a few years to a few decades, and this kind of range may not always be advertised by your dentist in Bradenton, FL. The lifespan of a filling depends on the filling material, but it also depends on the technique and the expertise of the dentist who fills your tooth.

Which Material Lasts the Longest?

Gold is usually the most durable material, lasting around 20 years. Of course, porcelain and ceramic fillings are the preferred option because they seamlessly blend with the rest of your teeth. These materials can last up to 15 years or more with meticulous care. Amalgam (silver) can also last for around 15 years, though again, these fillings are more noticeable if you’re filling your front teeth.

Dental Expertise

Fillings may have been around for centuries, but the techniques have changed considerably. Today, lasers help dentists fill teeth by precisely targeting the decayed portion of the tooth. This preserves as much of your tooth as possible, making it stronger in the long run. Once the decayed portion has been removed, the dentist will prepare the tooth for the filling before bonding the material.

If you’re ready to take action on a pesky filling or you’re concerned that one of your fillings may need replacement, contact Laser Dentistry Online today to learn more about how we use technology to improve care for our patients.

 Should I Get a Laser Filling?

/in , /by

A laser filling can be a confusing term for some patients. When lasers are light, how can you use light to fill in a tooth? Here, we’ll look at what a laser filling in Bradenton, FL is, and whether it’s worth it to get one.

What Is a Laser Filling?

A laser filling in Bradenton, FL is a filling that first uses a laser to remove the decayed portion of your teeth.

Are Laser Fillings Worth It?

Because lasers are more precise than drills, they tend to be safer for patients. It reduces the odds of accidental damage. Another perk is that laser fillings are usually more comfortable, meaning there’s less bleeding and faster healing. Plus, there’s less risk of infection.

Understanding Laser Fillings

If you’re thinking to yourself that traditional fillings aren’t all that bad, you make a fair point. As a general rule, drilling and filling is a common service without a lot of risk.

However, consider that when a dentist drills out the decaying portion of your tooth, it’s possible that they’ll damage the healthy portion — and it may take some time for you to see the effects of this mistake. What’s more, you might not even make the connection between further decay and the original cavity.

State-of-the-art equipment may sound great on a marketing page, but the actual value comes down to who uses it and how they manipulate it. If you want to learn more about laser technology and why some dentists in Bradenton, FL invest in certain devices, contact Laser Dentistry Online today to learn more about how we select our equipment and how we use it for far more than just cavities.