Dental Fillings in Burnaby

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are an important way to keep the teeth strong and healthy. Small holes (cavities) in the teeth can form over time and with wear. When bacteria enter the tooth through these holes, decay and even infection can set in, leading to more serious complications. Dental fillings prevent bacteria from entering the tooth, sealing it and resecuring it.

How Dental Fillings Are Placed

First, your dentist will make sure you are comfortable and provide you with a local anesthetic to numb the area around your tooth. Once the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will clear out the area around the cavity with a drill to remove any decay, clean it out to ensure no bacteria is trapped inside the tooth, and place the filling material in the cavity. Once shaped and secure, you’ll be able to eat and drink normally as soon as the anesthetic wears off.

Amalgam or Composite Fillings?

Our dental clinic offers both amalgam and composite fillings. Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, resulting in a silver-coloured filling. These fillings are usually placed on the top arch of the teeth because they are more visible than composite fillings. Composite fillings are created from a resin material that can be colour-matched to the natural tooth. For this reason, many people will select composite fillings for the lower arch of teeth or areas where the filling will be more visible.