*This is a collaborative post.
No one likes knowing that they have a problem with their teeth. You do your best to take care of them, clean them twice a day and avoid too much sugar in your food and drinks. But despite your best efforts, you have developed a toothache or, worse, have been told by your dentist you have a hole in one of your teeth. This is where you may require a filling to repair the damage. Here is what you need to do to prepare for your first filling.
What is a filling used for?
A filling is used to patch up any wear and tear on your teeth that is caused by tooth decay. This can include small chips on the tooth or even holes that have been created from sugary drinks, foods and a lack of dental care. Our teeth are naturally very good at repairing themselves but if you do require a filling, you can be comforted by the idea that the procedure is very quick and is practically painless with an anaesthetic.
Ask the right questions
No matter whether you go to see a dentist in Balham or go to a private dentist London, it is always important to ask your dentist questions about how they conduct their procedure. Each dental clinic is different and they may conduct different treatments to see whether or not you need a filling. This includes observation, x-rays and speaking about the different types of material you may want to have as a filling. This includes ceramic, amalgam, silver and gold. You may feel a little nervous about what colour to choose, but if you don’t want to be reminded of the filling in the future ask for a filling that matches your tooth colour, and the dentist will let you know what they
can do.
Historical Health Records
One of the most important things you can do before your filling is to let your dental clinic know about any previous health issues. Your dentist will be performing a small procedure but they will still need to know about any changes to your health. Make sure that you have an up-to-date copy of your medical conditions, though you may also be asked to fill out a health form once you reach your dental clinic. This will allow your dentist to make an informed decision about whether or not you should be able to take specific medications after the procedure. They will also need to know
whether or not you are a smoker or are pregnant.
Keep your mouth clean
If you are suffering from a toothache and you are preparing yourself for a filling, the most important thing you need to do is keep your mouth clean. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks that may make your toothache worse. Instead, brush twice a day and floss. That way you can make sure that any decay remains manageable until your dental appointment.
Pain Relief
Sometimes tooth decay can cause quite a bit of pain. This can be very unfortunate when you have to wait quite a while for a dentist appointment. If you find that you are suffering from toothache then do not be afraid to take 1-2 painkillers during the day, depending on how bad the pain is. This will make sure that you can continue with your daily life until your appointment comes.
*This is a collaborative post.
I was in my late 20’s before needing a filling! Although in those days it was much easier to find a nhs dentist