Dental fillings are a common solution for restoring the health and function of a tooth that has been damaged by decay, wear, or minor fractures. They are a fundamental part of dental care, aimed at preserving your natural teeth and preventing further damage. In this blog, we’ll explore what dental fillings are, the different types available, and what to expect during the procedure.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are materials used to fill cavities or repair damaged teeth. The primary purpose of a dental filling is to restore the shape, function, and integrity of a tooth that has been compromised by decay or minor damage. Fillings can also help prevent further decay by closing off spaces where bacteria can enter.
When Do You Need a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is typically needed when:
- Cavities: The most common reason for a dental filling is a cavity caused by tooth decay. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more severe dental issues, including toothache, infection, and tooth loss.
- Cracked or Broken Teeth: Fillings can also be used to repair minor fractures or cracks in teeth, which can result from trauma, grinding, or other forms of wear.
- Worn Down Teeth: Teeth that have been worn down from habits like nail-biting or teeth grinding (bruxism) may require fillings to restore their shape and function.
Types of Dental Fillings
Several materials can be used for dental fillings, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common types:
- Amalgam Fillings:
- Material: Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper.
- Advantages: Highly durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for back teeth where the forces of chewing are greatest. They are also cost-effective.
- Disadvantages: Not aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic color, which is visible when you smile or speak. They can also expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially causing cracks in the tooth over time.
- Composite Fillings:
- Material: Made from a tooth-colored resin that can be closely matched to the natural color of your teeth.
- Advantages: Aesthetically pleasing as they blend in with the natural color of the teeth. They also bond directly to the tooth, providing additional support.
- Disadvantages: Less durable than amalgam fillings, especially for larger cavities in back teeth. They may also discolor over time and can be more expensive than amalgam fillings.
- Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain):
- Material: Made from porcelain, which is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
- Advantages: Highly resistant to staining and can be color-matched to your natural teeth. They are also more durable than composite fillings.
- Disadvantages: More expensive than other types of fillings and may require more than one dental visit to place.
- Gold Fillings:
- Material: Made from a gold alloy.
- Advantages: Extremely durable and long-lasting, often lasting more than 20 years. They are also gentle on the surrounding teeth.
- Disadvantages: The most expensive type of filling material and not tooth-colored, making them more noticeable.
- Glass Ionomer Fillings:
- Material: Made from a mixture of glass (silica) and acrylic.
- Advantages: Releases fluoride over time, which can help protect teeth from further decay. They bond well to the tooth structure and are tooth-colored.
- Disadvantages: Less durable than composite or amalgam fillings and generally used for fillings that are not subject to heavy chewing forces.
What to Expect During the Dental Filling Procedure
- Examination and Diagnosis: Your dentist will examine your teeth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the decay or damage.
- Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Removing Decay: The dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill or laser.
- Preparing the Tooth: The cleaned-out cavity is prepared for the filling. If using a bonded filling, the dentist will apply an adhesive before placing the filling material.
- Placing the Filling: The filling material is applied in layers and hardened using a special light (for composite fillings).
- Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling is in place, the dentist will shape it to match your natural bite and polish it to smooth out any rough edges.
Aftercare for Dental Fillings
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: For the first 24 hours, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, especially if you have a new filling.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth clean and prevent further decay around the filling.
- Watch for Sensitivity: Some sensitivity to hot and cold foods is normal after a filling but should subside within a few days. If sensitivity persists or worsens, contact your dentist.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly to ensure your fillings remain in good condition and address any dental concerns early.
Why Choose Cosmothetics for Your Dental Fillings?
At Cosmothetics Skin Aesthetic and Dental Clinic, we provide high-quality dental care with a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction. Our experienced dental professionals use the latest technology and materials to ensure your fillings are durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you need a new filling or a replacement for an old one, we tailor our treatments to meet your unique needs.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you think you might need a dental filling or just want a check-up, call us at 03259150000 to book your appointment. Let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile!