If you have decay in part of your tooth and want to prevent further decay, you can get Fillings. Your dentist will remove the decayed or deteriorated area of the tooth and then fill the area where the decayed tissue once existed.

Now, let’s discuss the different types of dental fillings available today.

• Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are constructed of a resin and plastic substance inserted into the cavity when it's still soft and subsequently solidified under a strong blue light. It's popular as it matches the color of a patient's natural teeth, making it less noticeable than a silver amalgam filling. They should be updated every 5 - 7 years on average.

• Glass Fillings

These fillings made of glass and acrylic are ideal for toddlers whose teeth are still developing. They contain fluoride, which might try to secure teeth from decay. However, because they are substantially weaker than resin composites and are more susceptible to shatter or wear out, they typically only last a few years.

• Ceramic Fillings

Fillings are made of porcelain material and are long-lasting and appealing to the eye. They are more pricey than composite resin fillings, but they're tooth-colored and impervious to discoloration and abrasion.

• Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are costly and uncommon, which should come as no surprise. They typically only last a few years. A dentist who will recommend gold as an alternative can be challenging. Furthermore, the appropriate placement of a gold filling necessitates more sessions. Gold fillings are long-lasting, do not deteriorate, and last up to 20 years.

• Silver Amalgam Fillings

The most well-known kind of filling is this one. Silver amalgam alloy comprises 40 percent silver, 32 percent tin, 30 percent copper, and a minor amount of mercury. It's sturdy, long-lasting, and inexpensive. The average silver amalgam filling will last 12 years, and blood and saliva do not readily corrode silver amalgam.

After a filling is placed, you may feel a sense of sensitivity to pressure, air, sweet foods, or temperatures. Usually, a sense of sensitivity leaves on its own with time. Until then, stay away from the source of your sensitivity. Taking pain medication is typically unnecessary.

See your dentist if the sensitivity persists after four to six weeks or even if your tooth is susceptible. They may propose using a desensitizing toothpaste, applying a desensitizing chemical to the tooth, or performing a root canal.

I Have A Cavity That Needs Filling

Fillings are a common dental treatment used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or minor fractures. They play a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of your teeth while preventing further damage. Understanding how and why fillings are required can help you appreciate their importance in preserving your oral health.

How Fillings Are Done

• Diagnosis of Tooth Decay or Damage The need for a filling typically begins with a dental exam. Your dentist will check your teeth for cavities or signs of damage. Sometimes, X-rays are taken to detect decay that isn’t visible to the naked eye, such as between the teeth or beneath the surface of the enamel.

• Cleaning Out the Decayed Area Once a cavity or damaged portion of the tooth is identified, the decayed part is removed to prevent the spread of infection or further decay. This is done using specialized dental tools to ensure all affected tissue is cleaned out.

• Filling the Tooth After the tooth is cleaned, the space left by the decay or damage is filled with a suitable material. The most common materials include composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain. The choice of material depends on the location of the filling, the patient's needs, and the dentist’s recommendation.

• Shaping and Polishing Once the filling material is applied, your dentist will shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth. This ensures your bite remains even and comfortable. After the shaping, the filling is polished to provide a smooth surface that feels natural.

Why Fillings Are Required

• Repairing Cavities The most common reason for getting a filling is to treat a cavity caused by tooth decay. When bacteria in your mouth break down sugars, they produce acids that can erode the enamel and create small holes or cavities. If left untreated, cavities can grow larger, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. A filling restores the damaged tooth and prevents the decay from spreading further.

• Restoring Tooth Function Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or worn down due to grinding (bruxism) or using them for activities like opening packages may need fillings. These conditions weaken the tooth and affect its ability to chew food effectively. Fillings restore the strength of the tooth and allow you to bite and chew normally.

• Preventing Further Damage If a cavity or minor crack in a tooth is not treated promptly, it can worsen over time. The decay can penetrate deeper into the tooth, affecting the nerves and leading to more severe pain and the potential need for a root canal or even extraction. Fillings help seal the affected area, preventing bacteria from entering and causing further damage.

• Cosmetic Improvements In some cases, fillings are used to improve the appearance of a tooth. For example, if a front tooth is chipped, a composite resin filling that matches the color of your natural teeth can restore its appearance. This type of filling blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth and enhances the smile.

• Durability and Longevity Fillings are not only functional but also durable. Depending on the material used, fillings can last for many years, providing long-term protection and functionality. While they may need to be replaced over time due to wear, maintaining regular dental check-ups can help ensure they last as long as possible.

Maintaining Fillings

Once you have a filling, it’s important to maintain proper oral hygiene to ensure it lasts. Here are some tips:

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, can help prevent further decay around the filled tooth.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings. Your dentist will check your fillings during these visits to ensure they are still intact and functioning properly.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Biting down on hard foods like ice or nuts can potentially damage your fillings, especially if they are made from composite resin. Be cautious with these types of foods to protect your dental work.
• Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or engage in contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect both your teeth and fillings from damage.

FAQ

1. What are dental fillings made of?
Dental fillings can be made from a variety of materials, including composite resin (tooth-colored), amalgam (silver), gold, and porcelain. Composite fillings are popular for their ability to match the natural color of teeth, while amalgam and gold fillings are known for their durability.

2. How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used and how well you care for your teeth. Composite fillings can last 5 to 10 years, while amalgam or gold fillings may last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help extend the life of your fillings.

3. Does getting a filling hurt?
The procedure for getting a filling is generally painless. Dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, so you won't feel any discomfort during the treatment. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience slight sensitivity, but this usually goes away after a few days.

4. How can I tell if I need a filling?
Signs that you may need a filling include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible holes or dark spots on your teeth, or pain when biting or chewing. It's important to visit your dentist regularly so they can detect cavities early, even if you don’t notice any symptoms.

5. Can fillings fall out?
Fillings can occasionally come loose or fall out due to wear, trauma, or decay around the filling. If this happens, it's important to visit your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth. Your dentist will replace or repair the filling to restore the tooth’s function and health.

At TruCare Dental, we provide dental solutions to improve your oral health while transforming smiles. Please contact us to make an appointment.