Dental Fillings
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. When a dentist gives you a filling, he or she first removes the decayed tooth material, cleans the affected area, and then fills the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material. By closing off spaces where bacteria can enter, a filling also helps prevent further decay. Materials used for fillings include gold, porcelain, a composite resin (tooth-colored fillings), and an amalgam (an alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc).
A time-tested and effective way to keep tooth decay at bay.
Dental fillings, also known as tooth filling, are artificial restorations which are commonly used to treat and restore a damaged tooth back to its original function and appearance.
Dental fillings are required when there are cavities due to decay of teeth structure or fracture/ chipped tooth. This does not mean that you need to wait until there is a hole before dental fillings are required. There could be some early signs which are alerting you that you may require a tooth filling. Some examples include sensitivity to cold or sweet food, persistent tooth aches , or food getting stuck frequently.
The decay inside the tooth is removed by your dentist, the damaged area is cleaned and the clean cavity is then filled with a filling material.
This is an effective procedure that prevents further decay, as it prevents bacteria from multiplying by filling up the extra space inside the tooth.
Types of Dental Fillings
No one type of filling is best for everyone. What’s right for you will be determined by the extent of the repair, whether you have allergies to certain materials, where in your mouth the filling is needed, and the cost. Considerations for different materials include:
- Gold fillings are made to order in a laboratory and then cemented into place. Gold inlays are well tolerated by gum tissues and may last more than 20 years. For these reasons, many authorities consider gold the best filling material. However, it is often the most expensive choice and requires multiple visits.
- Amalgam (silver) fillings are resistant to wear and relatively inexpensive. However, due to their dark color, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite restorations and are not usually used in very visible areas, such as front teeth.
- Composite (plastic) resins are matched to be the same color as your teeth and therefore used where a natural appearance is desired. The ingredients are mixed and placed directly into the cavity, where they harden. Composites may not be the ideal material for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea or tobacco, and do not last as long as other types of fillings generally from three to 10 years.
- Porcelain fillings are called inlays or on-lays and are produced to order in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth and resist staining. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth. Their cost is like gold.
Consultation
Dental Assessment
At your dental check-up, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth. You will need to take the necessary X-rays and will be informed about any conditions that require a filling, or if other treatment options such as a crown or onlay would be preferable.
Deciding on a Filling Material
Your filling material will be decided according to your situation and expectations.
Placement of the Filling
- Placement of your filling can last from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on its size.
- You can opt to have local anaesthesia to numb the tooth (especially for larger cavities) to make the procedure painless and comfortable.
- Your dentist will gently remove the weakened or decayed parts of the tooth first. The filling is then placed and shaped into your cavity and polished till it is smooth and harmonious with your bite.
Follow Up Care
After the procedure, your dentist will give you instructions on how to look after your filling and also provide oral hygiene and health advice. Fillings that are done well and looked after meticulously can potentially last many years or even a lifetime.
We restore your teeth and your faith in the dentist
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We restore your teeth and your faith in the dentist
Satisfied Patients
Years of Experience