Dental Fillings
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Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are artificial substances that are used to fill in the holes or gaps in the enamel of decayed, broken or damaged teeth.
Uses of dental filling
Dental fillings are needed to restore the shape and stability of the tooth for ease of chewing and preventing further damage, decay and loss of the tooth. Dental fillings may be used in cases of:
- Tooth decay, to fill holes that have formed in the enamel but have not affected the inner pulp of the teeth where the blood vessels and nerves are contained
- Injured or broken teeth where enamel has chipped off potentially exposing the tooth to decay
- To restore worn out or eroded teeth
Types of dental fillings
There is a wide range of fillings that are available. Some of these include:
- Tooth or white colored fillings or composite resin – These are a mixture of powdered glass and plastic resin and also referred to as white, plastic, or tooth-colored fillings. Such fillings usually fill the top of the teeth and look much like the original tooth material they are replacing. They also release small amounts of fluoride that may help reduce the risk of further tooth decay.
- Silver fillings or silver amalgam – This is one of the most widely used dental fillings. These fillings are made up of a mixture of silver alloy and mercury and are more durable than other types of filling. Both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Dental Federation approves the use of silver amalgam for their durability and safety.
- Glass ionomer cement – This is a self-hardening mixture of glass and organic acid and is tooth coloured. This material is used for small filings, for cementing porcelain or metal crowns and in temporary restorations.
- Resin ionomer cement – This is a mixture of glass and resin polymer and organic acid that solidifies on exposure to blue light. This is also colored like the tooth.
- Porcelain may also be a temporary filling agent
- Nickel or cobalt-chrome alloys contain both nickel and chromium and are silver colored. They are also used as a dental cement for fixing crowns.
- Gold alloys containing a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals are used for crowns and partial dentures.
FAQs
Ans: Dental fillings are materials used to restore teeth damaged by decay or cavities. The filling material is placed into the cleaned-out cavity to restore the tooth’s shape, function, and strength.
Ans: Common types of dental fillings include amalgam (silver), composite resin (tooth-colored), ceramic, and gold. Each material has its own benefits, and your dentist will recommend the best option based on your needs and preferences.
Ans: The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used and your oral habits. Amalgam fillings typically last 10 to 15 years, while composite fillings may last 5 to 10 years. Proper care can help extend their longevity.
Ans: The procedure for placing a dental filling is usually painless, as it is performed under local anesthesia. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward, but this typically resolves within a few days.
Ans: Signs that you may need a dental filling include tooth sensitivity, pain when chewing, visible cavities or dark spots, and persistent toothaches. Regular dental checkups can also detect cavities early, before symptoms develop.
Ans: Yes, dental fillings can be replaced if they become damaged or fall out. Your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and recommend a new filling or alternative treatment if necessary.
Ans: The procedure for placing a dental filling typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. Your dentist will ensure you are comfortable throughout the process.
Ans: The cost of dental fillings varies depending on the material used and the complexity of the procedure. Contact our clinic for a detailed consultation and personalized pricing information.
