Fillings, or dental restorations, are used to repair the cavity created by dental caries or to restore the structure of a tooth affected by other issues, such as cracks or wear.
Dental Fillings
Brief
Dental fillings or restorations are used for repairing cavities created by caries or for restoring the structure of a damaged tooth. The procedure involves local anesthesia, removal of the damaged part of the tooth, and filling the empty space with filling material. The filling is then shaped to fit the form of the tooth.
There is a special type of fillings called photopolymerizable fillings, which harden with the help of a polymerization lamp. These fillings can be precisely sculpted and are available in various colors.
At Advanced Dentistry, several types of fillings are offered, each with its own advantages:
- Composite Fillings: Made of a mixture of plastic and glass, matched to the color of the tooth.
- Inlays and Onlays: Durable and custom-made in the laboratory, can be exactly matched to the color of the tooth.
- Glass Ionomer Resin Fillings: Used for small caries and in children.
The choice of filling type depends on factors such as the location and size of the caries. Advanced Dentistry works together with the patient to choose the best option. Care of the fillings is essential to prevent future caries and requires good oral hygiene, including daily brushing, using dental floss, and regular dental check-ups. Fillings should be checked periodically to ensure they are still in good condition.
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Filling Procedure
The filling procedure begins with local anesthesia to numb the area. Then, the dentist will remove the damaged part of the tooth. After cleaning, the empty space will be filled with the filling material. Once the material has hardened, the dentist will grind and shape the filling to match the natural shape of the tooth.
Photopolymerizable fillings harden with the help of a polymerization lamp, which emits light of a certain wavelength, usually in the blue spectrum. The process is also called photopolymerization.
The material used for these fillings contains a light-sensitive resin and an initiator, which, when exposed to light of a certain wavelength, triggers a chemical process of polymerization (joining small molecules to form long chains of polymers). This process turns the material from a malleable paste into a hard solid.
Photopolymerization occurs quickly, generally a few seconds to a minute, depending on the size and depth of the cavity that was filled. During this time, the dentist will use the polymerization lamp to evenly expose the filling to light.
One of the advantages of photopolymerizable fillings is that they can be precisely sculpted and formed before hardening, allowing the dentist to replicate fine details of the natural tooth. They are also available in a wide range of colors to match the natural colors of the patient's teeth.
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Types of Dental Fillings
At Advanced Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing customized solutions for each patient. This includes selecting the right type of dental fillings. There are several materials available for dental fillings, each with its own advantages. Here's a look at the common types of fillings we offer.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and glass. They can be matched to the color of the tooth, making them a popular choice for front teeth or for people who want a more aesthetic option.
Porcelain Inlays and Onlays
Porcelain, or ceramic, is often used for inlays, onlays, and crowns. These are customized in a laboratory and then cemented onto the tooth. They are very durable and can resist wear, and their color can be exactly matched with that of the natural tooth.
Glass Ionomer Resin Fillings
These fillings are made from a material that contains glass and a type of plastic called polyacrylate. They are often used for small caries, root caries, and caries in children.
The choice of filling type depends on a variety of factors, including the location and size of the caries. At Advanced Dentistry, we will work with you to determine the best type of filling for your unique needs. If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us.
Care of Fillings
After a filling, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent the occurrence of other caries. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, using dental floss daily, and scheduling regular dental check-ups. Fillings should be checked regularly to ensure they are still in good condition and do not need replacement.
Frequently asked questions
Dental fillings are treatments used to repair teeth that have been affected by cavities. They 'fill' the cavity created by the decay to restore the tooth's shape and function.
The main types of fillings include composite (colored resins), amalgam (a mixture of mercury with other metals), gold, and ceramics.
Composite fillings match the natural color of teeth and adhere well to tooth structure. They are ideal for visible restorations.
Amalgam is a traditional filling material that includes mercury, silver, copper, and other metals. It is durable and inexpensive, but does not match tooth color. The safety of amalgam has been a subject of debate, so at Advanced Dentistry, we do not use amalgam.
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used and how it is cared for. Composite fillings typically last at least 5 years, and with proper care, you can wear them for life.
Applying a filling is usually a painless process, as it is performed under local anesthesia.
Signs that indicate the need for a filling include tooth pain, sensitivity to cold or hot, and visible holes or cracks in the teeth. It's important to consult your dentist for an accurate diagnosis.
Yes, fillings can fall out or deteriorate over time, especially if exposed to excessive pressure due to habits like grinding teeth or consuming very hard foods.
Preventing the need for fillings is achieved by maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, using dental floss, avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and periodic visits to the dentist for check-ups and professional cleanings.
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