Have you ever heard from your dentist that you need a filling? You probably know that this is a procedure done to fix cavities being a common and effective solution, in addition to this, there are many aspects of dental fillings that need to be considered, such as the types, how they are made, how long they take, what to look for when getting a filling… In this blog, we explore the curiosities about dental filling.
What is a Dental Filling?
Dental filling is a very common dental treatment applied to repair a broken or decayed tooth using different materials. The dentist can use this treatment not only to repair fractures and decayed teeth, but also as a preventive treatment, based on chewing functions or aesthetics.
The Types of Tooth Filling
We can say that there are 3 types of tooth filling. These includes,
1. Amalgam Filling (Silver)
Amalgam is a special alloy obtained by mixing mercury, a metal in liquid form at room temperature, with other metal powders such as silver, tin, copper, zinc in solid form. Fillings made with this alloy are naturally grey in colour, so they are used in the back teeth instead of the front teeth. Amalgam fillings are strong but the colour can be very noticeable.
2. What is a Dental Filling?
Composite fillings are an aesthetic type of filling used to repair tooth decay. Designed to match the natural color of your teeth, they provide a seamless and natural
appearance. After the decayed area is cleaned, the composite material is applied, shaped, and then hardened using UV light. While composite fillings may not be as long- lasting as amalgam, they are a popular choice for front teeth and visible areas due to their aesthetic appeal.
3. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)
Porcelain filling is a tooth-coloured and natural-looking filling used to fill the cavities formed after the cleaning of tooth decays of all sizes. It can be recommended for every tooth; front or back. Ceramic fillings stand out in dentistry treatments in terms of both aesthetics and durability. We can think of it as the non-grey coloured one of amalgam and the more durable than the composite filling and it’s the most expensive one.
The Dental Filling Procedure: Step by Step
First, you will receive local anesthesia, and the area will be given time to become numb. Once the numbness sets in, your dentist will begin cleaning out the decay. After the decayed area is removed, it leaves an empty space, which is then filled with the material you and your dentist have chosen together. The filling is carefully shaped to restore the tooth’s structure.
In the final stage, your dentist will make necessary adjustments to ensure you can bite comfortably. While the duration may vary depending on the tooth, the procedure typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes.
Your Responsibilities After Dental Filling: What to Do?
After your dental filling, your dentist will inform you about what you should do during the recovery process. After the filling, you have some responsibilities in order to use your filling longer. These responsibilities can be listed as;
- Do not eat until the numbness passes.
- Do not consume sticky and hard foods.
- Pay attention to your oral hygiene, do not neglect brushing and flossing regularly.
- See our dentist on regular intervals.
When Should a Dental Filling Be Replaced?
How long the dental filling will be replaced and its durability; It is closely related to both the patient’s attention to oral and dental health hygiene, the amount of filling made, the materials used and the experience of the dentist. Assuming that your filling is not too large and the tooth is fully healthy; you can use it for years. For example:
The durability of silver amalgam and porcelain fillings is between 15-20 years while the duration of composite fillings varies between 8 and 10 years and may need to be replaced at the end of this period.
If there are decays around the filling in your tooth, if there is sensitivity and pain in your tooth, filling is cracked or broken, it should be replaced.
In Conclusion
In summary, dental fillings are of great importance to protect oral health.They are a simple and preventive treatment. Do not avoid having your dental fillings done, if you do
not have your treatment done on time, the cavity may grow and root canal treatment may be required or the tooth may not be saved with root canal treatment, you may lose your natural tooth. Your dental health is very important, whether you have sensitivity or not, seeing a dentist and getting your preventive treatments is of great advantage to you.