Tooth decay and cavities are some of the most common dental issues worldwide. Most of the time, dentists recommend dental fillings or cavity fillings to address these issues. Dental fillings occupy and seal the cavity-created holes in teeth after the decayed portion has been removed. Depending on the filling material, the cavity-filling procedure and the material’s durability may differ.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings (also known as tooth fillings) work by sealing the hole or damage caused by tooth decay. Dental fillings are made from various filling materials, including composite resin filling, gold and porcelain fillings, and amalgam filling.
Related Article: How to Heal a Cavity Without Fillings: A Natural Solution to Tooth Decay
The dental filling procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour and may be completed in one session if the cavity is small enough. However, larger cavities in multiple teeth will likely have a longer cavity-filling procedure and may require more than one appointment.
How Does Dental Filling Address Tooth Decay?
Dental caries and dental decay lead to holes in the teeth and compromise your overall oral health. This is caused by the tooth enamel receiving damage from several factors like sugary foods, bacteria, and acids in the mouth. If left untreated, a decayed tooth can cause infection, inflammation, pain, and even tooth loss.
Dental filling procedures aim to treat and restore the remaining tooth structure by removing decay from the teeth and filling the hole it leaves behind with tooth filling. Additionally, dental fillings prevent bacteria from building up inside the tooth and keep decay from spreading to other teeth.
What Is the Dental Filling Procedure?
The cavity-filling process involves a few steps. Here’s what you can expect when you set a cavity-filling appointment with your dentist:
1. Assessment
Your dentist will assess and evaluate your teeth to determine the extent of the damage. If you have tooth decay, your dentist will likely recommend cavity fillings to restore your affected tooth, prevent further damage, and protect your overall dental health.
2. Local Anesthesia
A local anesthetic may be administered for the procedure. The local anesthetics will numb the gums and area around your tooth to ensure you don’t feel pain and are comfortable from start to finish.
3. Removing Decay
Afterward, your dentist will remove the decayed part of the affected tooth with a laser or dental drill. This will be a pain-free experience due to the anesthetics. When all the decay has been removed, it’s time to place the filling material.
4. Dental Filling Placement and Curing
It’s now time for the dentist to insert the chosen filling material into the hole in the tooth to restore the functionality and appearance of your tooth. Your dentist ensures that the gaps and spaces in the hole are all filled and sealed properly to prevent bacteria and food particles from entering.
With the cavity filled, your dentist will cure or harden the filling material. Many dentists use a dental curing light or an LED curing light for this step.
5. Finishing and Ensuring Proper Fit
For the final part of the procedure, your dentist will shape the hardened filling material to ensure that it fits properly in your mouth and against opposite teeth when you bite. This can involve trimming or polishing the filling until your dentist achieves a natural appearance and a comfortable bite for your tooth. You may experience tooth sensitivity and soreness a few days after the procedure, but it will eventually go away.
Different Types of Filling Materials
There are different types of fillings available for the procedure. Each type has unique characteristics and features. However, choosing the right filling material depends on the specifics of the cavity and the overall cost. Make sure to inquire with your dentist as they can recommend the best type of filling for your specific needs.
Silver Amalgam Fillings
Silver, metal, tin, mercury, and other metals comprise amalgam fillings (also called silver fillings). They are noticeable in the mouth due to the color of the silver fillings, but these types of fillings are usually strong, durable, affordable, and long-lasting. Silver amalgam fillings are usually placed in areas of the mouth that experience more pressure and chewing.
Composite Fillings or Composite Resin Fillings
Most patients and dentists opt for composite fillings (also known as composite resin fillings) because the composite material is tooth-colored and blends well with the rest of the natural teeth. Made from a mix of resin-based materials, this type of filling is not as durable as metal fillings, but it’s an ideal choice for small or medium-sized cavities and one of the most aesthetically pleasing options.
Ceramic Fillings or Porcelain Fillings
Ceramic fillings or porcelain fillings closely match the natural color of teeth, making it another choice for filling a cavity on a more visible tooth. Due to their stain-resistant and durable nature, this is also a top choice for many patients and is often recommended by dentists.
Gold Fillings
While gold fillings are more expensive than other types of fillings, they also offer more durability and are more resistant to wear and damage. Dentists usually recommend placing this type of filling to address back tooth decay as these areas experience more pressure, thus requiring a stronger filling.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from acrylic and glass materials. They’re teeth-colored and have strong adhesion. This filling also adds another layer of protection to the tooth by releasing fluoride, making it beneficial for improved oral health.
Resin Ionomer Fillings
Resin ionomer fillings are similar to the glass ionomer type. They just happen to have added resin components. This filling is a great choice for treating cavities because it also releases fluoride. Your dentist may recommend this filling if you’re looking for a tooth-colored type.
Tips for Maintaining Dental Fillings
Dental fillings work best when they are properly placed, cured, and maintained. While cavities and tooth decay are treatable through tooth filling, it’s still important to take care of your oral health, prevent any irreversible damage to your teeth, and maintain the integrity of your tooth filling.
Here are some tips to help you out:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Floss daily and brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Avoid hard foods: With a poorly planned bite, hard foods can dislodge or permanently damage your cavity filling.
- Limit eating sugary foods and drinks: Foods and drinks rich in sugar can cause tooth decay and weaken the filling.
- Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions: Following your dentist’s instructions ensures your cavity filling remains intact and will last longer.
- Address your teeth grinding issues: If you grind your teeth in your sleep, consult your dentist on the best approach. Over time, teeth grinding can wear down your filling. You may be asked to wear a night guard to protect your teeth from damage.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking and using other tobacco products increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay which can also affect your cavity filling.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking lots of water positively affects your oral health more than you probably think. It helps maintain saliva flow and washes away bacteria and food particles that can be the beginnings of a cavity or tooth decay.
- Regularly visit your dentist: Schedule professional teeth cleanings at least twice a year and don’t hesitate to contact your dentist if you notice any changes in your oral health.
Dental Innovations: Your One-Stop Dental Care Destination
Looking for a dental practice that combines compassionate care and unparalleled expertise? Based in Oklahoma City, we at Dental Innovations take pride in our professional and effective dental work.
Contact us at 405-691-0877 and info@dentalinnovationsokc.com and discover why we’re the most trusted dental practice in OKC today!
