What is a dental filling
Dentists can fill cavities with a variety of materials, including metal alloys or porcelain. Dentists often recommend filling teeth that have deep cavities because these are more likely to cause decay and infection. These deeper cavities also need a stronger filling to help keep the tooth together.
A dental filling helps strengthen a damaged tooth, seal out decay-causing bacteria and relieve pain from sensitive teeth. Fillings aren’t as durable as other restorations, such as crowns or veneers. If your dentist recommends a filling, you can expect a more cosmetic procedure that lasts five to 10 years. Fillings today are far more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking compared to those from decades ago, but they still serve the same purpose as their predecessors. A filling is a soft, strong material made of metal alloy or porcelain placed inside a cavity in a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size.
Benefits of getting a dental filling
It’s the most common dental restoration and it can be used for a variety of applications, depending on the circumstances. Fillings are well tolerated by patients and can be less expensive than other types of restorations such as crowns.
Restoring your teeth with fillings is usually temporary compared to alternative procedures such as a root canal or crown. If you try to avoid fillings by brushing and flossing more thoroughly, you may be doing more damage than good. Cavities can form between teeth even if plaque isn’t visible from the gum line.
A filling is a healthier choice for treating cavities because it allows your tooth to stay intact by using it as a foundation, rather than removing the entire tooth for replacement with an artificial tooth. It also helps prevent the development of future cavities where bacteria can continue to accumulate around your filling, leading to further decay.
Know the symptoms of a cavity or tooth decay
One of the most common dental procedures is to fill a cavity or tooth decay. A cavity forms when food particles, bacteria, and saliva get stuck in between the enamel layer of teeth. The acids found in these substances are introduced through foods rich in carbohydrates such as bread, cakes, cookies, candies, and soft drinks. While the acids dissolve the enamel, the bacteria start to form plaque which creates a thick layer of protection against these acids. This is how cavities are formed!
Learn about dental fillings by finding out what they entail
Once a cavity is formed, it needs to be filled. The treatment for a cavity includes removing the cavity and then filling it with resin composite or amalgam. Resin composite consists of glass-like particles that make up the shape of the lost tooth structure by building over it. This process offers an immediate restoration with a natural look. However, it requires many appointments to ensure that the tooth is free of bacteria and another residue.
Amalgam is made up of alloyed silver, tin, copper, and zinc which provides strength in terms of durability. It offers an immediate restore to the cavity but it doesn’t shade or match well with neighboring teeth. Thus amalgam fillings are only recommended to be placed in posterior teeth.
Another option is a dental crown which is made of metal or porcelain, but these are only used when the damage is done is too severe for direct fillings. When the tooth has broken off at the gum line, root canal therapy or extraction will be required prior to placing crowns on top of the tooth. Root canals are performed by a professional, so it’s important to be aware of the risks involved.
Understand what can happen if your tooth is damaged before you get a dental filling.
Dental fillings are used to fix problems with your teeth. A filling stops further tooth decay and restores the tooth surface. They typically last three to ten years before they need to be replaced or repaired.
As you age, the health of your teeth may change due to factors like injury, illness, or disease. Your mouth can also change due to genetics, diet, certain medications, and other factors.
If you experience tooth decay or damage to your teeth, visit the dentist immediately. Avoid brushing the area until it heals enough that you can safely brush without causing irritation.
Tooth damage can be due to reasons like cavities, cracks, chips, and even fractures.
If you have a cavity or crack in your tooth, it may need to be treated with a dental filling material. Your dentist will determine the proper treatment for your condition. If your tooth is chipped or fractured, your dentist may recommend using a dental crown or a dental bridge for a better fit and appearance.
Prevention tips for avoiding future cavities
While a filling is a quick fix for a cavity, there are ways to prevent the formation of cavities in the future. As much as possible, brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once per day to remove excess bacteria. If you can’t brush after every meal, rinse out your mouth with water or chew gum to help push out the food particles clinging onto your teeth.
Ways to prevent cavities from returning include drinking plenty of water, limiting the intake of sugars and carbs, and limiting acidic foods such as citrus fruits and juices. It’s also best to avoid smoking because of its adverse effects on oral health.
Dental fillings are a solution for tooth decay and cavity problems. Depending on the extent of tooth damage, fillings may vary from a quick fix to a complete restoration using crowns or root canals. It’s always best to take care of your teeth as much as possible by practicing good dental hygiene.
If you have a toothache or any dental emergency, call us at Kw Dental Emergency. We offer dental root canals, Crowns & Bridges, Dental Filling Cavities, and more.