“No one can take our smiles away when dental decay is kept miles away.”
Did you know that 1 in 3 Australian adults over the age of 15 has untreated tooth decay? Tooth decay is caused by plaque – a sticky layer of acidic substance that dissolves the enamel coating on your teeth, leading to cavities.
When you consume foods high in carbohydrates or sugar, such as fruits, lollies, biscuits, bread etc., the bacteria in the mouth turn the sugar in food and drinks into acid, breaking down the tooth surface and resulting in a cavity.
The plaque can turn into tartar if left untreated, which can impact your gums and cause gingivitis.
The most common symptoms of tooth decay are:
- Sudden tooth pain, especially when you drink or eat cold, hot, or sweet food items.
- Dark spots on tooth enamel
- Cavities
- Tooth Sensitivity
That is why scheduling your dental appointment every six months is recommended. Those who already have tooth decay or cavities should consult a dentist ASAP. Dentists would usually recommend dental fillings.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a common restorative procedure used by dentists to treat cavities and restore the functionality and appearance of teeth. The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the area with a suitable material. Dental fillings can also be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth.
There are different types of tooth-filling materials used, including:
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam fillings, often called silver fillings, are the most common and affordable type. They are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings are durable and ideal for molars where chewing pressure is highest. However, they are visible and may cause discolouration of the surrounding tooth. That is why this tooth-filling type is commonly applied on the back teeth.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are made from a resin-based material that can be coloured to match the natural tooth, providing a more aesthetic result. They bond directly to the tooth structure, offering additional support. Composite fillings are versatile.
Since they give a more natural look to teeth, most people prefer composite fillings. However, they are a little less durable than amalgam and they may need replacement after some time.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy and are considered a premium option. They are extremely durable and well-tolerated by gum tissues. Gold fillings can last over 20 years but are a bit more expensive and require multiple visits to place. They are also noticeable, which might be a drawback for some.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic tooth fillings, also known as porcelain fillings, are made from high-quality ceramic material. They are aesthetically pleasing and resistant to staining. Ceramic fillings are durable and can last 10-15 years, they are more expensive than a standard filing due being custom fabricated by our lab.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a mix of acrylic and glass powder. They release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay. Glass ionomer fillings bond well to tooth and bone, making them suitable for children and fillings below the gum line. However, they are less durable and weaker than other types, typically lasting about five years. So, they are not ideal for molars and incisors
What are the Benefits of Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings can help you restore the functioning of your teeth and prevent future damage, they may provide the following benefits, depending on the type of restoration chosen:
- Strengthen weakened teeth
- Preserve your natural teeth
- Restore chewing function
- Improve tooth appearance
- Durable and can last for 10-20 years
What is the Procedure for Dental Fillings?
While there might be a small change in the dental filling procedure, as each dentist follows a different procedure depending on the material used, here is what you can expect at a dental clinic:
- A dentist will give your local anaesthesia to numb your tooth.
- After this, they will extract the damaged or decayed tissue from the tooth using dental tools.
- Fill the cavities with dental filling material and use a dental curing light to harden the material.
- After this, they will polish and smooth any rough edges to ensure you get the same biting experience that you get with your natural tooth.
Which Dental Filling is Ideal for You?
Dental fillings are necessary to restore your natural teeth when tooth decay occurs. However, which natural tooth filling type you should choose depends on various factors, including:
- Aesthetics: If the appearance is important, composite or ceramic fillings are preferable as they blend with natural tooth colour.
- Budget: Composite and glass ionomer fillings are less expensive than gold or ceramic fillings.
- Timeframe: Consider how long you want the filling to last. Gold and ceramic fillings are more durable, and composite fillings may need replacement sooner.
- Cavity Size: Larger cavities might require a stronger material like gold or ceramic. So, discuss your options with your dentist.
- Cavity Location: For visible teeth, a natural-looking material like composite or ceramic is ideal. For molars, durability is key, so amalgam or gold might be better.
FAQs
Q. Does Getting a Filling Hurt?
Ans. The procedure is generally painless due to local anaesthesia. You might feel some pressure or discomfort, but it shouldn’t be painful.
Q. Does Filling Remove Decay?
Ans. Yes, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth before filling it.
Q. When is it Too Late to Get a Tooth Filling?
Ans. If decay is too advanced, a filling might not be sufficient. In such cases, more extensive treatments like crowns or root canals might be necessary.
Q. How Long Does It Take to Recover After a Dental Filling Procedure?
Ans. Most people can resume normal activities immediately. Some sensitivity might occur, but it usually subsides within a few days.
Q. Can I Eat After a Filling?
Ans. It’s best to wait until the anaesthesia wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. For composite fillings, you can eat immediately after the procedure.
Q. How Should I Care for My Teeth with Fillings?
Ans. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know about different kinds of fillings, what are you waiting for? Find a reliable dental clinic like Sandgate Family Dental and restore your tooth function now.
At Sandgate Family Dental, we offer tooth-coloured composite resin fillings. These are made from a tooth-coloured material that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. These fillings are durable and ideal for repairing small to medium-sized cavities, especially in visible areas of the mouth. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing additional strength and support.
