If you’ve ever had a cavity, you know what a toothache feels like. To prevent the cavity from getting worse, your dentist might suggest that you get a filling. But what is a filling and how does it work?
A filling is a dental restoration used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. The most common type of filling is made from a material called composite resin, which is a mixture of plastic and glass. Composite fillings are strong and durable and can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Other types of fillings include amalgam (silver), gold, and porcelain.
Fillings are placed in the tooth using a drill to remove the damaged area. The cavity is then cleaned and the filling material is placed in the tooth. Once in place, the filling material is hardened using a special light.
Fillings can last for many years, but may eventually need to be replaced due to wear or if they become loose. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to help prolong the life of your fillings.
All About A Filling And Its Function
Many different types of fillings can be used to restore a tooth. The type of filling that is best for you will depend on the location and size of the cavity, as well as your own personal preference.
Composite fillings are made from a mixture of glass or quartz filler and plastic resin. They are matched to the color of your teeth so that they are virtually undetectable. Composite fillings can be used on both the front and back teeth.
Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. They have been used for over 150 years and are very durable. Amalgam fillings are usually not used on front teeth because they are visible when you laugh or talk.
Glass ionomer fillings are made from a mixture of glass and acrylic acid. They release fluoride which helps to prevent cavities. Glass ionomer fillings can be used on both the front and back teeth.
Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain or composite resin. They are matched to the color of your teeth so that they blend in seamlessly. Ceramic fillings can be used on both the front and back teeth.
How Are Fillings Applied?
Fillings are applied by a dentist, who will first clean out the cavity in your tooth to remove any bacteria growth. They will then fill the cavity with filling material, such as amalgam (a mixture of metals) or composite resin (plastic). It’s a very simple procedure that is very important to prevent further damage from a cavity.
Benefits of a Filling
A filling is a great way to restore your smile after you’ve had a tooth removed. Not only does it make your smile look more attractive, but it also strengthens the remaining teeth and prevents further decay. There are many benefits of having a filling, including:
- Restoring your smile
- Strengthening your teeth
- Preventing further decay
- It restores your oral health
Alternatives to Fillings
While fillings are the top recommended fix for a cavity, other alternatives may be an option. It really depends on the circumstances as well as the size of the cavity that will determine if any of these are viable options. These options may include:
- Dental bonding: Dental bonding is a procedure in which your dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to your tooth, shapes it, and then hardens it with a special light. This can be used to repair small cavities or chips in your teeth. It is however not recommended for serious or larger cavities.
- Inlays and onlays: Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain or composite material and are custom-made to fit your tooth. They are used when a filling is too large for a tooth, or when there is extensive damage to the biting surface of a tooth. These are not to be confused with dental veneers which only provide cosmetic improvements. They do not correct any dental problems at all.
- Crowns: A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire surface of a tooth. It is used to restore a damaged tooth or to protect a weak tooth from breaking. Crowns are also used in minor tooth cracks where the risk of a broken tooth is not too high.
- Implants: A dental implant is an artificial replacement for the root of a natural tooth. It is used to support a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants are used when a cavity has destroyed the tooth beyond repair. The tooth is extracted and the implant process begins and replaces the missing tooth. It is both cosmetic, restorative, and functional.
Risks Involved With Fillings
While fillings are a very safe, common procedure—as with any dental procedure, there are potential risks. Most of the risks are due to either external causes not related to the procedure, or biocompatibility issues.
- Allergic reactions to the materials used in the filling (such as mercury or other metals)
- Infection at the site of the filling
- Damage to the tooth structure surrounding the filling (from drilling or from the filling itself)
- Tooth Sensitivity: Some people may experience increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks after getting a filling. This is usually temporary and will go away on its own. If it persists however, you should see your dentist.
Is A Filling The Right Option For Your Situation?
All in all, there is a wide variety of fillings that can be used for many different applications. As you’ve just read, a filling is a material that provides support and protection to areas where cavities have been removed. While getting dental work done can be intimidating, understanding the process and materials involved makes it easier to make informed decisions about your oral health care.
Whether or not a filling is the ideal solution for your cavity needs to be determined with a proper examination. Contact us if you’re struggling with a cavity, or if you need a filling for a dental implant, Renova Dental has you covered.
