Your teeth are awesome helpers for your entire body, mainly because they allow you to eat your favourite food, talk clearly, and smile confidently. But sometimes your teeth may be attacked by cavities that will need intervention from a dentist who will give you a dental filling to fix the problem and prevent the tooth from getting damaged any further. This article provides you with all the information that you require about dental fillings at an easily understood level.
What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are probably the most elementary and commonplace dental techniques used for restoring a tooth to its normal functioning and appearance after it has been harmed by decay. Decay is essentially the formation of small holes on the tooth’s surface. This happens when bacteria (germs) from our mouths feed on the sugars contained in various food and drinks and consequently, they produce acid. The acid then erodes the enamel, which is the protective outer layer of your tooth, and thereby causes decay.
After your cavity has been successfully filled with a dental filling, bacteria will no longer be able to get inside your tooth. Besides, filled cavities are not only protected from future infection/decay (germs), but they have also been relieved of pain which allows for the normal functioning of chewing (eating) and smiling again.
Why Do Cavities Happen?
People can get cavities if they don’t take good care of their teeth and if they consume a lot of sugar.
The bacteria in your mouth combine with sugar from the food and produce an acid. This acid will slowly break down the hard part of your teeth.
Initially, a cavity may be painless, but as the cavity enlarges, it will cause more pain and may result in sensitivity and even infection.
One should maintain brushing their teeth properly as a habit of brushing at least twice a day, dental flossing once a day at least, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups to avoid cavities. It is less painful and more comfortable to treat a cavity when it is first found.
Signs You Might Need a Dental Filling
You might need a dental filling if you have:
Pain when eating hot, cold, sweet, or sticky foods
A dark spot or hole on your tooth
Food getting stuck in one place often
A cracked or chipped tooth
If you notice these signs, it’s a good idea to visit a dentist soon. Early treatment helps prevent more serious problems like infections or root canals.
Types of Dental Fillings
Different types of materials will be used by the dentists to fill teeth. Different types of dental fillings are selected to some extent depending on the patient’s requirements and the nature or location of the tooth. Some of the most frequent types of dental fillings are:
a. Coloured Dental Fillings:
The materials used in coloured dental fillings are usually the same as those used for the natural tooth surface. Coloured fillings offer a natural look and are commonly used to fill the front teeth, they will enhance the smile of the patient too.
b. Silver or Metal Fillings (Amalgam)
These are strong and last a long time. They are usually used for back teeth that do most of the chewing.
c. Glass Ionomer Fillings
These also match the tooth color and slowly release fluoride that helps protect the tooth. They are often used for children’s teeth but are not as strong as other fillings.
d. Porcelain and Gold Fillings
These are made in a lab and may require two visits. Porcelain fillings look natural, and gold fillings are very durable. Both are more expensive but can last many years.
Different dentists will help you choose the right filling material based on where the cavity is and how big it is.
How a Dental Filling Is Done (Step-by-Step)
The dental filling procedure consists of six basic steps, and is typically completed in a single office visit:
I. Getting Checked for Cavities
Your dentist will examine your teeth and may take x-rays to help identify cavities in your teeth.
II. Numbing the Tooth
A local anesthetic will be given to numb the area around your tooth, which means you probably won’t be able to feel any pain from the drilling, only a little bit of vibration.
III. Removing Decayed Tooth
The dentist will remove any decayed areas from your tooth using a small dental tool to get rid of the affected areas.
IV. Cleaning Tooth
The dentist will clean out the inside of the filling hole to make sure it is free of bacteria and debris.
V. Filling Tooth
The dentist will put the filling material into the hole and shape it to match the rest of the tooth.
VI. Polishing Tooth
The dentist will finally polish the filling for a smooth, natural appearance.
Once your filling is completed, you will be able to go home on the same day and resume your normal activities.
Does it Hurt to Get a Filling?
The notion of dental care often leads to anxiety in many individuals. However, you shouldn’t be concerned undergoing a dental filling procedure is generally non, painful. Due to the local anaesthesia (medicine that numbs the area), pain should not be one of the feelings when the tooth is being treated by a dentist. There can be a feeling of slight pressure or vibration but no acute pain. A few people experience minor sensitivity lasting a short time after the filling, but this normally disappears.
In case you experience pain or discomfort that remains after a couple of days, then it is advisable to contact your dentist.
Aftercare: How to Take Care of Your Filling
Some of the ways to care for your dental filling are:
Brush your teeth thoroughly two times a day
Floss regularly
Avoid very hard foods such as ice or hard candy that can damage the filled tooth
Attend dental visits routinely
Refrain from eating sticky sweets that may pull out the filling
Maintaining good oral hygiene is the main way for your filling to last a long time.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
The life of a dental filling depends on the material used and how well you take care of your mouth. Some fillings can last over 10 years if you maintain good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.
Why Early Dental Filling Is Important
Getting a dental filling early is very important. Small cavities that are detected in time are easier to repair and cause less pain. When decay penetrates the inner nerves, it generally requires a more radical treatment, such as a root canal. Early treatment also saves time and money.
Conclusion
Dental fillings remain one of the most efficient, safest, and easiest ways to deal with cavities. Apart from preventing the decay from worsening, dental fillings also help to alleviate pain and bring back the normal strength and function of the teeth.
If you have any pain, spots, or severe sensitivity in your teeth, it is advisable to visit a dentist immediately. A dentist can most probably detect the problem at a very early stage and hence give you the most suitable treatment.
Should you be a resident of Richmond Hill and in need of quality dental service, you may refer to Red House Dental as a one stop for dental fillings provider. Using state of the art dental technologies, the practice welcomes patients of all ages. In addition, they explain each treatment step and provide a relaxed and comfortable environment. You can count on Red House Dental for highly effective care that will bring back your healthy smile.