In order to restore the function, integrity, and structure of your teeth, it requires treatment such as dental fillings or dental restoration. Tooth decay is the worst threat to your dental hygiene and can lead to cavities that can damage your teeth. A tooth filling is a painless procedure used on decayed teeth which prevents further damage of teeth.
The following steps to a simple procedure are briefly described below:
Each material used for dental fillings has its own benefits and limitations. Your dentist will arrange an appointment for you to discuss the type of filling that is suitable for your mouth; since the chosen material depends on various factors from the location of the affected tooth, medical history, to allergies.Â
1. Amalgam FillingsÂ
A combination of copper, silver, mercury and tin is amalgam which is silver in colour and is very stable and robust. But, this type of filling can cause your teeth to crack due to expansion and contraction in heat.Â
Hence, we pride ourselves on being an amalgam-free practice, choosing to only use materials for dental restorations from the safest and most trusted brands.
2. Composite FillingsÂ
Made out of finely grounded glass particles or quartz particles with acrylic resin is called a composite filling. This material is pretty durable but costs comparatively higher than a metal amalgam.Â
3. Glass lonomer FillingsÂ
This material includes ionomers of glass that resemble the teeth colour and are easily bonded with tooth tissue. This material is usually used for children.Â
4. Gold Fillings For Inlays & OnlaysÂ
They are made up of gold fillings and a mix of gold, copper, and other metals, which are made as per specifics at the lab. This is considered to be the best material for tooth filling due to its durability. Gold fillings are also quite expensive since this material is well received by the surrounding gum tissue of one’s mouth.
5. Porcelain Fillings For Inlays & OnlaysÂ
These fillings are made up of porcelain and are of the same cost as the gold ones but match the colour of the natural teeth.Â
Generally, a filling lasts around 5 to 15 years. However, the lifetime of your filling is dependent on the material used, the restoration location in your mouth and your dental hygiene.
Don’t let your dental concerns stop you from having the smile you deserve. If you have an old metal filling which needs replacing, or fear you may be experiencing tooth decay, schedule a consultation with Rouse Hill Smiles today!
1.Sensitivity to heat and cold Â
Sensitivity that persists after eating hot or cold foods can be a sign of tooth decay.Â
2.Persistent sensitivity to sweetsÂ
The most common susceptibility to cavities is heat and cold, but persistent susceptibility to sweets and sweet drinks may also indicate cavities.
3.ToothacheÂ
Consistent pain in one or more teeth may indicate tooth decay. In fact, pain is one of the most common symptoms of tooth decay.
4.Tooth discolourationÂ
Tooth discolouration may initially appear as white spots. As bacteria/cavity progresses, the stains may darken.
If the dentist decides that padding is needed, a local anaesthetic is given to paralyse the area. When deaf, the dentist removes the disintegration with a laser, air grind, or drill and tests and tests to make sure all disintegrations are gone.Â
After the Bacteria is removed, space is prepared for filling. Preparation involves cleaning cavities from the tooth by removing debris and bacteria. If the cavities are near the root of the tooth, you can use a composite or glass ionomer to line the cavities first.
It is relatively common to experience pain and sensitivity in the treated tooth after filling. The dentist just poked-drilled and pierced the tooth. The discomfort usually goes away in a day or two. Why do some people have toothaches after filling? There are many reasons why you may feel a little pain or sensitivity after filling.
The purpose of the filling is to correct cavities and relieve discomfort. However, if you feel pain after chewing, eating, or opening your mouth even one week after your filling then. It is best to book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so he or she can find and fix the problem.
Approximately 50% of surgical dentistry (stuffing) consists of the replacement of misplaced filling. When composite (tooth colour) restoration materials appear on the molars, they are replaced approximately every five years. Properly placed silver amalgam filling can last for more than 30 years. Gold can hold up to 55 years.
Dr. Teena and the Rouse Hill Smiles team are dedicated to providing patients of all ages with the highest quality of care.