FEEL THE DIFFERENCE WITH DENTAL FILLINGS
DENTAL Fillings are used to treat cavities, chips and fractures in teeth caused by decay, trauma or excessive forces due to grinding. The choice of filling materials depends on various factors such as size of cavity, strength and cost.
WHAT ARE DENTAL FILLINGS?
Fillings are dental materials used to fill cavities in teeth as the result of either tooth decay, excessive force or trauma. The commonest filling used was amalgam, which contains mercury. However, in recent years, dentists seldom use this material due to concerns over the mercury content and the poor cosmetics. Tooth-coloured plastic materials, called “composites” can be used for small fillings. However for large cavities, a stronger cover known as a crown may be required especially for patients who grind teeth.
As the strength, biocompatibility and aesthetic properties vary greatly, the filling material used depends on clinical needs. Cost is also an important factor. Our dentist will help you decide which type of filling is best for you.
Dental Filling Procedure
Before placing a filling, our dentist will first remove the decay or smoothen out and repair broken segments of the affected tooth. The filling material is then placed into the cavity and shaped to match the contours of the tooth. Once the filling is in place, it is hardened using a light and heat source.
After the filling is placed, you'll likely feel some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This is normal and should go away within a few days. Our dentist will share specific instructions on how to care for your teeth after the procedure.
TYPES OF DENTAL FILLINGS
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The decayed portion of the tooth is first removed and the sides of the cavity roughened. A gentle acid is applied to prepare the tooth surface before bonding and hardening the “composite” filling to the tooth using a blue light.
The fillings come in different shades and the one with closest match to the tooth colour is chosen. These fillings last in general for 2-3 years.
Another common tooth coloured material, called “glass ionomer” cement, is used to seal the sides of teeth which have become sensitive as a result of abnormal shearing of tooth structure near the gum margins of patients who grind their teeth.
Minimal tooth preparation is required and the tooth first treated with a conditioner before placing the fillings.
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Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are often preferred due to its strength and better cosmetics but is more costly. The decayed section of the tooth is first removed and a mould is made of the remaining tooth and sent to the laboratory for processing.
The process is highly automated. Using computer-based scanning and milling techniques, a filling can be made within hours. The average lifespan is 7-10 years.
Porcelain fillings can be made within hours in the clinic.
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Another common material is Zirconia which is even stronger than porcelain and is preferred in patients with high biting forces or who grind their teeth.
The end-product is then returned to the dentist who will then attached the filling using a special biocompatible cement.
Porcelain fillings can be made within hours while Zirconia fillings will need an extra day to process.
HOW LONG CAN Dental Fillings LAST?
In most cases, dental fillings last for many years. But they can eventually become loose or wear down over time. If this happens, you may need to have the filling replaced.
So next time you have a cavity, don't despair. Just remember that there's a filling for that.
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