Restorations/Fillings
A tooth filling is a common dental procedure used to restore teeth affected by cavities or minor damage. When decay erodes the enamel, it creates holes that can worsen if left untreated. Fillings help seal these cavities, preventing further deterioration and protecting the tooth’s structure. Modern dental fillings are durable and blend seamlessly with natural teeth, ensuring both function and aesthetics.
Regular check-ups allow dentists to detect early signs of decay and recommend fillings before more invasive treatments, such as root canal treatment or extractions, become necessary. Prompt intervention with fillings supports long-term oral health and overall well-being.
Tooth decay and cavities are some of the most common dental problems that our patients face. If left undetected or untreated, cavities can get larger and lead to infection, toothache and even tooth loss.
When Do You Need a Tooth Filling?
Tooth Sensitivity
Experiencing discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods? This could indicate enamel erosion or decay, which may require a tooth filling to prevent further damage.
Visible Cavities or Dark Spots
Noticing holes, pits, or dark stains on your teeth? These are common signs of decay that need prompt dental attention to avoid worsening.
Pain or Discomfort
A persistent toothache, especially when chewing, can signal decay reaching deeper layers of the tooth, requiring a filling.
Chipped or Worn Teeth
Teeth affected by grinding, injury, or wear may need fillings to restore their function and appearance, preventing further complications.
Benefits of Tooth Fillings
Restores Tooth Structure
A tooth filling repairs the damaged portion of a tooth, allowing it to regain its shape and function effectively.
Prevents Further Decay
By sealing the cavity, fillings prevent bacteria from causing further deterioration and potential infections. Early treatment can prevent more serious dental issues, such as root canal infections.
Improves Aesthetic Appeal
Modern composite fillings match the natural colour of teeth, ensuring a seamless and visually appealing smile.
Enhances Oral Health
Prompt treatment with fillings reduces the bacterial load in the mouth, and reduces the risk of extensive dental procedures, promoting long-term oral health.
Strengthens the Tooth
Fillings provide additional strength to weakened teeth, preventing further cracks or fractures.
Quick and Effective Solution
Getting a tooth filling is a straightforward, minimally invasive procedure that can usually be completed in one visit.
Book an Appointment Today! Schedule a consultation with our team to restore and protect your teeth.
Types of Direct Tooth Fillings
Direct fillings are applied and hardened within the tooth in a single appointment, offering a quick and effective solution for cavities. They are commonly used for minor to moderate decay, ensuring the tooth remains functional and aesthetically pleasing. Different types of direct fillings include:
Composite Fillings
Made from tooth-coloured resin, composite fillings blend naturally with your teeth. They are mercury-free, durable, and suitable for visible areas of the mouth. However, they may require more maintenance over time compared to other materials.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride, helping to strengthen enamel and prevent further decay. These are ideal for non-biting surfaces, such as near the gum line, and are commonly used for children’s teeth.
Amalgam Fillings
Composed of a metal blend, amalgam fillings are known to be durable and cost-effective. While they are long-lasting, their silver appearance makes them less popular for visible teeth.
Types of Indirect Tooth Restorations
Indirect fillings and restorations are custom-made in a dental lab before being bonded onto the tooth. These restorations are typically used for larger cavities or when more strength and durability are required. They include:
Inlays
Inlays fit securely within the grooves of a tooth’s biting surface, providing strength and longevity. They are a great option when a cavity is too large for a regular filling but does not require a full crown.
Onlays
Onlays extend over one or more cusps of the tooth, offering a more extensive restoration than inlays. They help protect the structure of the tooth while providing a strong and natural-looking finish.
Crowns
For severely damaged teeth, crowns encase the entire tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function. Crowns are often recommended when a tooth has suffered significant decay or structural loss.
The Tooth Filling Process
Step 1: Examination and Diagnosis
We begin by assessing the affected tooth through a thorough visual inspection and X-rays. This helps determine the extent of decay and whether a tooth filling is the appropriate treatment option. If decay is detected early, a simple filling can restore the tooth without further complications.
Step 2: Removal of Decay
To prepare for the filling, we will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step ensures that all bacteria and compromised enamel are eliminated, preventing future damage. The area is then cleaned and disinfected, creating a stable foundation for the filling material.
Step 3: Filling Placement
Once the decay is removed, the chosen tooth filling material is applied in layers. Each layer is shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. Composite fillings, for example, are moulded directly onto the tooth for a seamless appearance.
Step 4: Hardening and Polishing
For composite fillings, a special curing light is used to harden the material quickly. After hardening, the filling is polished to ensure a smooth and natural finish. This step helps the filling blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure, improving both function and aesthetics.
Step 5: Final Adjustments
Once the filling is in place, we will check your bite to ensure proper alignment. Any necessary adjustments are made to provide a comfortable and functional restoration. This final step ensures that your new filling allows for natural chewing and speech without any discomfort.
FAQs
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Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, while amalgam and gold fillings can last longer with proper care. The longevity of fillings can be improved with proper oral hygiene measures, and by avoiding biting on hard foods to avoid chipping the fillings.
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If the cavity extends deep into the tooth near the nerves, some discomfort may be experienced during removal of the bacteria in the cavity. The procedure can be performed under local anaesthesia, to ensure minimal discomfort. Mild sensitivity may occur after treatment but usually subsides quickly.
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It is recommended to wait until the anaesthesia wears off before eating. Avoid hard or sticky foods for a few hours, especially if you have glass ionomer fillings.
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Fillings may dislodge due to wear, trauma, or biting on hard foods. If this happens, visit your dentist promptly for a replacement.
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Yes, worn-out or damaged fillings can be replaced with new ones to maintain oral health and aesthetics.