Despite your best effort to take care of your teeth, sometimes brushing just isn’t enough. When it comes to those hard-to-reach spots in your mouth, it is difficult for your toothbrush to get between the cracks and grooves on your teeth. If left alone, these cracks can develop tooth decay.
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape.
Despite your best effort to take care of your teeth, sometimes brushing just isn’t enough. When it comes to those hard-to-reach spots in your mouth, it is difficult for your toothbrush to get between the cracks and grooves on your teeth. If left alone, these cracks can develop tooth decay.
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape.
Despite your best effort to take care of your teeth, sometimes brushing just isn’t enough. When it comes to those hard-to-reach spots in your mouth, it is difficult for your toothbrush to get between the cracks and grooves on your teeth. If left alone, these cracks can develop tooth decay.
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings refer to a dental procedure that uses restorative materials to repair a damaged tooth. Decayed tooth caused by improper cleaning is the most common reason individuals seek this treatment. The restorative material known as fillings is used to replace the damaged part of the tooth.
At DP Dental, we offer several dental restorative services, including dental fillings.
Why replace a filling
Fillings don’t last forever. They can become discoloured. Composite, tooth-coloured fillings pick up stains, and yellow or darken over time. When you chew, your teeth and any fillings in them are subjected to tremendous pressures. Even if no other problems develop, some fillings will wear out over time and need replacement. A filling will need to be replaced earlier if it falls out, leaks or cracks.
Bacteria and bits of food can seep down under a filling that is cracked or leaking. Since you can’t clean there, the bacteria feed on the bits of food and form the acid that causes tooth decay.
Decay under a filling can become extensive before you notice it or it causes you pain. This is why you should have your fillings checked regularly and get them replaced when you encounter problems.
If decay or a fracture has damaged a large portion of the tooth, a crown, or cap, may be recommended.
Decay that has reached the nerve may be treated in a few possible ways: root canal therapy (in which nerve damaged nerve is removed).
Dental filling options
There are several types of fillings you can choose from, depending on the material.
A composite resin filling, composed of high-quality quartz and acrylic plastic, is a modern-day tooth-coloured filling that helps restore the damaged tooth’s appearance. This filling is the most economical option for those looking for restorative solutions that match your existing tooth’s colour. Other cosmetic options include ceramic and porcelain fillings.
What is the procedure like?
A dental filling procedure is relatively simple, and usually, one appointment is enough. Done frequently at DP Dental, our dentists will make a proper diagnosis and determine the filling treatment plan after examining your teeth. Our doctors may take X-rays at this stage.
After a complete diagnosis, our dentists will prepare your tooth for filling. They will remove damaged parts of the tooth with its surrounding debris, decay and bacteria.
Next, your tooth will be thoroughly cleaned. If the damaged parts are near the nerves, they will apply a special medication for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely filled in; layer by layer, cured with a UV light until the whole tooth is restored to its original shape. It is then polished to give it a great look.
Can anyone get a filling?
No. For this type of restoration to be done, you need to have a certain amount of healthy tooth structure remaining. If too much of a tooth is missing, a dental crown may be more suitable. A dental crown is custom made and sits on top of your tooth like a helmet.
Taking care of your fillings
After a dental filling procedure, your tooth is restored to its original structure. Dental fillings have no expiration date. Like regular teeth, Fillings are subject to wear and tear if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
Good dental habits to remember
- Brush your teeth regularly. Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Avoid bad habits like biting or chewing on inedible objects, or grinding and clenching your teeth, especially on your fillings.
- Regular dental visits are encouraged to allow early detection of potential complications.
