Fillings
A filling is a way the dentist can restore a damaged tooth to its normal shape, color and function using various biocompatible materials. The most common reason you may need a filling is dental decay.
So what is dental decay and how cavity is formed?
Dental decay is a process whereby the bacteria on our teeth use the sugars that we consume through our food to produce acid which slowly and gradually destroy the enamel on our teeth and form cavity. If the tooth is left untreated bacteria will continue to destroy the enamel and the cavity will increase, which may result in sensitivity. You may experience sensitivity when drinking hot/cold liquids or when eating something sweet. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they indicate that a cavity is forming and treatment is needed.
So what does the dentist do?
The dentist will use specialist tools to clean the cavity from all the bacteria and damaged tooth structure. Thereafter, the dentist will place a filling material into the cavity to restore the form of the tooth and to prevent any new bacteria from getting in.
Is it going to Hurt?
No, every procedure should be done under local anesthesia (numbing the tooth), so you will not feel any pain.
How long is the filling it going to last?
It depends on various factors such as: the material type, the technique and the size of the cavity. An ideal filling should last for at least 5 years. Reviewing of placed fillings should be done at every regular check-up (6-12months) for any defects. If any substantial defect is noted, meaning that a new cavity is likely to form, then replacement of the filling must be done. When a defected filling is not replaced, secondary-caries can develop leading to a new cavity under the existing restoration.
Tooth coloured Composite fillings on Lower Molars.
Amalgam Filling on Lower Molar.
Replacement of an old Amalgam Filling with a Tooth Coloured Composite one.
Black or white filling?
A metal Amalgam (black) filling is the most common material used for restoring cavities of back teeth. This material is one of the most durable and oldest materials used in dentistry. Placing an amalgam is a fast procedure and an ideal amalgam filling can last up to 25 years! Of course, there are downsides as well. First, the most obvious one is the anesthetic metal color. Second, it requires slightly more tooth structure to be removed as it is not glued to the tooth but is held in place by mechanical retention. Third, fracture of the tooth fragments is frequently observed in large amalgam fillings as the material has different physical properties of these of a tooth.
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When we talk about White fillings, we usually refer to Composite resin materials. These are tooth coloured materials, which can vary to meet any natural tooth shade and color. These materials are a relatively new addition to dentistry compared to amalgam, and are ideal for restoring all teeth, from functional to esthetic restorations. However, they are technique sensitive and require more chair time to be placed. Another difference from amalgam, is that they are glued and no additional tooth structure is removed to hold them in place. Today, Composite materials can be used as a Universal material for all kinds of restorations.
So whether you will have a black or a white filling is a decision to be taken between you and the dentist considering what will be best for you, with you making the last call.