What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are a way of replacing holes in teeth. When you have a cavity and bacteria has eaten away at the tooth, causing sensitivity or a toothache, we clean up the decay and fill the hole with a material. This process is referred to as a dental filling.
Can fillings be avoided?
Yes, they absolutely can be avoided. Fillings are necessary when there are cavities, which are a result of a bacterial process. By preventing cavities in the first place through good home care and regular dental checkups every six months, you can avoid the need for fillings and drilling.
What are the different types of materials used for dental fillings?
In the past, over 20 years ago, silver or amalgam fillings were most common. These are the black fillings often seen in people aged 40 and up. While they last for many years, they are unsightly and can cause cracks. Today, we primarily use composite resin material, which is tooth-colored and lasts for years with proper care. For larger cavities, we might use ceramic or porcelain, known as inlays or onlays. The most common materials today are composite resin and porcelain.
Can dental fillings match your tooth color?
It depends on the material. Silver or amalgam fillings do not match the tooth color as they are very dark. However, composite resin and porcelain fillings come in many shades, making it easy to match your tooth color.
Does a dental filling procedure hurt?
It shouldn't hurt because we numb the area. Our goal is to make you comfortable, and we recommend numbing unless a patient requests otherwise. Some patients tolerate small fillings without anesthesia, but this is rare.
Can you brush your teeth after getting a filling put in?
Absolutely, and it is mandatory. You must brush and floss your teeth after receiving a filling to ensure its longevity. Treat your teeth with fillings just like any other teeth by keeping them clean and attending regular checkups and cleanings.
Do dental fillings need to be replaced?
Sometimes, yes. Fillings may need replacement if they break due to biting into something hard or if decay occurs underneath due to poor oral hygiene. However, with proper care and regular checkups, fillings should last for many years.
What are dental cavities?
Cavities are a breakdown of the tooth material itself. The dental enamel that makes up our teeth is the strongest in the body, and when it gets broken down, teeth can break, causing a lot of pain and suffering. We're here to prevent that.
What causes dental cavities?
They're actually caused by bacteria. The bacteria in the mouth, which varies from person to person, break down tooth enamel by consuming sugar from foods like candies, chips, and sodas. The bacteria then produce acid, which breaks down the teeth and causes cavities.
How does a dentist check for cavities?
We have multiple ways. Number one is x-rays, which are essential because cavities are very visible on them. Without x-rays, we would be blindfolded. Another method is visual inspection, looking for discoloration, white spots, or soft areas on the tooth.
What are the stages of a cavity?
This depends on how deep the cavity has invaded the tooth. Teeth have three layers: enamel (the hard outer shell), dentin (the middle layer), and pulp (the center where the nerve is). The depth of the cavity determines the severity of the decay and the necessary treatment.
Can a cavity spread to other teeth?
Absolutely. This is a bacterial process, and it can spread to other teeth. That's why regular checkups and cleanings are crucial to address issues while they're still small.
Is it possible for cavities to go away?
Generally speaking, no. Cavities usually grow. However, if caught early while still in the enamel layer, they can be potentially reversed with impeccable hygiene, regular cleanings, and ample fluoride use. Diet also plays a role; avoiding sugary snacks and drinks is important.
How long do cavity fillings last?
This depends on the size of the cavity. Small cavities with small fillings can last for years without issue. However, larger cavities require larger fillings, which have more surface area and are more prone to breakdown. Typically, fillings last for years.