Author Bio
Sabka Dentist works to inspire better oral health in addition to helps folks feel great, appearance good and be more confident. For that society, Sabka Dentist is much more than the chain of Dental treatment centers. It is a driver once and for all oral health and well-being.
1. Filling Cavities: What to expect?
Some discolored spots on teeth may be indicative of a decay, but not necessarily. Dentist may use either an explorer or a probe to detect a possible cavity. A healthy tooth enamel is hard enough to resist the pressure from an explorer. However, decayed enamel being softer, the instrument may stick into it slightly. An X – ray helps to confirm the evidence of a cavity. Before filling the cavity, your dentist will numb your tooth, surrounding gums and skin. But this step is not always necessary. Next, the dentist will drill out the decay present in tooth to replace it with a filling. This process only takes a few minutes. Once the dental filling is done, your mouth will remain numb for a few hours.
2. What are the types of dental fillings?
Many types of dental filling options are available. All of them have their own advantages & disadvantages. Following materials are used for filling cavities:
· Amalgam fillings
They are ideal for filling cavities in the back of the mouth such as in molars. They have high compressive strength and durability. However, they are visible when you laugh or smile.
· Composite fillings
Composite fillings are tooth colored fillings that bond chemically to the tooth and do not require retentive features destroying healthy tooth as in case of Amalgam. They are also the material of choice for repairing chipped, broken or worn teeth and are cured using ultraviolet light.
· Glass Ionomer
This blend of acrylic and glass is also used as cavity filling material and also closely match the color of tooth. They are also used for cementing orthodontic brackets, sealing pits and fissures, etc. However, they are less durable than other fillings and may need replacement in a few years.
· Porcelain (Ceramics)
They are used as inlays, onlays, and aesthetic veneers. Inlays and Onlays are indirect restorations that are made outside of the mouth to fit the specific size and shape of cavity. They are then cemented in place in mouth. A veneer is a very thin shell of porcelain that can replace or cover part of the enamel of the tooth. These restorations are particularly desirable because their color and translucency mimic natural tooth enamel.
3. What to expect after a dental filling?
Sometimes, sensitivity to pressure/air/cold fluid/sweet food may be experienced. Composite fillings often cause sensitivity, but other types of filling material can, too. However, it settles. If the sensitivity is prolonged, let the dentist know. If necessary, your dentist may replace the filling. A base, liner or desensitizing agent may be added on the tooth as well. If the filling was very deep, then a root canal treatment can solve the problem.
Your dentist polishes the filling after it is placed, but occasionally sharp edges may jut out. This can’t be detected at first because of the anesthesia. If you think that you find one, ask your dentist and have it smoothed as soon as possible to avoid injury to your tongue or mouth.
Bite adjustment may be needed if the filling material is above or below the level of your bite. Nothing should be consumed for 30 – 40 minutes after receiving an amalgam restoration. Although, a composite restoration allows you to eat immediately without any precautions.
Also, dental fillings once done should be maintained by proper home care measures like regular brushing, use of mouthwash and flossing.
4. When to replace a dental filling?
Dental fillings usually last for many years before they need to be replaced. But they can wear out over the years. If you notice any wear or dislodgement of restoration, then have the filling replaced as soon as possible by the dentist. Secondary caries occurs under existing dental filling and require re-restoration.
5. How much will it cost?
Cost of fillings may vary widely depending on the following:
· The dental filling material being used by the dentist.
· Skill & Experience of the dentist performing your dental filling.
· Size & Extent of the filling.
· Amount of remaining tooth structure. Tooth with an extensive decay will have less remaining tooth structure.
