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DENTAL FILLING

What is Dental Filling?

 

A dental filling is a treatment used to restore the integrity and functionality of a tooth damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. The procedure involves removing the decayed tooth material, cleaning the affected area, and then filling the cavity with a filling material. This helps prevent further decay by closing off spaces where bacteria can enter. Fillings can be made from various materials, including amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, or gold.

Who needs Dental Filling?

 

Individuals with tooth decay (cavities), minor fractures, or worn teeth from nail-biting, tooth grinding (bruxism), or erosion may require a dental filling. Symptoms that may indicate the need for a filling include tooth sensitivity, pain when biting down, visible holes or pits in your teeth, and dark spots on the surface of your teeth.

What are the Benefits?

 

The benefits of dental fillings include:

  • Restoration of normal tooth function and shape.

  • Prevention of further decay and damage to the tooth.

  • Relief from pain associated with cavities and tooth decay.

  • Improved aesthetic appearance of the tooth (in the case of tooth-colored fillings).

  • Long-lasting solution to tooth damage.

What are the Types?

 

There are several types of materials used for fillings, each with its own advantages:

  1. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: Durable and cost-effective, but visible.

  2. Composite Resins: Tooth-colored and preferred for visible areas, but less durable than amalgam.

  3. Gold Fillings: Extremely durable and biocompatible, but expensive and conspicuous.

  4. Ceramic Fillings: Made of porcelain, resistant to staining, and more aesthetic but can be as expensive as gold.

  5. Glass Ionomer: Release fluoride, which can help protect the tooth from further decay, but less wear-resistant.

What is the Procedure?

  1. The procedure for a dental filling involves:

  2. Numbing the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic.

  3. Removing decayed or damaged tooth material using a drill, air abrasion instrument, or laser.

  4. Cleaning the cavity of bacteria and debris.

  5. Filling the clean cavity with a filling material such as gold, porcelain, a composite resin (tooth-colored fillings), or an amalgam (an alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc).

  6. Polishing and adjusting the filled tooth to ensure a comfortable bite.

FAQ

1. Do dental fillings hurt?

Discomfort is minimal, especially with the use of local anesthesia during the procedure.

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2. How long do dental fillings last?

Depending on the material, anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care.

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3. Can fillings fall out?

Yes, fillings can fall out or wear down, necessitating replacement.

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4. Is it normal to have sensitivity after a filling?

Some sensitivity to pressure, air, sweet foods, or cold and hot drinks may occur initially but usually diminishes over time.

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5. How much do dental fillings cost?

Costs vary based on the size of the filling and the material used, typically ranging from $50 to $150 for amalgam fillings and $100 to $250 for resin or composite fillings.

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