Dentistry has made a wide variety of advancements in the past few decades, bringing a vast level of comfort and safety to what used to be a quite daunting prospect. One such advancement is the development and improvement of dental fillings. These are vital to treating cavities and preserving the overall health of both the teeth and gums.
Treating Cavities
Cavities, which are tiny holes in the teeth, result from tooth decay and are one of the most common dental problems worldwide. When oral hygiene falls by the wayside, it fuels the growth of bacteria in the mouth. This bacteria generates acid which, combined with food debris and saliva, forms plaque that sticks to the teeth. Regular brushing and flossing can remove this plaque. However, when neglect persists, the plaque can eat away at the enamel surface of the tooth, thus forming a cavity.
Without treatment, these cavities can enlarge over time and affect deeper layers of the teeth, potentially leading to severe toothache, infection, and even tooth loss. This is where dental fillings come into play. They fill these holes, prohibit bacteria from entering, and prevent further decay. They serve as the first line of defense in the preservation of oral health.
Types of Filling Materials
Dental fillings are composed of a myriad of materials, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. The most common types are amalgam, composite resin, ceramic, and gold fillings.
- Amalgam Fillings – This is one of the most regularly used types of dental fillings due to its durability and affordability. They are composed of a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. However, their silvery appearance can be a cosmetic disadvantage, making them more visible in the mouth.
- Composite Resin Fillings – Made from a blend of plastic and fine glass particles, these fillings can be matched to the same color as your teeth, providing a more natural appearance. While they may not be as durable as amalgam fillings, they are perfect for minor to moderate areas of decay.
- Ceramic Fillings – Usually made of porcelain, these fillings are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. They match the tooth color and are resistant to staining and abrasion in comparison to composite resin.
- Gold Fillings – Made to order in a lab, these fillings are cemented into place and can last more than 20 years due to their robust nature. They are also highly biocompatible with gum tissues. However, they can be expensive and require more visits to the dentist than other types of fillings.
Dental Fillings The Procedure
The dental filling process begins with numbing the area around the tooth to alleviate discomfort. Your dentist will then remove the decayed part of the tooth using a drill and cleanse the affected area to eliminate bacteria. After the removal of the decay, the dentist will then shape the space to prepare it for the filling.
The procedure varies slightly depending on the type of filling. For direct fillings, like composite resin, the material is placed directly into the cavity, where it hardens. For indirect fillings, like gold, impressions of the tooth are made to create a custom filling in the lab. This filling is then cemented into the prepared cavity during a subsequent visit.
After the placement, your dentist will finish and polish the tooth. A follow-up visit may be scheduled to check the health of the tooth tissue and ensure that you are not experiencing any discomfort or sensitivity.
Conclusion
Dental fillings, despite the initial discomfort and anxiety around the process, are a vital and effective measure for treating cavities and safeguarding oral health. With good care and regular dental check-ups, these fillings can serve a crucial role in preserving not only the health of your teeth and gums but also your radiant smile. It thus becomes essential for everyone to realize the importance of dental fillings and opt for them when required.