A cavity filling is a common dental procedure designed to halt the progression of dental decay and restore the affected tooth structure. Dental decay begins when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the hard outer layer of the tooth, the enamel. If left untreated, this erosion creates a hole that can deepen and threaten the entire tooth. The filling process removes the compromised material and seals the void, preventing further bacterial invasion and reinforcing the tooth’s integrity and function.
Preparation and Procedure Steps
The process begins with the dentist reviewing recent X-rays and assessing the extent of the decay. To ensure comfort, a local anesthetic is administered, usually via injection, to numb the specific area surrounding the tooth. The numbing effect takes a few minutes to fully set in, preventing pain during the subsequent steps.
Once numb, the dentist uses a high-speed dental handpiece or a laser to remove all traces of the decayed tooth structure. This removal phase is important, as any remaining diseased tissue could allow the cavity to continue growing beneath the new filling. After the decay is cleared, the prepared space is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate bacteria and debris.
For modern tooth-colored fillings, the surface is treated with a mild acid gel (etchant) to microscopically roughen the enamel. This allows a bonding agent (liquid adhesive) to penetrate and form a strong link to the tooth structure. The filling material is then applied in small increments, shaped to match the natural contours. Each layer of the composite resin is hardened using a specialized blue curing light. The final step involves polishing the filling and checking the bite (occlusion) to ensure the restoration does not interfere with normal chewing.
Understanding Filling Material Options
The choice of filling material depends on the cavity’s size, location, and aesthetic preference. Composite resin is a tooth-colored option made from a plastic mixture reinforced with fine glass particles. It is favored for its ability to match the natural tooth shade, making it ideal for visible areas, and it bonds directly to the tooth structure. However, composite resin may be less durable for large restorations in high-stress areas, and it can be more moisture-sensitive during placement.
Dental amalgam, often called a “silver filling,” is a durable, cost-effective option made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Amalgam is known for its longevity and strength, often lasting 15 to 20 years, making it a reliable material for chewing surfaces. Its main disadvantage is its silver color, and its placement requires the removal of more healthy tooth structure to create a retention shape.
A third option is glass ionomer cement (GIC), a tooth-colored material that releases small amounts of fluoride, offering protection against further decay. GICs form a chemical bond with the tooth and are less sensitive to moisture than composite resin. However, they are less durable and are often used for smaller restorations, temporary fixes, or in non-biting areas.
Immediate Post-Procedure Expectations
Following the procedure, the initial sensation will be lingering numbness from the local anesthetic, which typically lasts between one to three hours. Avoid chewing on the treated side until feeling returns completely to prevent accidentally biting the cheek, lip, or tongue. For composite fillings, the material is fully set upon leaving the office, but waiting for the numbness to subside before eating is still advised.
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is common for several days or up to two weeks following the filling. This occurs as the tooth adjusts to the new material, especially if the decay was deep. This temporary discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. If sensitivity increases, persists past two weeks, or if the filling feels “high” when biting down, a follow-up appointment is necessary for adjustment.