A dental filling restores a tooth damaged by decay. Dentists “fill in” these compromised areas to prevent further deterioration and restore the tooth’s structure and function. This helps halt cavity progression, alleviating pain and sensitivity, and preserving overall oral health.
Preparing for Your Filling
The process begins with a thorough dental examination to confirm the presence and extent of decay. This involves visual inspection and dental X-rays to detect hidden cavities, particularly those between teeth or beneath existing restorations.
Next, the area is prepared with local anesthesia. A topical numbing gel is applied, followed by an injection of local anesthetic into the gum tissue around the affected tooth. This ensures the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
After numbing, the dentist isolates the tooth using a dental dam. This thin sheet of material maintains a dry and clean working environment. The dental dam prevents saliva contamination and acts as a protective barrier.
The Filling Procedure
Once the tooth is numb and isolated, the dentist removes decayed or damaged tooth material. A dental drill, equipped with rotating burrs, precisely cuts away the compromised tooth structure.
The drill uses a water spray system to cool the tooth and prevent overheating. After decay removal, the dentist cleans and shapes the cavity. This shaping creates a stable foundation for the filling material and ensures proper adhesion.
For composite resin, a bonding agent is applied to create strong adhesion. The filling material is then placed into the cavity and molded to match the tooth’s natural contours. A specialized curing light hardens and bonds the resin to the tooth. Finally, the dentist polishes the filling and checks the bite.
After Your Filling
The local anesthetic wears off over several hours after a filling. Avoid eating during this time to prevent accidentally biting numb areas. Some sensitivity in the treated tooth is common once numbness subsides, especially with hot or cold foods or when biting down.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort. Stick to soft foods for the first day or two. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods to prevent dislodging the new filling or causing irritation. Limit acidic or sugary foods and drinks, as they can affect the filling’s integrity and increase decay risk.
Good oral hygiene is important after a filling. Continue to brush gently and floss daily, focusing on the filled tooth. Rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and reduce irritation. If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks, or if there is pain, swelling, or an uneven bite, contact your dentist for an evaluation.
Understanding Different Filling Materials
Several materials are used for dental fillings. Amalgam fillings, or “silver fillings,” are a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, copper, and other metals. They are durable and cost-effective, suitable for molars, and can last 15 to 20 years.
Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored, made from a resin base with glass, quartz, or ceramic particles. Their aesthetic appeal makes them popular for visible teeth, as they can be matched to the natural tooth shade. While strong, they typically last 5 to 10 years.
Glass ionomer is a tooth-colored material made from silica glass powder and acrylic. They are sometimes used for children’s teeth or areas with less chewing pressure because they release fluoride, which helps protect against further decay. They are weaker than composite resin and may only last a few years. The choice of material depends on cavity location, damage extent, aesthetic preferences, and cost.