A dental filling is a common restorative treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay or trauma. This procedure involves removing the compromised portion of the tooth and replacing it with a durable material to restore the tooth’s function and shape. A buccal filling is a specific type of restoration defined entirely by its location on the outer side of the tooth, facing the cheek. Recognizing this location helps explain why this area is prone to problems requiring attention.
Anatomy: Where the Buccal Surface Is
The term “buccal” refers to the surface of the premolars and molars (back teeth) that faces the cheek. This surface is part of the broader “facial” surface, which also includes the labial surface facing the lips on the front teeth. Buccal fillings are typically placed in the cervical third of the tooth, the area closest to the gumline. In dental charting, restorations here are often classified as Class V lesions because this is where the tooth crown meets the root. The protective enamel is thinnest here and may be absent if the root surface is exposed.
Why Buccal Fillings Are Needed
The anatomical position of the buccal surface makes it uniquely susceptible to two primary problems: dental decay and non-carious lesions. Decay, known as cervical caries, is caused by the accumulation of bacterial plaque at the gum margin. This area is challenging to clean effectively, and if gum tissue has receded, the exposed root surface is softer than enamel and decays more rapidly.
Additionally, the cervical portion is vulnerable to non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), which are losses of tooth structure not caused by bacteria. These lesions result from factors such as abrasion (aggressive toothbrushing), erosion (exposure to acids), and abfraction (micro-fractures caused by clenching or grinding). When NCCLs are deep or cause significant sensitivity, a filling is required to restore the lost tooth structure.
What the Filling Process Involves
The procedure begins with the dentist administering a local anesthetic to numb the area. The next step involves isolating the tooth, which is important due to the constant presence of saliva and moisture from the cheek. Using a small drill or laser, the dentist removes all decayed or damaged tooth material. The prepared cavity is then cleaned thoroughly before the restorative material is placed.
The choice of material is often between composite resin and glass ionomer cement. Composite resin is a tooth-colored material bonded to the tooth structure, offering excellent aesthetics for the visible buccal surface. Glass ionomer is an alternative that chemically bonds to the tooth and slowly releases fluoride, which helps protect the vulnerable area from future decay. Once the material is placed, it is shaped to match the natural contour of the tooth and polished.