Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are sometimes needed; when teeth have developed cavities or more serious decay. A dental filling procedure is risk-free and mostly painless. The result of a dental filling is a healthier tooth, better looks and improved oral health. Your local Campsie Dentist can perform all dental fillings and have an array of different materials we can use to restore your damaged teeth. What follows is a summary of the filling procedure, a list of types of amalgam that can be used and tips on how to care for your tooth following a filling procedure.
What Happens In A Filling Procedure?
In a filling procedure, the dentist will begin by gently applying a numbing agent to the gums surrounding the treatment site. An anesthetic injection is then given to the gums to numb the area completely. The dentist then uses a specialised tool to excavate the area of the tooth or teeth that has suffered from decay. The operating dentist will skillfully make a mould of the cavity and insert the resulting object in the space created earlier during the procedure. The filling then adheres to the remaining tooth tissue.
Types of Filling
There are four primary varieties of filling: amalgam, composite, glass ionomer and gold inlays.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are the most-common option for filling in cavities. They are made of oxygenated silicon which becomes non-crystaline glass. Porcelain fillings are usually shaded to be tooth-coloured. Porcelain fillings last five to ten years on average and are a safer alternative to amalgam fillings that contain mercury. Mercury components of amalgam fillings can release mercury vapour while chewing which can cause blood poisoning.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are strong, but are usually softer than amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are tooth coloured and are made from powdered glass quartz, silica or other ceramic particles combined with resin. A light is shone on composite fillings to set them into place following attachment to the tooth undergoing restoration. With proper care, this type of filling can remain natural-looking. However, if consistently unclean, the fillings can become stained.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings form a chemical link with the tooth. They may also release fluoride, which helps to prevent further tooth decay. This type of filling is fairly weak. Because of this, they are usually only used on baby teeth and ‘non-biting’ surfaces such as around the ‘necks’ of the teeth. Little preparation is needed as the filling bonds directly to the tooth.
Gold Inlays
Gold inlays are hard, durable and widely applicable. They can last for many years and retain their shape and shine. The lustre of gold fillings does not fade readily and will produce a quality smile.
Caring For Fillings
Once a filling procedure has been performed, fillings can be cared for with three main routine tasks.
- Regular brushing: Brushing twice per day after meals produces the best results.
- Flossing: Using dental floss to remove detritus from between the teeth once per day is ideal.
- Regular check-ups: See your local Campsie dentist once per year to ensure your teeth retain their aesthetic function and to prevent further damage to your teeth.
Contact Campsie Laser Dental
When you visit the dental professionals at Campsie Laser Dental we will schedule an appointment for fillings if we notice sufficient damage to a tooth or teeth. We have a good reputation in our local community and have been performing fillings procedures on patients with a need for fillings since our clinic opened. Call our clinic on 02 9789 6219 and we can refer you to diagnosis and treatment.