A dental filling is a type of restorative dentistry treatment used to repair minimal tooth fractures, tooth decay or otherwise damaged surfaces of the teeth. Dental filling materials, which include composite, porcelain and silver amalgam, may be used to even out tooth surfaces for better biting or chewing.
Dentist will begin the dental filling procedure by preparing the tooth and necessary surrounding areas in order to restore the damaged area. The decay or damage is removed and the area is cleansed to remove bacteria or debris before it is “filled” with the filling materials.
How long do dental fillings last?
Each filling is unique and the lifespan of a filling depends on the following major factors:
- Oral Hygiene
- Oral Health
- Materials used
- Size and Location of the filling
Your dentist at Raffles Dental will be able to advise on how long your dental fillings will last, and if required, suggest a replacement or additional treatment.
What do dentist use for fillings?
Composite fillings are mercury-free, plastic material matching natural tooth colour used to replace missing parts of a tooth. Since they bond to the tooth, composite fillings restore most of the original strength and natural appearance of the tooth. Besides offering durability and strength, many patients opt for composite fillings, as they are also more aesthetically pleasant.
Porcelain fillings are tooth-coloured fillings made from ceramics. They are more resistant to staining and abrasion and can last for longer years. Porcelain fillings are custom made to fit your cavity perfectly as well as match the rest of your teeth.
Why do fillings fall out?
Fillings may come loose because of decay around the filling or if you have bitten on something that is too hard. Make an appointment with a dentist to determine the best treatment option.
|If your tooth can be repaired||Your dentist will replace the dislodged filling.|
|If your tooth's nerve is exposed or there is deep decay||Your dentist will refer you to a specialist for root canal treatment and a dental crown.|
|If the only option is to extract your tooth||Your dentist will present a treatment plan to leave the space untouched or replace your tooth with a fixed bridge, removable denture or a dental implant.|
What happens if you do not get a dental filling?
Tooth decay can only worsen with time. If you do not seek treatment, the decay can progress into a toothache, and may eventually require further treatment or result in the loss of that tooth.
When the decay reaches the nerve of your tooth, you may begin to experience extreme tooth sensitivity and pain. Eventually a dental abscess may form and the tooth might fracture and may have to be extracted.
On the other hand, if treatment is sought early, a dental filling could be placed to restore the decaying tooth. Your dentist will be able to recommend the suggested treatment for your decayed tooth.
How can I tell if my dental filling has fallen out?
- You feel a small, hard object in your mouth after biting on something hard.
- You feel a crack or a hole when you run your tongue over your tooth,
- You may find food being stuck in or around the tooth.
- You feel discomfort, pain or sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
Can you eat right after a filling?
You can generally eat right after your dental appointment, depending on the type of dental filling used. Should your mouth feel numb due to local anesthetic from the procedure, it is advisable to start eating after the effects of the local anesthetic have worn off. This is to prevent accidental cheek biting or burns from hot foods. Your dentist will be the best person to give you guidance on this during your visit at Raffles Dental.