Tooth Fillings

Dental fillings are a fundamental treatment for our dental health. Our teeth deserve to be healthy. Due to bad eating habits and not brushing them regularly, your tooth can decay, and unfortunately, this can cause toothache. We can say that the most important steps to avoid toothache are healthy eating, regular brushing, and visiting the dentist.

What is a tooth filling?

A tooth filling is a treating process that includes cleaning and repairing a decayed or problematic tooth and then filling it with certain materials. The elemental dental filling treatment is the dentist “filling” the inside/edges of the tooth after cleaning the decayed part(s). Dental fillings can be for repairing a cracked, broken, and worn-out tooth when people bite their nails or have tooth-grinding issues.

Types of materials used in dental fillings:

Today, many different materials are used in dental filling treatments. The materials used with your preference and the advice of your doctor are as follows:

Amalgam fillings ( silver filling)

Amalgam fillings as dental fillings date back more than a century. It comprises silver, copper, tin, mercury, and zinc and is quite a durable filling material. One of the best benefits of having amalgam filling is to last over a long period. But due to the mercury, it contains, it is no longer the first choice of dentists. If possible, it is recommended to replace existing amalgam dental fillings with healthier ones. Of course, this replacement must be done very carefully. Considering the toxic effect of mercury, it is a risky operation. Be sure to consult an experienced dentist. It is a high-risk material for some patients, such as pregnant and children.

White composite fillings ( tooth-coloured composite resin)

A composite filling (in other words, a white dental filling) is a preferred type of filling that is a natural tooth colour and has a robust and aesthetic aspect. Aesthetically speaking, the best option for cracked or chipped front teeth. It is one of the most effective treatments for decayed teeth. It does not harm as many teeth as amalgam fillings. Moreover, It is not harmful to human health. Yet, it is relatively more expensive than Amalgam dental fillings. Its durability period is about 5 to 10 years.

Glass ionomer fillings 

Glass ionomer cement is a corrective material made with silicate glass powder. Its purpose is to glue instantly to the tooth and make a solid seal for cavity openings and restorations. Like other dental filling materials, it is a good form of treatment to prevent tooth decay. But it is not as strong as composite fillings and is more costly.

Porcelain-Ceramic fillings

Porcelain/ceramic fillings are very long-lasting dental filling materials. We can also include gold tooth filling in this group. They last over 15 years. It is highly resistant to colour change; therefore, it is more aesthetic in appearance. It can be expensive compared to composite fillings.

Temporary fillings

If there is not enough time to finish and fix a decayed tooth, the dentist might offer a temporary filling. This temporary filling must be replaced by a permanent filling at a more convenient time later.

What is the procedure for a tooth filling?

Dental filling has a straightforward procedure, meaning it is less invasive. Firstly, the dentist uses local anesthesia where the tooth is. Then, she removes the decayed area of the tooth with a drill, an air abrasion, or a laser; this depends on the dental case and the dentist’s choice. Next, the dentist checks to see if the decayed area is cleaned, and then she disinfects the tooth thoroughly and makes it ready for filling. Finally, the dentist puts the filling material in the tooth and finishes the treatment by polishing.

Aftercare of a tooth filling

The care after a dental filling is uncomplicated and straightforward.

• First of all, you should never neglect daily dental care. Get your regular check-up
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year.
• Use Flouride toothpaste or gel.
• Floss regularly.

What are the reasons for dental fillings?

• Decaying Teeth: The most common reason for the requirement of dental fillings is decaying teeth. The accumulation of bacteria on teeth, resulting from the consumption of sugars and starches through food or drink, leads to the formation of plaque. The acids present in plaque soften and dissolve tooth enamel, which is the hard-protective coating on teeth. Subsequently, this process creates minuscule holes that gradually enlarge in size. The need for a filling arises when the holes become significant enough to require restoration.
• Acid erosion: Did you know that the protective enamel coating on your teeth can be worn away by acids found in certain foods and drinks, as well as by medical conditions such as reflux or hiatus hernia? It is important to take care of your oral health to prevent any further damage to your teeth.
  The continuous exposure of a tooth to acid, as in frequent consumption of sugar and starch-rich food and drinks, results in a progressive loss of minerals from the enamel. The appearance of a white spot is indicative of early decay, signifying mineral loss.
• Chipping teeth: It is plausible to have a tooth that has become sharp, broken, or chipped due to an injury or as a result of consuming tough food. Regrettably, this can lead to the exposure of the inner parts of the tooth and consequent erosion over time.
• Attrition and abrasion: Excessive wear and tear of teeth is a dental condition that is caused by the constant grinding of teeth or brushing too hard. When the protective outer layer of teeth, known as enamel, is worn away, the softer inner layer, called dentin, becomes exposed. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, pain, and even tooth decay. It is crucial to address this issue with your dentist, who can recommend appropriate treatment options based on the severity of the condition.

Tooth decay can be halted or reversed through appropriate measures. The enamel of our teeth has the inherent ability to self-repair using minerals present in saliva and fluoride from toothpaste. When required, a qualified dental professional may apply fluoride to expedite the restoration process. However, if the depletion of minerals outpaces their replenishment, the enamel weakens and eventually disintegrates, leading to the formation of a cavity.

If allowed to progress without intervention, tooth decay can result in significant damage to the tooth. In some cases, it may even destroy the tooth. Therefore, it’s imperative to address tooth decay at the earliest to prevent complications such as pain, infection, and tooth loss.

How long does it last?

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices can go a long way in extending the life of your dental fillings. By choosing the convenient materials, your fillings can last up to 20 years with amalgam or around 12-15 years with composite fillings. Inlays and overlays’ lifespan can also last up to 20 years, but this depends on various factors related to your teeth, which your dentist will discuss with you.

It is critical to understand that temporary fillings are not meant to be long-lasting solutions. However, with proper care, they can last for up to three months. Your dentist will likely recommend replacing them before the three-month mark to prevent any potential issues.

Remember, investing time and effort into oral hygiene can pay off in the long run by helping your fillings last longer and preventing the need for frequent dental procedures.

Ways to prevent dental fillings

Taking good care of your teeth is crucial for avoiding tooth decay and the need for fillings. An intact, healthy tooth is better than a filled one, so it is essential to prioritize dental health to keep your teeth in optimal condition.

Fortunately, there are several easy steps you can take to prevent tooth decay, including limiting your intake of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, cleaning between your teeth before brushing, brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, using the right toothpaste, and changing your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head at least once every three months. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your teeth remain healthy and strong, saving you the discomfort and expense of dental fillings.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for healthy teeth and gums. You can achieve this with the help of your dental hygienist or dentist. Follow these simple steps to keep your teeth and gums in good health:

Cut down on sugary or acidic foods and drink. Consuming citrus juices, citric fruits like limes, lemons, oranges, and foods with high concentrations of pickles and tomatoes can lead to erosion of your enamel and worsen tooth sensitivity. The acid present in such foods and drinks is capable of corroding and wearing off your tooth enamel, which can expose the protective dentine layer that constitutes the tooth,

Clean between your teeth before brushing, and brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes,

Use the suitable toothpaste recommended by your dental hygienist or dentist, and change your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head at least once every three months,

Stay away from hard foods. Taking care of your teeth is vital, especially after getting a filling. To avoid cracking your teeth or worsening sensitivity, it is relevant to steer clear of hard foods such as pizza crust, whole apples, ice, raw carrots, nuts, and celery. Additionally, excessive chewing immediately after a filling can be detrimental to the hardening process. Instead, opt for softer foods like mashed potatoes or liquids such as soups and broths. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure the longevity and health of your filled tooth.

These steps are easy to follow and can make a significant difference to your oral health. So, start following them today and enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come!

Our priority is to save your original teeth instead of extracting them. As a result, with our experienced dental team, you will get what you wish for at an affordable price. The stress-free procedure is in Dental Dream Turkey. If you have an old silver filling, do not worry about it; we will replace it with a new one. This replacement procedure is done professionally at Dentodream.

Contact us now, and let’s take care of your teeth together.