Everything You Need to Know About Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a familiar procedure in general dentistry in Roseville and are crucial for maintaining good oral health. Whether it’s from a cavity, a cracked tooth, or decay, fillings restore teeth to their original shape and function. Most individuals will require a dental filling at some point in their lives. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about dental fillings.

What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling is a material used to fill a cavity in your tooth. When a tooth is ruined or damaged due to decay, a filling is applied to restore its shape and prevent further damage. There are several materials dentists use to fill cavities, each with their own advantages.

• Amalgam Fillings: Made from a mix of silver, mercury, tin, and copper, these silver-toned fillings are prized for their strength, though they fall short in terms of aesthetics.
• Composite Fillings: Composite fillings, crafted from tooth-colored resin, are ideal for cavities in visible areas. Though they closely resemble your natural teeth, these fillings might not last as long as other materials.
• Gold Fillings: Known for their strength and lo, gold fillings are often recommended for back teeth. They are more expensive than other options but last for many years.
• Ceramic Fillings: Ceramic fillings are durable and match the color of your natural teeth. While they offer greater resistance to staining than composite fillings, they may come at a higher cost.
• Resilon Fillings: This is a newer material that can replace amalgam. It’s biocompatible and used primarily for root canal fillings.

Why Do You Need a Dental Filling?

You might need a dental filling if you have a cavity, a crack in a tooth, or if a tooth has been worn down. Without fillings, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause further damage, leading to more serious problems. Here’s why fillings are necessary:

• Cavities: Tooth decay is a no.1 cause of cavities. Sans a filling, the decay can spread and lead to tooth loss.
• Cracked Teeth: A crack in your tooth may not always cause pain, but it can still leave your tooth vulnerable to further damage. A filling helps prevent that.
• Damaged Teeth: Whether from wear and tear or injury, dental fillings restore the structure of your tooth and prevent future decay.

Types of Dental Fillings

Here’s a deeper look at the types of fillings and their advantages:

• Amalgam Fillings:
  • Benefits: Durable, cost-effective, and strong for molars.
  • Drawbacks: Visible, contains mercury, may expand or contract with temperature changes.
• Composite Fillings:
  • Benefits: Natural look, bonds to the tooth for added strength.
  • Drawbacks: Less durable than amalgam, may wear down more quickly.
• Gold Fillings:
  • Benefits: Extremely durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion.
  • Drawbacks: Expensive and requires multiple visits for placement.
• Ceramic Fillings:
  • Benefits: Resistant to staining, looks natural, and lasts long.
  • Drawbacks: More expensive and can be difficult to repair if damaged.
• Resilon Fillings:
  • Benefits: Biocompatible, durable, and smooth.
  • Drawbacks: Less commonly used, expensive, and may require special equipment.

The Dental Filling Procedure

Here’s what you can expect when you get a dental filling:

Examination: Your dentist will examine your tooth, often using an X-ray to determine the extent of the decay.

Numbing: Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the affected area, ensuring you won’t feel discomfort during the procedure.

Cleaning: The dentist will remove any decayed tooth matter.

Filling Application: After cleaning, the filling material is applied in layers. For composite fillings, a special light hardens each layer as it’s placed.

Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling is set, the dentist carefully contours it to your tooth’s natural shape and polishes it to a smooth surface.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Various factors influence how long a dental filling lasts.

• Amalgam Fillings: Last around 10-15 years or longer.
• Composite Fillings: Typically last 5-7 years.
• Gold Fillings: Can last over 15 years with proper care.
• Ceramic Fillings: Tend to last 10-15 years.
• Resilon Fillings: Can last 10 years or more, depending on usage.

Several factors can leave an impact on the longevity of your filling, including how well you care for your teeth and your chewing habits.

Are Dental Fillings Safe?

Dental fillings are generally secure, but there are some concerns, particularly with amalgam fillings, which contain mercury. However, research shows that the amount of mercury in dental fillings is not harmful. Fillings are regulated by dental associations, ensuring that the materials used are safe and effective for patients.

If you’re concerned about mercury fillings, talk to your dentist about alternative materials like composite or ceramic fillings.

Aftercare Tips for Your Dental Filling

Caring for your filling is crucial to its longevity. Here are some tips to maintain your filling:

• Avoid hard foods: Give your filling time to set before eating hard or sticky foods.
• Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent cavities from forming around your filling.
• Limit acidic drinks: Soda, coffee, and citrus fruits can erode the filling over time.

Moreover, you should visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. A dentist near you can ensure that your fillings are still in good condition.

When to Replace a Filling

Over time, fillings can wear down, crack, or become loose. Here’s when to consider replacing a filling:

• Pain: If you feel pain or pressure when chewing on the tooth, it could indicate that your filling is no longer working.
• Cracking or Chipping: If the filling becomes damaged, it may need replacing to prevent further issues.
• Discoloration: If your filling becomes discolored, it may need to be replaced for cosmetic reasons.

It’s important to have regular dental check-ups to make sure that your fillings are intact and functioning properly.

Final Thoughts

Dental fillings are an essential part of upkeeping your oral health and restoring your tooth’s function and appearance. Whether you need a filling due to a cavity or tooth damage, your dentist can help guide you through the process. If you need dental fillings in Roseville, CA, consider visiting Eureka Ridge Dentistry for expert care and advice.