Tooth fillings are used to restore a tooth with a cavity that has been damaged by decay. The decayed portion is removed from the tooth and the area where the decayed material is then filled in. This is an important process for your oral health as a decaying tooth can quickly evolve into a bigger dental issue. During this process, cracks, fractures, and small holes in your teeth are also repaired so you can regain full tooth functionality. Fillings can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth that have been worn down from habits such as nail-biting or teeth grinding.
Fillings generally last around 10 years depending on the material used and they will need to be repaired or replaced at some point. There are factors that can affect the lifespan of your filling such as your eating habits, your dental hygiene habits, decay around the filling, and if you grind your teeth while you sleep. Continue reading to learn more about fillings, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us!
What Are the Different Kinds of Fillings?
Silver (Amalgam):
Silver fillings actually contain more metals than just silver. They’re an amalgam or mixture of silver, copper, and tin alloy particles as well as elemental mercury.
Composite:
Composite fillings are a very popular option because the color can often be matched to that of the surrounding teeth. They are made from a combination of acrylic and ceramic resins.
Gold:
Gold fillings are much more expensive than amalgam or composite restorations, but they are also more durable. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), gold fillings last an average of 20 years or more.
Ceramic:
Ceramic fillings are made with a type of porcelain and may last 15 years or longer. This type of filling needs to be made by a dental lab or milling machine and is then glued into the tooth.
Glass Ionomer:
These types of fillings are made with a kind of glass and acrylic and can be placed directly in the tooth. They are weaker than other filling materials and are typically used for small cavities near the gum line.
What Steps Are Involved in Filling a Tooth?
- A local anesthetic is used to numb the area around the tooth that is going to be filled.
- A drill, air abrasion instrument, or laser is then used to remove the decayed area.
- Once the decay has been removed, the tooth will be prepared for the filling material by cleaning the cavity of bacteria and debris.
- If the decay is near the root of the tooth a liner made of glass ionomer, composite resin, or other material may be placed in order to protect the nerve.
- After the filling is in, the dentist will finish and polish it.
- If you are receiving a composite filling, the tooth-colored material will be applied in layers and a special light is used that hardens each layer. The material will then be shaped and polished.
You can expect some tenderness and soreness during the first few days after getting your tooth filled, but the procedure does not hurt.
Contact Our Dentist Today for Information on Tooth Fillings and Cracked Filling Repair!
Tooth decay spreads quickly, which is why it’s critical to visit a dentist every six months before more decay appears or infection develops. During a routine dental exam, the dentist will be able to spot signs of tooth decay even before symptoms present themselves.
If you would like additional information about tooth fillings or think you may be experiencing tooth decay, schedule an appointment with our team today. We provide a variety of dental services to those in the Saratoga community including tooth fillings, tooth restoration, tooth extractions, and more. Call today!
