DENTAL FILLING

WHAT IS DENTAL FILLING ?

Dental Filling or Composite restoration is a treatment modality to restore missing tooth structure which was lost due to decay(Cavity) or traumatic accident. Dental Fillings help to fill the lost structure and prevent it from further progression. A filling is also used to repair broken or chipped tooth and/or the teeth which wear off due to certain habits like teeth grinding, nail biting or just by age.

WHEN DOES ONE NEED DENTAL FILLING?

The most common situations where fillings can be required are as below:

  • A hole in your tooth which causes food lodgment
  • Black/Brown spots on the tooth
  • Food stuck between two teeth
  • Chipped or broken tooth
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold food and beverage or air

If you are facing any of the above mentioned difficulties, then there is a chance that you might need a filling. The final decision will be made by us after a thorough oral examination at Complete Dental Solutions .

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE OF DENTAL FILLING?

  • The very first step is to see how severely infected the tooth is, as Dental Filling is only suitable for minor fractures and decay.
  • if required an X-ray would be taken as a part of examination.
  • Depending upon the severity & your pain threshold we may or may not administer local anesthesia to makethe area numb so that you have a comfortable experience.
  • Then the decayed area is cleant thoroughly till a healthy surface of tooth is ready for restoration.
  • A filling is then applied to the area to fill the cavity as per the shape of tooth.
  • Finally, the finished tooth can be polished to achieve a smooth structure that replicates the shape &colour of your teeth.

CONSEQUENCES OF NOT GETTING A DENTAL FILLING DONE

If you have decay & its left untreated because it doesn’t pain then the enamel (outer part of teeth) gets totally destroyed exposing the dentin (the softer part below the enamel).The bacteria in your mouth will come in contact with dentin, causing infection (which is when the pain begins). Once the infection starts, you will feel sensitivity and will then want to get Fillings done. But if you skip this part too and do not get the treatment done on time, then the infection will reach to the nerve(here you will experience sharp pain on eating,drinking water and/or will develop a swelling around the infected tooth which will eventually damage the tooth and then one needs to undergo a Root Canal Treatment. You are also at risk of the infection traveling to the adjacent and opposing tooth making it more severe.

TYPES OF DENTAL FILLINGS

Dental Fillings are of various types. The type of filling to be used will depend upon the condition of decay and other factors such as a person being allergic to a material. The different type of fillings available are:

Composite Filling

These match the color of your teeth. These are preferred if a person does not want their filing to be seen. It is recommended & suitable for front as well as back teeth. It bonds well with the tooth structure. This filling wears off with time just as your natural tooth.

Porcelain / Ceramic Filling

The porcelain filling is best suited if you have serious aesthetic concerns. These cover most part of the tooth, as a result, can be used if the decay is large . This is a long-lasting type of filling which does not stain or wear off easily.

POST TREATMENT CARE FOR DENTAL FILLING

  • You might feel a little different in the treated area, this will last only for a few days as body takes time to accommodate a new surface.
  • Avoid hard or sticky food for a few days.
  • Do not use the restored part of tooth for purposes other than eating eg: bottle opening, nail biting, package tearing etc.
  • If you feel sensitivity for too long or if your dental fillings come out, visit us immediately
  • Maintain a good Oral Hygiene routine by brushing & flossing along with using a mouthwash.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q.1. What is a dental filling, and why do I need one?

A dental filling is a treatment used to restore a decayed, cracked, or damaged tooth. It prevents further decay and restores the tooth’s function and structure.

A dental filling typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity.

No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal to no discomfort. Some mild sensitivity after the treatment is normal and fades within a few days.

The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used:

  • Composite (Tooth-Colored): 5-10 years
  • Amalgam (Silver): 10-15 years
  • Gold Fillings: 15+ years
  • Ceramic Fillings: 10-15 years

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, and avoiding hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours. Regular dental check-ups help ensure your filling stays in good condition.