This is a medical, therapeutic, and cosmetic procedure in which damaged or affected parts of the tooth are replaced with a compensatory material. The aim is to repair fractures, reduce decay, erosion, and damage, as well as other issues that can affect dental health.
How are dental fillings made?
The process of placing dental fillings involves a few simple steps with the dentist, including:
1. Tooth Anesthesia: The dentist begins by numbing the tooth where the filling will be placed using a local anesthetic. The anesthetic is injected into the gums surrounding the tooth to alleviate pain and prevent any discomfort during the procedure.
2. Decay Removal: After the anesthesia, the dentist uses special tools such as rotary drills or hand instruments to remove the decay and damaged portions of the tooth. The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any remaining decay or dead tissue.
3. Cleaning and Preparing the Tooth: The tooth is cleaned using an antibacterial solution to ensure the removal of any residue or bacteria. Afterward, the treated tooth is shaped to receive the filling by removing any deformities or irregularities in its natural structure.
4. Filling Placement: After preparing the tooth, the appropriate filling material is placed into the cavity or hole that has been formed. The filling is shaped and adjusted to ensure its proper fit and alignment with the surrounding tooth structure.
5. Shaping and Drying the Filling: The dentist shapes the filling and dries it using special light rays or, alternatively, it can be dried using specific materials. This helps in hardening the filling, enhancing its strength and durability.
6. Finishing and Polishing the Filling: After the filling has completely dried, the dentist finishes and polishes it. This is done using special tools to shape and smooth the filling, ensuring it fits perfectly with the tooth and provides a natural appearance.
The patient must follow the dentist's instructions after the procedure, such as avoiding hard or sticky foods for a certain period and maintaining good oral hygiene. Dental fillings can last for a long time if properly cared for.
What are the types of dental fillings?
There are several types of dental fillings used by dentists at Denteva Clinic. This choice depends on the patient's dental health, the extent of damage, and the amount of existing decay. The type of dental filling used by the dentist is determined based on the size of the cavity, the location of the tooth to be treated, and the need for restoration.
1.Composite Fillings: These are made from a mixture of resin, glass, or ceramic materials. Composite fillings are used to repair small cavities in teeth and are characterized by their natural appearance and ability to match the color of the surrounding teeth. They require successive layers and the use of special light to harden them.
2. Metal Fillings: These are composed of a mixture of mercury, silver, copper, and tin. These fillings are typically used in areas that require high strength, such as the back molars. They are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, but they are not transparent and are clearly visible when smiling.
3. Gold Fillings: Gold fillings are one of the oldest types of dental fillings. They are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion and are usually used in the back teeth. However, they are costly and require more time to manufacture.
4. Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings are made from a mixture of glass and organic acids. They are primarily used in front teeth and non-load-bearing surfaces. Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride and have the ability to bond with natural teeth.
5. Ceramic Fillings: These fillings are made from ceramic materials such as porcelain. They are used in restoring damaged teeth and are known for their natural appearance and resistance to corrosion. However, they are often more brittle than composite fillings and require special preparation.
The type of dental filling used by the dentist is determined based on the size, location of the cavity, and the appropriate filling's compatibility with your specific condition and preferences.
