Dental fillings are the process of restoring damaged or misplaced teeth caused by trauma, decay, or other issues. Different dental filling materials are used to restore the structure and functionality of natural teeth and prevent further decay. There are many different types of dental fillings and dental filling materials available to suit the specific needs of patients.
In the article below, we will explain everything about dental fillings, starting from the introduction to types of dental fillings, dental filling materials, and dental filling aftercare. You can get the best results for your dental fillings by using high-quality materials like Aidite .
Let’s start this exploration and learn more about, dental fillings, their types, dental filling materials, and dental filling aftercare tips.
What Are Dental Fillings:
The process of repairing damaged teeth with the help of specific dental materials is called dental fillings. Fillings are used for different purposes including decay prevention, teeth cracks, broken teeth, or worn-out teeth. A professional dentist decides about the dental filling material and type after a detailed examination of your teeth. They use tools like digital scanners, x-rays, or probes to examine and detect the damage to your teeth. In the case of a cavity, the damaged portion of teeth is removed and the occurring space of teeth is filled with suitable material to prevent the extent of decay. Early treatment and detection of tooth infections or dental filling can be important in preventing big damage.
Different Types of Dental Fillings:
The types of dental fillings are categorized into two main categories, i.e. direct dental fillings and indirect fillings. Both types use specific materials for the filling process and have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s understand more about both types of dental filling and their dental filling materials and dental filling aftercare.
1. Direct Dental Fillings:
The direct dental fillings are directly placed into the cavity during a normal dental visit. These fillings are perfect for smaller cavities and less damaged teeth. The common dental filling materials used for direct fillings are described below for your understanding.
Amalgam:
Amalgam or silver is the most common dental filling material used in direct dental fillings. A mixture of different metals including mercury, tin, copper, and silver is applied to ensure long-lasting durability and results. Amalgam or silver filling is suitable for back teeth like molars to withstand high chewing pressure. They are highly durable but commonly less aesthetic for front teeth due to their metallic appearance. Studies have confirmed that amalgam fillings are safe and secure for use in almost all cases and patients and can withstand for a long time with proper dental filling aftercare.
Composite Resin:
The composite resin is created from a mixture of glass and plastic. These types of dental fillings are a perfect solution for front and visible tooth with their polishing and aesthetics properties. It also provides exceptional bonding ability for durability and additional support. Composite resins are highly strong and long-lasting to be used in medium and small sized cavities.
Glass Ionomer:
The glass ionomer material is made of glass and acrylic. These types of dental fillings are commonly used in children or fillings below the gum line as they release fluoride to prevent further decay. Due to their less strength as compared to composite resin or amalgam, the glass ionomer dental filling material is perfect for temporary fillings and non-load-bearing teeth. You can get the best results from glass ionomer fillings by following the dental filling aftercare strictly.
2. Indirect Dental Fillings:
These are the custom-made dental fillings that require multiple sessions and visits to your dentist. These types of dental fillings are commonly used when a larger portion of teeth is damaged or to cover huge cavities. The common dental filling materials used for indirect fillings are described below with their properties.
Gold:
Gold is a highly resistant and biocompatible dental filling material that can last for years and decades without any issue. The fillings made of gold are custom-prepared according to the patient’s requirement and then cemented into the jaw. The gold fillings are high strong and durable but can not be commonly used due to their expensiveness.
Porcelain:
Porcelain is a highly resistant and colorable material used in filling, specifically as inlays or on lays. Their properties like coloring, durability, and aesthetics make them a popular choice for front teeth. A high-quality porcelain filling can last for years if it is kept with proper dental filling aftercare.
Step-by-Step Procedure of Dental Fillings:
The process of applying dental fillings to a patient includes several necessary steps to be carried out. Here are the basic steps of the filling process that makes it effective and streamlined. To get perfect and top-notch results of any dental filling procedure, you need a high quality brand like Aidite dental.
- Examination:
In this step, the dentist assesses the extent of decay, and damage to your teeth with the help of digital scan, and x-ray. A detailed examination enables the dentist to select the most suitable dental filling material and dental filling types.
- Anesthesia:
Numbing the area of procedure is crucial to ensure a comfortable and painless experience for the patient. Any type of anesthesia can be utilized according to the duration of procedure to prevent patients from any discomfort.
- Removing Decay:
The decay removal is an important step in the process of dental filling. In this step, the decayed or damaged area of the tooth is carefully removed with the help of a laser or a drill.
- Cleaning:
Once the process of removing the cavity is completed, all the area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any bacteria or remaining debris. The dentist uses a dental drill or laser to clean the area of procedure and ready it for the next step.
- Filling Placement:
In this step, the pre-decided dental filling material is carefully placed into the cavity and shaped according to the tooth’s natural contours. This step is crucial to maintain the shape and structure of natural teeth of the patient.
- Polishing of Dental Fillings:
Polishing is the last step in applying filling, and it can be done as a dental filling aftercare step. When the filling is hardened and perfectly adjusted, it is polished for a smooth and aesthetic appearance. The polishing process usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on dental filling types and dental filling material.
Dental Filling Aftercare Tips:
Below are some basic dental filling aftercare tips for you to ensure your oral health and the durability of fillings.
- Do not chew hard foods for a few days after the procedure
- Brush your teeth regularly to maintain oral hygiene
- Use fluoride or other toothpaste that protects enamel against cavities
- Plan a regular checkup with your dentist to monitor the filling
- Avoid chewing gum or sticky foods
- Drink more water to stay hydrated and maintain saliva production in your mouth
FAQs:
What is the normal lifespan of dental fillings?
The lifespan of dental fillings depends on the material and dental filling aftercare routine. The gold and silver fillings can last for decades, the composite resin can last for 5–10 years and the amalgam filling can last for 10–15 years.
What are the common dental filling types used in modern dentistry?
Dental fillings are categorized into two basic types, including direct and indirect fillings. . Direct fillings are done with materials like amalgam, composite resin, and glass ionomor, on the other hand indirect fillings are done with gold and porcelain.
What dental filling material is best for a long lifespan?
Gold is the most durable and long-lasting dental filling material, with a lifespan of over decades.
Conclusion:
The concept of dental fillings has emerged as a reliable and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth and treating cavities. A variety of different dental filling materials and types of dental fillings available to suit any patient’s preferred needs. A proper dental filling aftercare routine is crucial to enhance the lifespan and durability of fillings. Aidite is one of the top brands of dental equipment and filling materials. You can choose their dental filling materials to get professional and top-notch results.