Restorations
(Tooth filling)
Dental fillings are used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay and to prevent further decay. Basically, the dentist removes the decay, cleans the affected area, and then fills the cavity with a dental filling material.
Most of us know about silver filling ( Amalgam) which has been used since a very long time. Now a days, tooth coloured fillings are getting more popular.
Filling materials available
- Silver Amalgam
- Glass Ionomer cement
- Miracle mix
- Composites
Though different materials are available, their properties vary. Therefore their uses also vary. The type of filling material depends on the extent of the damage to the tooth, the area, allergies and cost. The dentist decides which material to be used in what case.
Many of us have problem of sensitive tooth, these cervical restorations can be perfect solution if the problem is due to wear off of enamel near the gums.
How long filling lasts depends on the type of tooth cavity, type of material used for the cavity, your chewing habits. So, definite time span can not be given. Some type of filling in a same type of cavity may last for different time period.
In some cases, a crown may be required if the decay has affected a large portion of the tooth. If the decay has reached the nerve, then a root canal treatment will be necessary. Only one of our dentists can detect if you need a dental filling during your routine check ups and usually by checking with special instruments and a dental x-ray.