Fillings serve to treat cavities after removing the decayed area of the tooth and replacing the rotted material that used to be there. They also serve to restore cracked or fractured teeth that have been worn down from misuse, as for example nail-biting. There are several types of fillings depending on the material used. Teeth can be filled with gold, porcelain, silver amalgam or plastic and glass materials called composite resin fillings.
Benefits
- Multitude of options
- Durability and strength
- Aesthetics
Who is this procedure for?
- People suffering from teeth cavities or damaged teeth
- Bad breath caused by decayed teeth
Who should not consider this procedure?
- Those who are allergic to mercury or any other component from filling amalgams.
What happens before the procedure?
Before starting the filling procedure, several appointments with the dentist are required for analyses and impressions. During these appointments, dentists should also be informed about possible allergies.
What happens during the procedure?
The first step is to apply local anesthetic. Drilling is the next stage which helps removing the decayed portion. This is done by laser or air abrasion instruments. Once the decay has been eliminated, the dentist removes all bacteria and debris in spaces to be filled. At the end, the filling will be polished to have an aesthetic appearance. In the case of tooth-colored fillings, additional stages are needed, such as applying the tooth-coloring material in layers or using special light to harden each layer. At the end, the usual polishing is performed.
What happens after the procedure?
After the procedure is performed, the filling must be taken care of by paying attention to oral hygiene, visiting the dentist regularly for cleanings.
