Fillings
Dental fillings are a common restorative dentistry procedure used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. The primary goal of a dental filling is to restore the tooth’s function, integrity, and morphology while preventing further decay or damage.
Here’s a detailed look at what typically happens during a filling:
The process begins with the dentist removing the decayed portion of the tooth using a drill. Once the decay is removed, the cavity is cleaned to eliminate any bacteria or debris. The dentist then fills the cleaned cavity with a suitable filling material and shapes it to match the natural contours of the tooth. Finally, the filling is polished to ensure a smooth finish.
There are several types of dental fillings, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Amalgam Fillings: Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper, amalgam fillings are known for their durability and strength. They are often used for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. However, their silver color makes them less aesthetically pleasing.
- Composite Fillings: These are tooth-colored (white) fillings made from a resin base mixed with powdered glass or quartz. Composite fillings are popular for their aesthetic appeal, as they can be closely matched to the color of natural teeth. They are suitable for both front and back teeth but may not be as durable as amalgam fillings.
Each type of filling material has its own set of benefits and is chosen based on the location and extent of the decay, patient preferences, and budget considerations.
Here’s a detailed look at what typically happens during a filling:
The process begins with the dentist removing the decayed portion of the tooth using a drill. Once the decay is removed, the cavity is cleaned to eliminate any bacteria or debris. The dentist then fills the cleaned cavity with a suitable filling material and shapes it to match the natural contours of the tooth. Finally, the filling is polished to ensure a smooth finish.
There are several types of dental fillings, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Amalgam Fillings: Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper, amalgam fillings are known for their durability and strength. They are often used for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. However, their silver color makes them less aesthetically pleasing.
- Composite Fillings: These are tooth-colored (white) fillings made from a resin base mixed with powdered glass or quartz. Composite fillings are popular for their aesthetic appeal, as they can be closely matched to the color of natural teeth. They are suitable for both front and back teeth but may not be as durable as amalgam fillings.
