Dental fillings are one of the most prevalent and successful treatments in restorative dentistry. Due to cavities, decay, or slight injury to the tooth, a dental filling repairs the shape and function of the tooth and avoids additional damage from occurring. If you feel sensitivity in your teeth, pain on chewing, or external damage to your teeth, then a permanent tooth filling can fix your problem.
In this blog, we’ll explore what dental fillings are, why they’re necessary, the different types available, and what to expect during the procedure.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A filling is a restorative material that is placed inside a cavity or hole in a tooth due to decay, wear, or trauma. The main function of a filling is to restore the integrity of the tooth, prevent further decay, and restore normal function and esthetics.
Once a cavity is created, it leaves a small hole in the enamel, and this can be worsened over time. Filling closes this hole so that no more bacteria can enter and further decay can progress.
If you have been looking for dental fillings near me, you will need to look for a clinic providing safe and durable treatment for your specific oral health requirements.
Why Are Dental Fillings Necessary?
Dental fillings have several advantages over merely filling a cavity. They are needed for this reason:
- Prevent Tooth Decay: Fillings eliminate decayed material and prevent bacteria from continuing their infection.
- Save The Tooth: Filling the tooth early can avoid the necessity for more involved treatment such as root canals or extractions.
- Restore Function: The filled tooth is able to chew and function normally like a healthy tooth.
- Protect Overall Oral Health: Tooth decay, if not treated, can spread to other nearby teeth and cause infections.
- Improve Aesthetics: Current fill material is designed to match perfectly your own natural teeth for an even more beautiful smile.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are several dental fillings, each suited for various needs. The choice will depend on the location of the tooth, the extent of decay, your budget, and your cosmetic preference.
1. Composite Fillings
These are constructed from a tooth-colored resin composite and are now commonly used as a permanent restorative material for front and back teeth. Composite materials evolve at a high rate with better strength, durability, and aesthetics. They merge naturally with your own teeth, so they are the perfect solution for filling small to medium cavities anywhere in the mouth.
2 . Ceramic Fillings
They consist of porcelain, which makes ceramic fillings durable, resistant to stains, and very cosmetic. It is a costly option, though, and they suit people who like naturally colored teeth and their durability.
3 . Glass Ionomer Fillings
These are composed of a combination of glass and acrylic and release fluoride, which can protect the tooth from decay. They are not as long-lasting, though, and are usually applied in children or non-load-bearing teeth.
If you are in search of dental fillings near me, look at the material used, the longevity, and how it suits your dental objectives.
The Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect
If you are undergoing a dental filling, the following is what happens:
Step 1: Examination and Diagnosis
Your dentist will examine your teeth and likely X-rays will be taken to determine the degree of decay.
Step 2: Decay Removal
The dentist will break down and remove the rotten part of the tooth with a dental drill or laser, laying bare the cavity for filling, clean.
Step 3: Filling Placement
The chosen filling substance is inserted into the prepared cavity. When you have a composite filling, the substance is inserted in layers and then hardened with a special curing light.
Step 4: Shaping and Polishing
After the filling hardens, the dentist shapes it to match your bite and polishes the tooth to a shine.
The entire procedure should not exceed 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of teeth to be filled and the kind of filling material to be used.
After-Filling Care and Recovery
Recovery from a filling is usually rapid. However, you may feel some temporary pressure sensitivity, hot, or cold for several days. This is normal and will subside on its own.
- Some advice on how to make your fillings last longer:
- Avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours.
- Maintain good oral hygiene—brush twice daily and floss once a day.
- Have your fillings inspected at routine dental check-ups.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth from further cavities.
Long-lasting tooth fillings can last for decades if properly cared for—composite fillings usually last between 5–10 years, and ceramic ones even more.
When to Visit a Dentist?
You need to visit a dentist if you feel any of the below:
- Sudden sensitivity or pain in teeth
- Holes or discoloration that is noticeable on teeth
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Food that gets stuck between your teeth on a daily basis
If you are looking for dental fillings near me, it would be wise to go to a reliable clinic providing preventive and restorative dental treatment.
Conclusion
Fillings are a convenient, effective, and inexpensive method of restoring your oral health. Whether you’re filling a cavity or replacing an old filling, treating it early is the key to a healthy smile.
At Share and Care Medical Center, we aim to deliver quality dental care with precision, comfort, and personal touch. Our skilled professionals adopt the latest techniques and materials in an effort to witness your long-lasting, functional, and good-looking permanent tooth filling. Book an appointment today and begin a confident, cavity-free smile.
