Composite Dental Fillings
Cosmetic fillings and restoration are done to restore decayed or damaged teeth. The process involves removing the decayed tooth material, after which the affected area is cleaned and sterilised. Once the filling material has been placed into the cavity, it is closed to ensure that bacteria can’t enter the spaces again. This helps prevent further tooth damage and decay. The common materials used for fillings include gold, porcelain, composite resin, and amalgam.
Types of Fillings
Gold
The gold filling is quite expensive and requires multiple visits to the dentist. Gold filling is custom-made in a dental laboratory before being cemented into place. Gold inlays are highly durable, can withstand pressure while chewing, and are well-accepted by gum tissue.
Amalgam
The fastest and least costly choice of filling, amalgam is structured to be resistant to everyday wear and tear. Since this material is more noticeable than porcelain or composite, it is not usually used in visible areas.
Ionomers
Ionomers are tooth coloured materials that dentists often use for small cavities. Ionomers release a small amount of fluoride, which helps in the prevention of further tooth decay.
Composite Resins
Also known as tooth-coloured composite fillings, composite resins can be designed to match the colour of your teeth, leading to a natural appearance. Composite resins provide durability and are resistant to fracture in case of small to medium-sized fillings. They are suitable for both front and back teeth.
Porcelain
Porcelain fillings are called inlays or onlays, and are produced according to individual specifications in a dental lab. They are then bonded to the affected tooth. They can be custom-designed to match the colour of your real teeth and are resistant to staining, which ensures that you will enjoy a beautiful smile for a long time.
Reasons for needing fillings
There are many reasons why we may need a filling. These include
- Chipped teeth
- Closing space between two teeth
- Cracked
- Broken teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Worn teeth
Symptoms that you might need a filling
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods/drinks
- Pain or tenderness when biting down
- Food getting caught between your teeth which seems new
- An ache in your tooth
- The roughness of a tooth felt by your tongue