5 Types of Dental Filling
An aching tooth does not always require extraction. Regular dental visits ensure that the dentist checks for tooth decay signs, including a cavity that needs to be filled. Dental filling by the dentist in Pflugerville, TX, is a pain-free restorative dental treatment that takes 20 minutes to an hour.
A dental filling is one of the restorative dental treatments suitable for decayed teeth and minor teeth fractures. The Dentist near Pflugerville examines the patient’s teeth using a dental probe and a liquid that detects caries to decide the best treatment.
An X-ray of the damaged tooth is taken for more information on the precise location of the decay and severity. The dentist will choose the patient’s appropriate filling based on factors like the cavity location, the patient’s medical history, preference, and cost.
Signs of Tooth Cavity
- A hole in the tooth
- Sensitivity on the tooth to drinks and foods that are hot or cold
- Persistent toothache
- White or darker colored stains on the tooth
- Sensitivity to sugared drinks and foods
Types of dental fillings
- Silver amalgam fillings
This type of filling comprises a mixture of minerals like silver, copper, mercury, and tin. This type of filling is widely used since it is inexpensive, durable, and strong. Silver amalgam fillings are fit into a cavity easily and pose no risk of contamination by either blood or saliva.
They are ideal for filling cavities in molars because of their strength since chewing occurs in the molars. Amalgam fillings are fully set in 24 hours after the procedure. The dentist advises against eating hard foods between that period. They last from 10 to 15 years.
- Composite fillings
Composite fillings are aesthetically pleasing since they can be matched closely to the color of the patient’s teeth. These fillings bond to the tooth structure chemically and provide support to the entire tooth. Composite fillings are suitable for small or medium-sized cavities in the areas of the mouth that chew less. Composite fillings are lightly cured. These fillings are set in thick one to two-millimeter layers where a layer takes two to 20 seconds to place. They last for about 5-15 years.
- Ceramic fillings
Ceramic fillings consist mostly of porcelain. This material is tooth-colored, does not stain easily, and is resistant to abrasion. A ceramic filling is a type of indirect filling consisting of Inlays and Onlays. These fillings are cured in seconds and therefore set immediately. This is made possible by the dentist’s blue wavelength light. It lasts more than 15 years.
- Glass ionomer fillings
It is a filling made up of glass and acrylic. These fillings are suitable for filling young children’s teeth and filling done below the gum line. Fluoride from this filling is released to protect the tooth from decay. These fillings are cured similarly to composite fillings, and they last for five years.
- Gold fillings
This is the most durable type of filling, lasting from 10 to 20 years. Gold fillings are strong and do not corrode; however, they are expensive.
There are types of dental fillings similar to a composite filling but are made in the laboratory before being placed. These fillings are called Indirect fillings and require two visits to the dental clinic.
These are suitable when the remaining tooth structure is not enough to support a filling. An impression of the decayed tooth is taken to the dental laboratory to make an indirect filling. The dentist places a temporary filling to protect the tooth during restoration. Two types of indirect filling are inlays and Onlays.
Dental Care after a Filling
After a filling, healing takes place quickly, but the patient may experience teeth sensitivity. This discomfort subsides after a short while. To avoid sensitivity, the patient is advised by our dentist in Pflugerville to:
- Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the filling for some days
- Not take too hot or cold drinks and food
- Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen
- Avoid foods and beverages that are acidic
- Brush and floss gently around the filling
- Use toothpaste that desensitizes the teeth
- Follow good oral care practices
Tooth fillings are not permanent. Gold fillings may last to 25 years but will require to be replaced. If you notice cracks or pain several years after a filling, visit our dentist near you at The Grand Family Dental since these are signs of wear on the tooth filling.
A damaged filling causes the tooth to crack. This will require expensive and complicated additional repair. Visit our dentist in 78660 and find out the best filling materials for your tooth, the cost, and how to care for the filling so that it lasts longer.