Understanding Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are a common and effective solution for treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth. Modern tooth-colored fillings not only repair your teeth but also provide a natural-looking appearance that's virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Important Note:
Today's composite fillings offer both aesthetic and functional benefits, allowing for more conservative treatment that preserves more of your natural tooth structure while providing excellent durability.
Types of Dental Fillings
Composite (Tooth-Colored)
Modern plastic and silica blend.
- Natural appearance
- Preserves tooth structure
- Bonds directly to tooth
- Hardens immediately
- Ideal for visible teeth
Amalgam (Silver)
Traditional metal filling material.
- Extremely durable
- Cost-effective
- Long-lasting
- Ideal for back teeth
- Resistant to wear
Uses & Applications
Common situations requiring fillings.
- Cavity repair
- Chip restoration
- Crack treatment
- Wear protection
- Sensitivity reduction
Benefits
Advantages of dental fillings.
- Stops decay progression
- Restores tooth function
- Prevents further damage
- Improves appearance
- Long-term solution
Why You Might Need a Filling
Tooth Decay (Cavities)
The most common reason for fillings.
- Stops decay progression
- Prevents deeper infection
- Restores tooth integrity
- Eliminates sensitivity
Damaged Teeth
Repair of chips and cracks.
- Repairs minor fractures
- Restores tooth shape
- Prevents further damage
- Improves appearance
Worn Teeth
Treatment for tooth wear.
- Addresses grinding damage
- Restores tooth height
- Improves bite function
- Prevents sensitivity
The Filling Procedure
Preparation
- Thorough examination
- X-ray if needed
- Area numbing
- Decay removal
Filling Placement
- Tooth cleaning
- Material application
- Shape adjustment
- Polish and finish
Aftercare
- Avoid hard foods initially
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Regular check-ups
- Watch for sensitivity