When you have a cavity or some portion of your teeth has decayed, you can get a filling to cover the portion to prevent food from getting stuck. They can also be used to repair cracked or chipped teeth or other such problems.
How a Dental Filling is Done?
Filling a tooth does not require a considerable amount of time. It can be done in one sitting only.
- Your dentist will first use local anesthesia to numb the area that needs treatment.
- A drill or a laser is then used to clear the decayed portion. The instruments may vary from the comfort of the dentist to the extent of the decay.
- Once the decay is all cleared, the space for the filling is prepared. If the decay is near the root, your dentist may put a liner of glass ionomer, composite resin, or other material to protect the nerve inside.
- After the filling is complete, the area is polished for a better look.
In the case of tooth-colored filling, several additional steps are required for a good smile.
Types of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings can be of many kinds, considering the immense advancement in science and technology. Since the traditional varieties, many modern materials have popped up, which do not decrease the usefulness; instead help in increasing look and comfort.
Some age-old materials include gold, base metal alloys, and dental amalgams.
Other types of fillings are:
Porcelain
Porcelain dental materials include porcelain, ceramic, or glass-like fillings. They are used as Inlays, Onlays, crowns, or even aesthetic veneers. Nowadays, porcelain materials are more preferred to other varieties since they mimic natural tooth enamel.
Composite Fillings
This is a mixture of acrylic resin and finely ground glass-like particles that produce the tooth's natural color after restoration. They provide good durability and resistance to small and medium-size teeth, which need to withstand moderate pressure during chewing.
Ionomers
Glass ionomer is an enamel-colored material which is a mixture made from acrylic acids and fine glass powders. They are generally used for filling the root of the tooth to prevent nerve damage. Glass ionomers release a small amount of fluoride that helps patients with high decay risk. Since they cannot take the load, they are used as underlays or places where not much burden falls.
To get high-quality dental fillings and other cosmetic dental procedures, book an appointment with Dr. Jeanne V. Devi, DDS. Call us at (626) 795-2544 or visit our website for more details. We are located at 595 E Colorado Blvd Suite 603, Pasadena, CA 91101.
