Teeth cavity is one of the common dental problems experienced by many people. Cavity development on the teeth further decays it more that makes it necessary for either teeth removal or getting complex treatments like root canal treatment or other.

It generally causes pain and in some cases, it also causes infection in the pulp region. One of the better ways to get rid of this dental problem is with teeth filling. This treatment is also useful for other types of dental problems too.

What are teeth filling?

This dental treatment involves filling the hole in the teeth with the dental material. The hole in the tooth can be either due to tooth decay, crack, fracture, or other dental problems.

When do you need teeth filling treatment?

Here are some situations when one will need dental teeth filling treatment:

Dental Cavities

The most common reason for getting a dental filling is to treat dental cavities or decay. Cavities are areas of decay that result from bacterial activity in the mouth, which erodes tooth enamel. Filling the cavity helps to restore the tooth’s structure and prevents further decay.

Tooth Fractures or Cracks

Teeth can chip or crack due to various factors such as trauma, biting hard objects, or grinding teeth. Fillings are used to repair these fractures and prevent further damage.

Tooth Wear

Over a period, teeth can experience wear in people who grind their teeth or have poor oral habits. Fillings can be used to rebuild the worn-down areas, restoring the proper tooth shape and function.

Tooth Sensitivity

Some people experience tooth sensitivity when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods or beverages. Fillings can be used to cover exposed dentin or sensitive areas, which can reduce sensitivity.

Cosmetic problems

Dental fillings can also be used for cosmetic purposes to repair minor imperfections in teeth, such as small gaps between teeth or discoloration.

Root Surface Decay

When tooth decay affects the root surface due to gum recession, fillings can be placed on the root to address the decay and protect the exposed area.

Replace Old or Damaged Fillings

Fillings have a validity and they can wear out or become damaged over time. Replacing old or damaged fillings helps maintain proper dental health.

Preventing Further Decay

Dental fillings can be used as a preventive measure when early signs of decay are detected. Filling these small areas can prevent the decay from progressing and causing more significant problems.

Pulp Protection

Deep cavities which approach the nerve or pulp of the tooth can be treated with fillings to protect the sensitive inner tissues from infection or inflammation.

What process is followed during the teeth filling treatment?

Here are some of the simple steps followed during the teeth filling treatment:

Examination and Diagnosis

The dentist will first examine your teeth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the decay or damage in the affected tooth. Based on the findings, they will decide whether a dental filling is suitable.

Anesthesia

Dentists will administer a local anesthetic which will make that area numb during the treatment process. This ensures that you don’t feel any pain or discomfort during the treatment.

Removal of Decay

Once the tooth and surrounding area are numb, the dentist will use a dental drill or other instruments to remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. This step is crucial to create a clean and healthy surface for the filling material to bond effectively.

Tooth Preparation

After removing the decay, the dentist will shape the cavity to create a space that securely holds the filling material. The preparation process helps ensure that the filling will be stable and long-lasting.

Application of the Filling Material

There are different types of filling materials available, such as amalgam (silver fillings) and composite resin (tooth-colored fillings). The dentist will place the chosen filling material into the prepared cavity, layer by layer, and use special tools to shape and mold it to fit the tooth’s contours.

Curing (for composite fillings)

If a composite resin filling is used, the material needs to be hardened using a special curing light. The curing process helps the filling material bond firmly to the tooth structure.

These general steps are followed during the teeth filling procedure. You further need to follow all the instructions given by Orthodontists after the completion of the treatment process.