What are Dental Fillings?
Usually completed in a single appointment, a filling is a way to restore or repair a decayed or damaged tooth by returning it to its normal shape and function.
At Anjou Centre Dentaire d'Urgence, we use various types of materials to restore a tooth: composite, amalgam, and ceramic. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
The type of filling that is right for you will depend on the location of the cavity, the extent of the repair needed, any allergies you may have to the materials, and the cost. Discuss your options with your dentist to make an informed choice based on your oral health.
Dental Filling Replacements
Over time, fillings can deteriorate, allowing bacteria to enter and increasing the risk of cavities. Your dentist checks their condition during your exams and may recommend a replacement if needed.
For aesthetic reasons, patients sometimes choose to replace their silver-mercury amalgam fillings with tooth-coloured composite fillings.
Signs You Need a Dental Filling
Cavities form when sugars interact with bacteria on your teeth and make acids that dissolve your enamel. The cavities may form on the chewing surfaces, near the roots, or around existing fillings.
If you're experiencing some or all of the following symptoms, please contact our office for an examination:
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Dark Spots
- Intense or Throbbing Pain
- Chipped or Fractured Tooth
Types of Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings, each with its own advantages depending on your needs, budget, and the location of the tooth being treated. Learn about the options offered at our clinic below.
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Composite restoration
The composite, commonly referred to as “white filling”, is a resin in the form of a paste containing particles of quartz, silica, and zirconium. This product is polymerizable, that is to say, it hardens in the light. It is very aesthetic since a multitude of shades are available in order to imitate the color of the natural tooth. This type of restoration is used on the anterior and posterior teeth.
The stages of a composite filling
- After the application of local anesthesia, the dental surgeon proceeds to cut the tooth by removing with his instruments, the decayed part and/or the defective restoration.
- Then, he cleans the created cavity and prepares the tooth for the insertion of the obturator material. A mild chemical solution, which will make the surface more porous, will be applied in order to facilitate the adhesion of the composite. The dentist may need a matrix in order to properly reconstruct the damaged tooth and to prevent the product from spilling onto the other teeth.
- Once the tooth is prepared, the composite will be inserted in layers. At this stage, the material is malleable, which facilitates the reconstitution of the tooth.
- Once the tooth has been reconstructed, the dentist will polymerize the product (hardening of the composite with blue light)
- Finally, the dentist will adjust the bite and finish by polishing the filling for a nice finish.
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Amalgam restoration
Amalgam is a material that has been used in operative dentistry for over 150 years! It is silvery in color and contains an alloy of mercury, silver, copper and tin. Like the composite, it is used to repair a tooth damaged by decay, a crack or a fracture. It is very durable and can last for several years. We use this product infrequently mainly because it is unsightly. It is used more on the posterior teeth.
The stages of an amalgam filling
- Under local anesthesia, your dentist will remove the decay, if necessary.
- The cavity will then be carefully cleaned and prepared before receiving the new filling.
- If the decay is near the dental nerve, special medication will be applied for additional protection.
- The silver filling will then be inserted, modeled, and then polished to restore the shape and function of your tooth
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Ceramic inlay
After preparing the tooth, the remaining walls can sometimes be very thin, which may compromise the tooth’s structural integrity. In such cases, placing an amalgam or composite filling is not recommended, as the tooth could become too fragile.
A ceramic inlay/onlay restoration is preferable in this situation to help prevent further deterioration of the tooth.
What to Expect After a Dental Filling
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold after a filling treatment with amalgam, composite, or ceramic, but this should calm down shortly as your tooth adapts to the new restoration. You will receive instructions following your treatment. You may also need to see your dentist again for additional adjustments.
Durability of Dental Fillings
Dental restorations are generally very durable and will last for many years. However, they are not permanent and will eventually need to be replaced. Good oral hygiene, healthy eating habits, and regular dental visits will help preserve your new restorations and give you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.