Things You Should Know Before Getting a Tooth Filling

Dentists use tooth fillings to replace the decayed parts in infected teeth and to avoid the infection and from spreading. That, of course, is the primary purpose; the other is to ease the pain and discomfort that the patient might be experiencing due to the decay. Dentists usually remove the decayed section, by drilling it out – it is the more traditional way of doing it. However, the best dentist in Ernakulam uses newer, sophisticated technology such as air abrasion or a laser, to remove the decayed parts. These techniques are nearly painless and more precise. A dentist may also use special gels to dissolve the infected tissue.

The other instances where a dentist may use tooth filling is to fix broken or cracked teeth. The procedure of tooth filling is simple and can be completed within one sitting. Given below are the major things you should know before getting a tooth filling. 

Why do you need a tooth filling?

Dental decay or dental caries cause the tooth to become infected and disintegrate. The soft dental tissues get eaten away, creating cavities, which, while being painful, can also cause severe dental problems, if left untreated. The decayed part of the tooth has to be removed, and the cavity that is created needs to be filled. Tooth filling, if not done in time, can increase the risk of progression of caries and may require a more complicated root canal treatment and dental crown. Only a dentist can decide the procedures required, depending on the severity of the problem.

Tooth Filling- Things You Should Know

• Drilling: The tooth is first drilled, to remove the decayed portion. The sound of the drill and the thought of the drill machine inside the mouth can be scary. However, it is a painless procedure that gets finished within minutes
• Local anaesthesia: The dentist may administer a shot to numb the area around the infected tooth in case of special circumstances like extreme sensitivity. The patient loses all sensation in the teeth and gums, in that region, and feels no pain. The effect of the anaesthesia lasts a few hours, within which time the dentist completes the job
• Prepping the tooth: Once the dentist removes the decayed bits, they flush out the cavity, cleaning it, ensuring no debris or bacteria remains. It is an essential step before the filling is done. Next, depending on the depth of the cavity, the dentist will line the cavity with resin, so the nerves are protected
• Cost of dental fillings: The cost of the dental fillings varies, depending on the material. Some are costlier than others. Some are stronger, last longer and come with a guarantee. However, they all serve the same purpose
• Procedures involved: The dentist prepares the filling at the time of the operation and fills in the cavity in layers. A unique blue coloured light is then focused on the tooth with the filling, to hasten the polymerisation of the composite material that is used
• Shaping the tooth: Once the structure of the tooth is formed the dentist shapes and polishes it, to give the tooth a natural look. Excess material is removed, to ensure the teeth are correctly aligned and the bite is perfect.
• How long does the filling last: On an average, a filling can last anywhere between 4-7 years. Some fillings do last longer than that and even lifelong. It depends on the wear and tears that the tooth endures

Types of Dental Fillings

There is a whole range of tooth fillings for you to choose from, and each of them has their plus and minus points. Broadly speaking, they differ in strength, material and quality. A patient can consult the dentist and decide on the filling best suited for them, based on aesthetics and cost.

Composite Filling

Composite fillers are among the most popular because they look natural, and it is easy to make them match the colour of the patient’s teeth. They are ideal for filling small cavities and are relatively hard-wearing. 

Silver Amalgam Filling

Silver Amalgam fillings are among the oldest filling material that is in use. It is a durable material, that doesn’t crack under pressure, and is perfect for filling the molars, located at the back of the mouth. The only drawback is that the filling is easily visible because of its colour. The decisive point is that it is inexpensive and durable.

Porcelain Filling

Porcelain or ceramic fillings are visually appealingly, and resemble the natural teeth, matching the exact colour and texture of the teeth. They do not stain easily, come with a guarantee and are among the costliest fillings, in the market.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

The glass ionomer filling is a high-tech dental restorative material, made from a combination of substances that cause a steady release of fluoride inside the tooth cavity. This speciality makes it favourable for the teeth, as it helps protect them. However, the downside of this filling is that it has to be replaced every few years. 

The cost of dental fillings depends mostly on the type of filling, selected. Imported filling materials cost more than locally procured materials. However, on average, the cost per tooth is within a few hundred. By choosing the best dentist in Ernakulam, you can maintain your dental health. Don’t let the cost be a factor. A trained and skilled dentist will advise you on the best options available to you, with their pros and cons. Further, they will do a perfect job, without damaging your teeth or putting them at risk of further damage. Hope you got well-informed on tooth filling and the procedures involved in it.