Dental Filling Options

A dental filling is a procedure carried out to help restore the structure and ability of a missing or fractured tooth. After this procedure, the tooth is made to appear natural and behave as one. To achieve this, different materials can be used.

The type of filling material to be used depends on various factors such as the price or what your dentist decides is best for you. New Delhi Dental offers filling options for all dental conditions.

Before you settle for a particular filling method, you need to know its side effects, its durability, and the finish appearance. When going for checkups, the dentist may use a mirror to help examine the teeth. After the extent of damage is identified, he will advise on the suitable medication. The following are examples of materials used for filling.

Metals

Metals used for filing can be gold and silver. Each metal has a unique appearance and color and strength. Gold is strong and durable, meaning it can withstand forces exerted when chewing. The strength of gold and aesthetics property makes it a good choice for filling. It, however, has some disadvantages. The number of visits made to see the dentist will be increased. The expense of fitting a gold filling is higher compared to other filling materials. This is because gold cast is expensive.

On the other hand, silver has almost the same properties as gold. It is strong and durable. A silver filling is cheaper than gold filing due to its availability. Silver, however, lacks the aesthetic properties of gold. This is because the color does not match that of natural teeth.

Some people may be allergic to the silver amalgam used in filling due to the presence of mercury. The mercury in the amalgam can release mercury vapor. This vapor becomes dangerous when inhaled as it may affect other organs such as the kidney and brain. For this reason, it is crucial to consult your dentist first for more advice before a silver filling is used.

Ceramics

The material used for ceramic filling is porcelain. This method is preferred due to its aesthetic property. It resembles the color of the teeth, thus making it unrecognizable to others. It is also strong and durable. The cost of filling using this material can compare to that of gold. The results are, however, outstanding compared to other methods available.

Composite filling

In this method, synthetic resins are used for filling. This method is preferred for filling cracks, decay, and fractures on the tooth. Composite fillings are long-lasting and strong and can remain intact for up to five years.

Glass ionomer

This filling forms a strong chemical bond with the teeth. This filling is advisable for use when the decay is in excess. It releases fluoride to the teeth, which helps to prevent further decay. Glass ionomers are preferred for use on baby teeth or around the tooth neck or other surfaces not used for biting.

Steps Involved in a Tooth Filling Procedure

Local anesthesia

Anesthesia will be given to help numb the pain in the area to be filled. You can make a prior inquiry to now the type of anesthesia to be used and whether it will work for you.

Removal of tooth decay

Under this, the enamel is cut through using a drill. This will help in the removal of any deterioration in the tooth to be filled. After the extraction, shaping is done to create the required space for filling.

Etching

This involves etching the tooth with an acid gel before the filling is placed. This helps the filling to be bonded.

Application of resin

A layer of resin will be applied depending on the type of dental filling. Hardening is then done using a bright light that helps it gain full strength quickly.

Polishing

This is the final step for any filling. Here the tooth is polished to help it attain the required appearance or shape.

The above filling options will work if you follow the dentist’s instructions. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene even after filling to enhance the strength of the teeth. This will help them stay in the best conditions and last longer.