Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth damaged by cavities, decay, or minor fractures. The purpose of a filling is to restore the tooth’s structure and function while preventing further decay or damage. Fillings are one of the most common procedures in dentistry.

Types of Dental Fillings:

1. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings):

   • Material: Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, copper, and tin.
   • Pros: Durable and strong, ideal for molars (back teeth) where chewing pressure is highest. Less expensive compared to other options.
   • Cons: Silver color makes them less aesthetically pleasing, and some patients may have concerns about the mercury content (though it is generally considered safe).
   • Lifespan: Can last 10-15 years or more.

2. Composite Resin Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings):

   • Material: Made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles.
   • Pros: Matches the color of your natural teeth, making them ideal for front teeth or visible areas. Less tooth structure needs to be removed for placement compared to amalgam.
   • Cons: Less durable than amalgam and may wear out faster, especially in large cavities or areas of heavy chewing.
   • Lifespan: Typically lasts 5-10 years but can be shorter in some cases.

3. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings):

   • Material: Made from porcelain.
   • Pros: Extremely durable and resistant to staining, blends well with natural teeth. Aesthetic appeal is similar to composite but more durable.
   • Cons: More expensive than composite or amalgam fillings.
   • Lifespan: Can last 10-15 years or longer.

4. Gold Fillings (Inlays/Onlays):

   • Material: Made from a gold alloy.
   • Pros: Very durable and strong, can last for many years without corroding.
   • Cons: Very expensive and not tooth-colored, making them less common. Requires more than one dental visit to place.
   • Lifespan: Can last 20 years or more.

5. Glass Ionomer Fillings:

   • Material: Made from acrylic and a component of glass.
   • Pros: Releases fluoride, which can help protect the tooth from further decay. Often used for fillings below the gumline or in baby teeth.
   • Cons: Weaker than composite or amalgam fillings and more likely to wear down or break.
   • Lifespan: Typically lasts around 5 years.

Dental Filling Procedure:

1. Numbing the Area:

   • The dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure the procedure is painless.

2. Removing the Decay:

   • Using a dental drill or laser, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth to clean the cavity and prepare it for the filling.

3. Cleaning the Tooth:

   • The dentist thoroughly cleans the cavity to ensure no debris or bacteria remains before placing the filling.

4. Placing the Filling:

   • The dentist applies the filling material. For composite fillings, the material is applied in layers and hardened with a special curing light between each layer.

5. Shaping and Polishing:

   • After the filling is placed, the dentist shapes it to match the natural contours of the tooth and polishes it to smooth the surface and ensure a comfortable bite.

Advantages of Dental Fillings:

• Restores Tooth Function: Fillings restore the ability to chew and speak properly by repairing damaged teeth.
• Prevents Further Decay: Sealing off the cavity prevents bacteria from re-entering the tooth and causing more damage.
• Improves Appearance: Tooth-colored fillings improve the aesthetics of your smile, especially when used on front teeth.

Post-Treatment Care:

• Numbness: After the filling, you may experience numbness for a few hours due to the local anesthesia.
• Avoid Chewing Hard Foods: For composite or glass ionomer fillings, avoid hard or sticky foods for a day to allow the filling to settle.
• Sensitivity: Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure after the procedure. This usually subsides in a few days to a week.
• Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups to maintain the health of the filling and prevent future decay.

When Should a Filling Be Replaced?

Fillings don’t last forever and may need to be replaced if they wear down, crack, or the tooth decays around the filling. Regular dental visits help the dentist monitor the condition of your fillings and replace them when necessary.

Signs You May Need a Dental Filling:

• Tooth Pain: Especially when biting down or chewing.
• Sensitivity: Prolonged sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods.
• Visible Holes or Cracks: You may notice a visible hole or dark spot on the tooth.
• Chipping or Roughness: If a part of your tooth or filling feels rough or chipped.