It’s no secret that dental fillings are an important part of oral care. They are also one of the most commonly performed dental procedures. But what do you really know about them? In this blog post, we will be filling you in all about dental fillings. First, we will discuss the different types of fillings and why they are necessary. We’ll also talk about how they are placed and how long they last. Finally, we’ll discuss signs that you may need to have your fillings replaced.
Dental fillings are a type of dental restoration that are used to fill in cavities. Fillings are necessary because they help to restore a tooth’s function and structure. When a tooth is damaged, it can cause pain and make it difficult to eat or speak. Fillings also help to prevent further damage to the tooth by sealing off any cracks or cavities.
They are made of a variety of materials, including metal, porcelain, and composite resin. There are two main types of dental fillings:
Direct Fillings
Direct fillings are placed into a tooth cavity that has been cleaned and prepared by a dentist. Composite, or tooth-colored, fillings are one of the most common types of direct fillings used today. Another type is amalgam fillings, although these are not nearly as common since they have a metallic appearance.
Indirect Fillings
Indirect fillings are made outside of the mouth and then bonded or cemented into place. There are two types of indirect fillings: inlays and onlays. An inlay is a type of indirect filling that is used to fill cavities located on the biting surface of a tooth. Onlays are similar to inlays, but they are used to fill the space on the biting surface of a tooth in addition to one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
Placing a Dental Filling
Fillings are placed by a dentist. The procedure is relatively simple and direct fillings can be completed in one visit. Indirect fillings, on the other hand, usually require a minimum of two appointments. To place a composite filling, your dentist will first clean the tooth and then remove any decay. Next, they will place the composite resin material into the cavity and shape it to match the surrounding teeth. Finally, they will harden the filling with a light or laser.
Like direct fillings, an indirect filling is placed by first cleaning the tooth and removing the decayed tissue. Then, your dentist will take an impression of the teeth and provide you with a temporary restoration. This impression is then sent to a dental lab, where the permanent inlay or onlay is made. The permanent inlay or onlay is then bonded or cemented into place.
Fillings can last for many years, but eventually they may need to be replaced. Direct fillings tend to last about 5-7 years, while inlays and onlays usually last around 10-15 years. This discrepancy is simply due to the fact that different dental materials are used.
Regardless of the type of filling you get, signs that you may need a new filling include pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, and visible cracks or chips in the filling. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
We hope that this blog post has filled you in on all you need to know about dental fillings. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your dentist at your next appointment. Thanks for reading!
Dr. Sadati possesses extensive experience in all aspects of advanced restorative dentistry, with an emphasis in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He has attained Accredited Fellow status in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), the most rigorous, demanding credentialing process in the world. He is the only AACD Accredited Fellow in South Florida.