Dental Fillings

Dental fillings offer a simple, effective solution for restoring the function and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth. Even with excellent oral hygiene, cavities can form because of the acid production by bacteria in food and beverages, which erodes the enamel. Untreated tooth decay can progress, causing pain, infection, and possibly tooth loss.

    Fillings offer an effective solution by removing the decayed part of the tooth. Dental fillings are made from different materials, including amalgam, composite resin, gold, and porcelain. Each material has advantages and setbacks you must consider before choosing.

Technological advancements in dental care have improved fillings’ durability, appearance, and safety. However, for the desired results from your procedure, you must seek expert dental care. For safe and reliable dental filling services in Agoura, CA, you should consult us at Agoura Hills Advanced Dentistry.

What are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are materials used by dentists to restore the function, integrity, and shape of teeth damaged by decay or minor fractures. According to the American Dental Association, 64.4% to 67.1% of the U.S. population has at least one dental filling.

Common instances when you may need a dental filling include:

You Have Cavities Caused by Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the most common reason for the need for dental fillings. Tooth decay begins when food particles accumulate in the mouth. The bacteria from this food debris break down sugars to produce acid that erodes the enamel. The erosion creates small holes or cavities in the enamel.

Cavities can affect the inner layers of the tooth when left untreated. A dentist removes the decayed material and fills the hole to restore the tooth. Additionally, a dental filling helps to prevent further decay.

You Have Cracked or Broken Teeth

Teeth can crack or break due to a variety of reasons. They include injury, biting hard foods, or weakened enamel. Cracks on the enamel can expose the inner part of the tooth to bacteria. This increases the risk of decay and infection. A filling can repair the crack and protect the tooth from further damage. If your tooth is severely damaged, your dentist can recommend a crown instead of a filling.

You Have Worn-Down Teeth

Teeth naturally wear down over time. Natural tooth damage may result from an uneven bite or teeth grinding. Aggressive brushing can also wear down the tooth enamel. Worn teeth are more sensitive and vulnerable to decay. Dental fillings can rebuild the lost structure to restore the natural shape and function of the tooth.

You Have Tooth Sensitivity

Persistent tooth sensitivity to hot or cold substances may indicate enamel erosion or a small cavity. If the sensitivity is due to exposed dentin, a dental filling may cover the exposed area and reduce sensitivity. Fillings also help protect the tooth from further exposure and damage.

You Seek Cosmetic Improvements

You can use dental fillings for aesthetic purposes. Composite resin fillings, which are tooth-colored, help to reshape or improve the appearance of teeth. They can fill gaps, change the shape of teeth, or repair minor chips and imperfections. The cosmetic use of fillings helps patients achieve a more uniform and attractive smile.

You Seek Replacement of Old or Damaged Fillings

Fillings do not last forever. Over time, they can wear down, crack, or fall out. A loose or lost filling leaves the tooth vulnerable to decay and damage. Your dentist will recommend a replacement of the old fillings to maintain the tooth’s health and function. You may need to change the filling material during a replacement for a better structure.

Types of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings restore teeth damaged by decay or trauma. They help restore the tooth enamel’s shape, strength, and function. Common types of dental fillings you could choose from include:

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam, or silver, fillings are the oldest dental fillings and have been around for decades. Amalgam is made from silver, mercury, tin, and copper. The advantages of amalgam fillings include:

• Strong and durable. These fillings can withstand chewing forces, making them ideal for back teeth.
• Long-lasting. Amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years or more with proper care.
• Affordable. Silver fillings are cheaper than other options, which makes them ideal for individuals on a budget or patients without dental insurance.
• Quick to place. The process of putting amalgam fillings is efficient and straightforward.

However, before you opt for these fillings, you must consider the following setbacks:

• The material is noticeable. The silver color of amalgam fillings makes them easy to spot. Therefore, they are not ideal for visible areas. Dentists often recommend amalgam fillings for back teeth.
• Mercury content. Although the American Dental Association says they are safe, some people are concerned about the mercury content of silver fillings.
• It can cause enamel cracks. Amalgam can expand and contract with temperature changes. For this reason, they can cause the tooth enamel to crack over time.
• It can cause allergies. Some people are allergic to the metal alloys used to make the amalgam fillings.

Composite Fillings

The composite fillings are made from a resin material that can match your natural tooth color. For this reason, they have become a popular option for the front teeth. The advantages of composite fillings include:

• Aesthetically pleasing. Composite material blends well with your natural teeth.
• Less drilling. The dentist can often preserve more of your tooth enamel when using composite fillings.
• Bonding strength. Composite bonds directly to the tooth, which helps to support the tooth structure.

The disadvantages of using composite fillings are:

• Not very strong. Composite may wear out quicker than amalgam, especially on large cavities.
• Cost. Composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam.
• The process takes longer. Placing composite fillings is more technique-sensitive and time-consuming. Therefore, you may spend longer at your dentist’s office.
• Possible staining. Over time, the composite material can discolor from coffee, tea, or smoking.

Ceramic Fillings

These fillings are often made of porcelain and are custom-created in a lab. They are an excellent option for individuals seeking a durable and natural-looking solution. The advantages of using ceramic fillings are:

• Excellent aesthetics. Porcelain mimics the color and shine of your natural teeth. Therefore, you can restore tooth structure while maintaining a perfect smile.
• Resistant to staining. Unlike composites, porcelain does not stain easily. Therefore, you can maintain the tooth’s appearance longer.
• Durable. With proper care, ceramic fillings can serve you for a long time.
• Biocompatible. Ceramic fillings cause fewer allergies compared to composite and amalgam fillings.

You should consider these setbacks before getting the ceramic fillings:

• They ate expensive food. Ceramic fillings are some of the most costly dental fillings.
• Porcelain is brittle. Porcelain can break when you apply too much pressure.
• More than one visit. The procedure may take multiple dental appointments since these fillings are made in the lab.
• Tooth preparation. Your dentist may need to remove some tooth enamel to fit the porcelain fillings. This can compromise the integrity of the enamel structure.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy. Due to their high cost and appearance, they are not a standard option. Some of the advantages of gold fillings include:

• Extremely durable. Gold fillings can last 15-30 years or more.
• They are strong. These fillings withstand high chewing forces, making them ideal for large cavities in molars.
• Gold does not corrode. Gold remains stable over time. Therefore, your fillings will remain intact.

The setbacks of gold fillings include:

• The fillings are noticeable. The gold color stands out, and many people do not like its appearance.
• High cost. Gold is one of the most expensive materials. Therefore, you may spend a fortune on the procedure.
• Multiple visits. Like ceramic, gold fillings are custom-made in the lab. For this reason, the procedure will take multiple appointments.
• Possible galvanic shock. Gold can react with metal fillings nearby, causing discomfort.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

These fillings are made from a mixture of acrylic and glass. They are helpful, especially in children or for fillings near the gum line. The benefits of using glass ionomer fillings are:

• It releases fluoride, which protects the tooth from further decay.
• It bonds to the tooth, which helps seal the tooth and reduces leakage.

The setbacks of glass ionomer fillings include:

• The material is weaker, and glass ionomer fillings are not as strong as those made from composite or amalgam.
• Wears faster. Under constant pressure from chewing, the glass ionomer fillings wear off faster.
• Limited aesthetic. The material in these fillings does not match natural teeth or composite or ceramic. Therefore, it is not ideal for the front teeth.
• Shorter lifespan. These fillings last less time than other types.

Dental Filling Procedure

You should consult a dentist if you have a broken, damaged, or decayed tooth. The dentist will assess the tooth to determine whether you’re a good candidate for a dental filling. A dental filling procedure takes the following steps:

Numbing and Preparing the Tooth

The first step in a dental filling procedure is to numb the area around the affected tooth. The dentist uses a local anesthetic to block pain during the treatment. After the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist prepares the tooth for the procedure.

The tooth preparation includes isolating the tooth with a rubber dam or cotton rolls to keep it dry and saliva-free. At this point, the dentist may also inspect the area to confirm the decay location.

Removing the Decay

The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth when everything is ready. They do this by drilling on the affected part of the enamel. The goal is to remove only the damaged parts while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Cleaning and Lining the Cavity

After removing the decayed part, the dentist cleans the cavity to remove debris or bacteria. The step helps prevent future infections and creates a fresh surface for the filling material. The dentist can place a protective liner inside the cavity if the decay is deep and close to the nerve. The liner helps reduce tooth sensitivity and protects the pulp.

Applying the Filling Material

When the cavity is clean and dry, the dentist will fill it. The type of material used depends on the location of the tooth, patient preference, and cost. Common materials include composite resin, amalgam, porcelain, and gold.

When filling your tooth using composite resin, the dentist will apply the material in small layers and harden it using a special curing light. The layering technique helps the filling bond strongly to the tooth to ensure durability. For amalgam or other materials, layering is not necessary.

Shaping and Polishing the Filling

After applying the dental filling, the dentist shapes it to match your natural tooth structure. They will check that the new surface lines up correctly with your bite. The dentist will trim and smooth the material if anything feels too high or uneven. Polishing also reduces the chance of staining and wear over time.

Final Check and Aftercare Instructions

The dentist will ask you to bite down gently to confirm the filling feels natural. If adjustments are needed, your dentist can make them at this stage. After the procedure, the dentist will rinse your mouth and give instructions on what to expect after the anesthetic wears off.

Aftercare Instructions for Dental Fillings

Care for dental fillings is essential to ensure they serve you longer and prevent further dental complications. The following are standard aftercare instructions your dentist can recommend after your procedure:

• Wait until the numbness wears off before eating. After your dental filling, your mouth will remain numb for a while from the anesthetic. Before eating or drinking anything hot, you must wait for the anesthesia to wear off. This helps prevent accidental biting of your tongue, cheek, or lips.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours. You should avoid chewing hard, crunchy, or sticky foods immediately after your dental filling procedure. These foods can put stress on the new filling and even dislodge it. Your dentist will recommend that you stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, or mashed potatoes for the first day.
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth. To protect your new filling, you should try to chew food on the side of your mouth that did not receive treatment.
• Brush and floss gently around the filled tooth. You can resume brushing and flossing the same day. However, you should do it gently around the area of the filling. Good oral hygiene helps to prevent further decay.
• Watch for sensitivity. It is normal to experience mild sensitivity for a few days after the dental filling procedure. However, sensitivity that lingers or worsens over time may indicate further issues. In this case, you should seek immediate dental care.
• Call your dentist if the filling feels too high or causes pain. If your bite feels uneven or you notice pain when chewing, you should visit your dentist quickly.

Some complications you can experience after a dental filling procedure include:

• Tooth sensitivity. Dental fillings can cause sensitivity to pressure, air, or temperature. The sensitivity can last from a few days to several weeks, and it causes discomfort.
• Allergic reactions. Allergic responses to materials like amalgam may result in rashes, itching, or oral discomfort.
• Filling damage. Fillings can crack, chip, or fall out over time. This reduces their protective function and increases the risk of further decay. A competent dentist will help you choose the right durable filling material and perform an excellent procedure.
• Infection. If a filling does not fully seal the cavity, bacteria can enter, leading to infection. In this case, you may need additional treatment.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Filling

Selecting the correct dental filling involves balancing your dental needs with your budget and aesthetic concerns. Factors you must consider when choosing a filing include:

• Cavity site. Fillings in molars must withstand chewing forces. Therefore, the dentist will use a stronger material like amalgam or gold. You can use tooth-colored composites or ceramics in the anterior teeth, where esthetics are essential.
• Size and depth of the cavity. Larger cavities require stronger materials to support the tooth. Small, shallow fillings might do well with composite or glass ionomer.
• Aesthetic concerns. If you want a natural look, composite or ceramic fillings are the best choice. Metal fillings like amalgam or gold are more visible and thus not ideal for visible areas.
• Durability needs. Some people grind their teeth or have strong bites. In these cases, durable options like gold or amalgam are preferable.
• Cost and insurance coverage. Gold and ceramic fillings are more costly. Amalgam and composite are less expensive and typically are covered. So, you must consider your budget and insurance availability when deciding on the ideal filling.

Find a Competent General Dentist Near Me

Your dentist can recommend a dental filling when fixing a new cavity, tooth damage or replacing an old filling. There are several dental filling materials from which you can choose. They include composite resin, amalgam, gold, and porcelain.

The proper dental filling can preserve your tooth and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. The modern materials used for dental fillings provide durable and natural-looking options. If you experience tooth sensitivity, discomfort while chewing, or visible signs of decay, consult your dentist.

At Agoura Hills Advanced Dentistry, we provide reliable and personalized dental care for our clients. We use the latest techniques and materials to ensure your fillings are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Contact us today at 818-878-7300 from Agoura, CA, to book an appointment.