Ever had a cavity? You’re not alone. Cavities are like the most common thing ever, and to repair it you insert a filling.
Let’s discuss the different types of tooth fillings, specially commonly used in Pakistan. We will also discuss under what circumstances you will need a filling and the advantages and disadvantages of the different materials that are used.
Teeth Filling: What It Is and When You Need It?
Any time you have had to suffer an inconsequential pain in one of your teeth? That might be a sign that you need a tooth filling.
What is this tooth filling?
A tooth filling (also known as a restoration) is much like a patch on a tooth. When decay forms a hole in your tooth called cavity, our dentists use fillings to do some repairing. They then remove the decay and rebuild the area with certain substances used to reshape and restore your tooth.
When do you need a filling?
You might need a filling if:
- You get a cavity, or a tooth decay
- Have a cracked or chipped tooth
- Experiencing the symptoms of sensitive teeth
During a routine examination, your dentist is able to notice signs of decay.
Symptoms that may indicate that you need a filling
Keep an eye out for these symptoms:
- Teeth sensitivity, especially to sweet, hot or cold foods.
- Allergic responses when it comes to hot or cold foods, sweet foods or beverages.
- The difference that stands out as holes or black patches on the teeth
- Having to use a toothpick more frequently
Remember, only a dentist can diagnose you and tell if you need a filling, and will select the types of tooth fillings for you. However, it’s very important to take care of your teeth – don’t wait till it hurts!
Types of Teeth Filling in Pakistan
Dental care in Pakistan implies the use of several types of tooth fillings depending on the material used. Now it is time to describe the basic, or the most frequently options that local dentist use most in Pakistan:
Amalgam Fillings
Mercury or amalgam fillings are the classic solution for many years. The tooth filling material is made from a combination of metals such as silver, tin, copper and mercury. Do not worry – the Mercury is fixed to other Mercury metals hence it is safe to use the product. It is standard of care in Pakistan as these fillings are not very expensive and very long lasting.
Composite Fillings
Also, if you want a more realistic and longer-lasting option, composite filling may be your best option. These are made from half-breeds of plastic and tiny glass particles to ensure that they are in harmony with your teeth color. Compared with amalgam fillings they are not as durable, however, they are gaining popularity due to their cosmetic aspect.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Thus, glass ionomer fillings could qualify as great for those who have sensitive teeth. It consists of hard acrylic and a particular kind of glass material. One of the coolest things about these fillings or composites is that they release fluoride over time, which may help protect your tooth against future decay. But they are especially appropriate where the filling is done below the gum line or where such filling is for some time only.
Gutta-percha Tooth Filling
Gutta-percha is a material that resembles rubber and is usually used to fill and seal the cleaned tooth canals after root canal treatments. It is biocompatible, flexible, and provides a close adaptation within the root canal environment, which would prevent reinfection.
Once placed it bonds with a sealer to prevent bacterial infection and shields the tooth. Gutta-percha is well known for its high degree of biocompatibility and ability to provide long-lasting teeth restoration following root canal treatment.
That is why it is so important to understand that the best type of filling you should choose depends on many important factors. These include the place of the cavity, financial opportunities of the patient and personal preferences. You should always seek advice from a dentist to see which of the two treatments is most appropriate for you.
Benefits Of Tooth Filling
There are several advantages of going for a tooth filling as a dental procedure for your dental health and even total body and soul wellness. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:
Pain Relief and Comfort:
First, one of the consequences of a tooth filling is the decision of pain. We all have a feeling of how painful it can be if one has been treating a cavity. A filling can easily solve that painful sensation in mere minutes, providing pain-free chewing, swallowing, and speaking.
Prevent Further Decay:
Where there is a cavity, more than filling it, you’re solving the present concern and preventing other problems. Filling isolates the area which is infected, thus preventing bacteria from inflicting further harm. It can prevent you from having to obtain more serious (and costly) dental procedures at some point in the future.
Restore Tooth Function:
They are even painful and can cause chewing or biting to become problematic. A filling gives back the contour and use of your tooth, so you don’t have to avoid food that requires chewing. Also, it may assist you in preserving your bite position since that plays a vital role in determining oral health.
Improved Appearance:
Good looks matter? For this, there are composite fillings that resemble your tooth structure and are indistinguishable from your natural teeth. This is the same reason why people would love to smile knowing they have a dental job done yet nobody can tell. It is an easy method of ensuring not only proper oral health but also proper facial aesthetics.
Of course, fillings have their advantages, but this does not mean that having dental filling will replace the necessity to go through a dental check-up periodically. This is where your dentist can identify possible problems before they develop into anything that will require a filling.
Disadvantages of Tooth Filling
Teeth fillings is a widely used and efficient method of dental care but there are several minor disadvantages you should know about. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Sensitivity and Discomfort:
It is not unusual to feel some slight discomfort when you take hot or cold food and water for a few days after you have been given a filling. This normally lasts for a few weeks but might last for a few months in certain circumstances. You also have a sense of slight tingling when biting or chewing, most especially with metal fillings that expand or contract with heat.
Aesthetic Concerns:
Metallic fillings, especially the alloy kind known as amalgam are somewhat noticeable when one is laughing or talking. This might be a concern if you’re aware of your smile’s aesthetics. A usual drawback, however, is that while the tooth-colored fillings harmonize well, they do not look identical to your own tooth color.
Potential for Damage:
Fillings don’t last forever. They also may wear, chip, or fall out with time, depending on such factors as bruxism or the habit of biting objects. When this occurs you will have to have the filling redone and this will require another visit to the dentist and money down the drain.
Allergic Reactions:
Although it is very rare some individuals may be allergic to the materials used in the fillings particularly the metal alloy fillings. This disease may cause itching, rashes, or swelling in or around the mouth.
It is important always to consult your dentist in-case of any issue to enable you to make the right choice regarding your teeth state.
Conclusion
And that’s the truth behind tooth fillings – the end! No matter what type of tooth fillings you have, it can be very useful if the decay starts. They’ll fix that hole and get your chompers back in working order just in case you need them to nibble on something. Still, patients need to know that fillings are not a full solution.
But don’t think that you can stop brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist – you still have to continue with that to avoid other dental experiences later in life. Looking for a reliable dental clinic? Visit SmileOn today and get your dental treatments done comfortably.
The dentist will just take you through the entire process and ensure that you are at ease. Now go show those clean and bright teeth with the utmost confidence!
FAQs
Is tooth filling permanent?
No, most teeth fillings are not permanent. They can easily run for several years but they may be replaced occasionally.
Can tooth filling be removed?
Yes, a filling can be removed by a dentist, for instance, because you want another filling or another sort of treatment is required.
Is it possible for tooth decay under the filling?
Of course, tooth decay can appear under a filling if bacteria enters the spaces because of the cracks, leakage or poor hygienic conditions.
What causes a toothache after a filling has been done?
After a filling procedure patients may experience post-filling pain resulting from sensitivity. Additionally, the improper sealing or nerve irritation can also cause toothache. It often lasts for a few days before it begins to get better.
Can you have something to eat after you get a tooth filling?
Yes, it is safe to eat after tooth filling. However, a patient should allow some time for the numbing effect to wear off to prevent biting his/her cheek or tongue. Do not consume extremely hot and cold foods for the first 24 hours.
You just got up and felt immense pain in the tooth that would not go away? You might be having Read more