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Dental fillings are a type of restoration that restores a decayed or fractured tooth to a state of health and function. They are also a frequently recommended solution for increased sensitivity caused by recession or acid erosion. There are different materials to suit individual budgets and aesthetic goals.
Fillings are used to replace the parts of teeth which have been lost through dental decay, tooth surface loss or trauma. Tooth decay occurs when the enamel and dentine of a tooth become softened by acid attack, producing a cavity (hole). Decay may or may not cause discomfort, however, even when it doesn’t hurt, the tooth is still deteriorating. It is important to speak to your dentist as soon as you notice anything abnormal with a tooth to prevent any further complications.
Understanding Tooth Decay
At the Victoria Road Dental Clinic and Facial Aesthetics, with the use of higher magnification and powerful lighting, it is much easier to detect decay at an early stage to prevent excessive tooth damage. When cavities are small, they are much easier and less expensive to treat, so contact us early so we can appraise and rectify.
Early tooth decay does not tend to show many physical signs. Initially tooth looks healthy, but your dentist will be able to see from an x-ray whether you have any decay under the enamel, any possible infections in the roots, or bone loss around the tooth.
Understanding Tooth Decay
At the Victoria Road Dental Clinic with the use of higher magnification and powerful lighting, it is much easier to detect decay at an early stage to prevent excessive tooth damage. When cavities are small, they are much easier and less expensive to treat, so contact us early so we can appraise and rectify.
Early tooth decay does not tend to show many physical signs. Initially tooth looks healthy, but your dentist will be able to see from an x-ray whether you have any decay under the enamel, any possible infections in the roots, or bone loss around the tooth.
What are the signs that you may need a filling?
- Early warning signs of tooth decay or damage include:
- Toothache
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
- Pain when eating or biting down
If you experience any of the above, contact our team at the Victoria Road Dental Care to schedule a complete examination. Your dentist will check the tooth using advanced dental diagnostics to confirm whether or not a filling is necessary. If it is, prompt treatment is recommended, as decay can spread and destroy the nerve within your tooth, potentially resulting in an abscess and the potential risk of tooth loss.
If the decay is not too serious, our cosmetic dentists will remove all the decay and restore the tooth with a dental filling. There are a number of different types of fillings that can be used including amalgam and white composite fillings.
Amalgam (silver)
Amalgam is an alloy made up of various metals, which when mixed, can be placed into a tooth. Subsequent hardening restores the tooth to its planned shape and function. We use an amalgam alloy which is a modern, high copper capsulated alloy with extremely high strength and corrosion resistance. Amalgam fillings play an important role in providing strong stable fillings in back teeth.
Composite (white)
Composites are made from synthetic resins mixed with filler particles and are available in a multitude of shades to match almost any tooth. Opting for a composite filling offers you the maximum chance of restoring your tooth to the desired colour, form and function. To ensure long term success, we use high quality materials and the most meticulous placement methods.
Replacing silver amalgam fillings
At Victoria Road Dental Practice and Facial Aesthetics, our dentists can also safely replace silver amalgam fillings with attractive looking white fillings, improving the appearance of your smile.
What is the dental filling procedure?
Filling placement is a routine and straightforward dental procedure at the Victoria Road Dental Clinic and Facial Aesthetics. Your highly skilled and qualified dentist will numb the treatment area using a local anaesthetic before clearing away all broken or decayed parts of the tooth , once the tooth has been prepared and cleaned a high-quality filling material is carefully used to build up the tooth. The commonly used filling substances include:
Composite : This popular filling type can be matched to your own tooth colour for a more pleasing and attractive appearance.
RMGI (Resin Modified Glass Ionomer): This tooth-coloured material can be applied quickly and easily, making it a good choice for children and others who might have difficulties tolerating a longer dental procedure.
Gold: Gold fillings are comparatively expensive, but have the advantage of being gentle on sensitive gum tissues and kind to surrounding teeth
Porcelain: Also known as inlays or onlays porcelain fillings cover most of the tooth and create a natural, aesthetically desirable appearance.
Amalgam: Durable and budget-friendly, amalgam fillings last an average of 10 years
Which filling do I need?
The filling material used will depend on the nature and extent of the tooth problem, as well as location, biting force, your medical history, and your own personal budget and preference.
After placing the filling, your dentist will check your bite and reshape the material if necessary. Once a proper fitting has been made, the filling will be polished to smooth its surface and make it look and feel natural.
To prevent tooth decay we recommend a healthy-balanced diet, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once per day. If you are at high risk of developing dental decay, we may also recommend fluoride mouth rinses. From advice to full-service dental care, the Victoria Road Dental Clinic is committed to looking after your healthy smile.
