A Guide To Dental Fillings
So your dentist just told you that you have a cavity
. What next? First, count yourself lucky if this is your first cavity! According to the CDC, 78% of Americans have had at least one cavity by the time they're 17 years old. The good news is that when detected early, cavities are easily treated with dental fillings, and in most cases this is what your dentist will recommend.
Cavity-Causing Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky, colorless bacterial substance that continually forms on your teeth. When sugar comes into contact with plaque, it creates an acid that begins eating away at the tooth's enamel.
Over time, plaque breaks through the tooth's protective enamel, resulting in cavity-causing tooth decay. If left untreated, cavities can delve deeper into the tooth causing pain, sensitivity, and in some cases more serious dental problems. The best defense against tooth decay is professional dental cleanings along with regular brushing and flossing, and avoiding sugary food and drinks.
With regular exams by your dentist, most cavities are caught early enough to be treated with a simple dental filling.
Amalgam Fillings
Dental fillings, or just "fillings," are exactly what they sound like. They fill the hole where a cavity once was, stopping tooth decay and reshaping the tooth.
There are many materials used for fillings today. Historically, the most popular material used was amalgam; an alloy containing mercury, tin, silver, and copper. While silver-colored amalgam is very durable and effective for all tooth surfaces, it has gained some criticism in recent years. Not only are amalgam fillings unattractive, there is also some concern about the mercury level in the material.
Composite Fillings
Most dentists prefer composite fillings these days. Composite mixes glass, quartz, and other materials with a resin compound to create a filling to match the color of your teeth. Using different materials allows your dentist to create a custom filling to match not only your tooth's color, but also fit the needs of that tooth. For example, molars require more durable fillings because they have higher chewing loads. Fillings near the gum line can be more delicate.
The Procedure
Most cavities can be filled in just one short visit to your dentist and with little to no discomfort. First, local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth, roots, and surrounding area. Then tiny instruments are used to remove the tooth decay and clean out the cavity to place the filling. The filling is then packed into the cleaned space in the tooth and cured with a UV light to harden it. Any excess filling material will be removed to bring your tooth back to its original shape and your bite will be checked.
While avoiding tooth decay is ideal, if you do get a cavity, rest assured it can be easily treated with a dental filling in just one short trip to your dentist.
by: Chris Harmen
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