Fillings

January 6, 2020
cavity

If you have never had a cavity, congratulations! If you have had one, you are not alone. About 78% of us have had at least one cavity by the time we reach age 17, according to a 2000 report by the U.S. Surgeon General. Fortunately there's a time-tested treatment for cavities: the dental filling.


Fillings do just what the name implies — seal a small hole in your tooth, i.e., a cavity, caused by decay. This prevents the decay (a bacteria-induced infection) from spreading further into your tooth and, if untreated, continue on to the sensitive inner pulp (nerve) tissue located in the root canal. Should that happen, you would need root canal treatment.


There are a variety of materials used to fill teeth these days, but the process of filling a tooth is similar regardless. The first step is a clinical exam of the tooth with x-rays, to determine the extent of the decay. Then the decayed area of the tooth is removed, usually with a handheld instrument such as a dental drill. Of course, your tooth will be anesthetized first, so you won't feel any discomfort. If you normally feel nervous about receiving numbing injections, it's possible that taking an anti-anxiety medication or using nitrous oxide can help you feel more relaxed. After removing the decay, the remaining tooth structure is roughened or “etched” with a mildly acidic solution; then translucent cement is applied to bond the tooth and the filling material together.

Types of Fillings

There are two broad categories of dental fillings: metal fillings and tooth-colored fillings. Each may offer particular advantages and disadvantages in certain situations.

Metal Fillings

Amalgam — The classic “silver” filling in use for more than a century, dental amalgam is actually an alloy made up of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. The mercury combines with the other metals in the amalgam to make it stable and safe. These fillings are strong and inexpensive, but also quite noticeable. They also require relatively more tooth preparation (drilling) than other types.

Cast Gold — Among the most expensive restorative dental materials, cast gold combines gold with other metals for a very strong, long-lasting filling. It is also highly noticeable, which can be considered a plus or minus.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Composite — A popular choice for those who don't want their fillings to show, composite is a mixture of plastic and glass, which actually bonds to the rest of the tooth. Composites are more expensive than amalgam fillings, and the newer materials can hold up almost as long. Less drilling of the tooth is necessary when placing composite as compared to amalgam.

Porcelain — These high-tech dental ceramics are strong, lifelike, and don't stain as composites can. They are sometimes more expensive than composites because they may require the use of a dental laboratory or specialized computer-generated technology. While considered the most aesthetic filling, they can also, because of their relatively high glass content, be brittle.

Glass Ionomer — Made of acrylic and glass powders, these inexpensive, translucent fillings have the advantages of blending in pretty well with natural tooth color and releasing small amounts of fluoride to help prevent decay. They generally don't last as long as other restorative materials.

What to Expect After Getting a Filling

The numbness caused by your local anesthesia should wear off within a couple of hours. Until then, it's best to avoid drinking hot or cold liquids, and eating on the side of your mouth with the new filling. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal in the first couple of weeks after getting a tooth filled. If it persists beyond that, or you have any actual pain when biting, it could signal that an adjustment to your filling needs to be made. Continue to brush and floss as normal every day, and visit the dental office at least twice per year for your regular checkups and cleanings. And remember, tooth decay is a very preventable disease; with good oral hygiene and professional care, you can make your most recent cavity your last!
types of braces
By Sewell Dental Designs December 31, 2024
Explore types of braces and how getting braces works at Haddad Dental. Take the first step towards a confident smile now!
A woman is smiling while holding a clear retainer in her hand.
By Sewell Dental Designs October 20, 2024
How can you fix a misaligned bite as an adult? Explore orthodontic treatments that fit your lifestyle and needs. Visit now!
teeth replacement options
By Sewell Dental Designs August 23, 2024
Wondering about teeth replacement options? Discover the causes and consequences of missing teeth. Explore solutions to restore your smile. Visit us now!
tooth replacement options
By Sewell Dental Designs June 28, 2024
Explore various tooth replacement options that fit your lifestyle. Discover which option works best for you. Click now to find out more!
types of malocclusion
By Sewell Dental Designs April 10, 2024
Discover the different causes, symptoms, and types of malocclusion. Find out how to maintain dental health. Click now for comprehensive information!
jaw adjustment
By Sewell Dental Designs January 10, 2024
Orthodontics can fix a misaligned jaw with various treatment options. Discover what they can do in this guide on jaw adjustment.
what is periodontal disease, dentist in Sewell NJ
By Sewell Dental Designs November 18, 2023
In order to prioritize your dental health, you need to know how to prevent periodontal disease. But what is periodontal disease exactly?
Cosmetic Dentistry, Dentist in Sewell NJ
By Sewell Dental Designs September 27, 2023
Cosmetic dentistry is any procedure that improves the look of your smile. Learn about the most popular types of procedures that Sewell, NJ residents love here.
attractive woman smiling
By Sewell Dental Designs July 31, 2023
Cosmetic dentistry can help boost confidence and improve your quality of life. Learn about teeth whitening and other cosmetic dental options here.
Invisalign aligners in the palm of the hand
By Sewell Dental Designs May 30, 2023
Many adults feel shame over their crooked teeth but also don't like the appearance of adult braces. Learn about the benefits of invisalign here.
More Posts
Share by: