Tooth Colored Fillings

What is Tooth Colored Fillings?

Tooth decay and cavities can cause a considerable amount of damage to teeth. If these problems are ignored, dental decay can become symptomatic or cause substantial damage to teeth. Once dental decay is diagnosed, the diseased tooth structure is removed. The diseased portion of the tooth that was removed can be replaced with a tooth-colored filling to maintain the tooth’s structural integrity.

Why Filling is required?

Bacteria cause dental decay which breaks down enamel and dentin. If left untreated, the decay will progress and additional tooth structure will be lost and the tooth may also become symptomatic. Dental fillings can replace the damage tooth structure after the decay is removed and restore function of the tooth.

If the tooth is too damaged or the decay severe, a root canal and/or crown may be a better alternative. In some cases, if the decay is severe enough, the tooth may not be restorable and instead needs to be removed.

Which materials are used for Filling?

There are different kinds of restorative materials available including: amalgam, composite resin, gold, and porcelain. For fillings, the most common materials used are composite resin (tooth colored filling) and amalgam.

What steps are involved in Filling a Tooth?

First, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to be filled. Next, a drill to remove the decayed area. Next, your dentist will probe or test the area to determine if all the decay has been removed. Once the decay has been removed, the dentist will prepare the space for the filling by cleaning the cavity of bacteria and debris. If the decay is near the root, your dentist may first put in a liner made of glass ionomer, composite resin, or other material to protect the nerve. Generally, after the filling is in, your dentist will finish and polish it.

How to take care of fillings?

Fillings and restorations need to be cared for just like natural teeth. Excellent care at home as well as regular professional care is required to maintain a filling for as long as possible. Also, it is important to reduce excessive force on fillings just the same as natural teeth.

How to prevent Decay?

• Brush twice a day ensuring you are spending 2 minutes and cleaning all surfaces of your teeth well. Floss daily to remove plaque from between the teeth.
• Examination by a dental professional on a regular basis.
• Regular professional hygiene care. Frequency of these visits is determined on an individual case basis.
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks that increase your risk of developing cavities.
• Use fluoride or xylitol containing toothpaste.