Filling Cavities 

Filling Cavities….what choices do I have?

The most common treatment to repair a cavity is to have a filling in the tooth.

Teeth fillings are also used on teeth that have been damaged in other ways including those that have been chipped or worn down due to grinding. 

Once your dentist determines that a filling is necessary, they will discuss the various options with the patient and then decide on the best method to repair the tooth cavity.

There are a number of types of filling options available with the differences centering on the numerous types of materials that can be used.

Some fillings use a combination of metals that can withstand extensive chewing action, while others may not be as strong but they will be a good choice for filling small cavities or cavities that develop in between teeth.

Amalgam fillings are the most common type and have been used for a long time. 

Dentist fillings of this type are made up of a combination of metal elements including silver, tin, copper and mercury. 

It is inexpensive to produce as well as extremely durable and easy to work with.

It's usually the perfect choice for filling cavities in molars because its silver color is not very noticeable and because it can withstand extensive chewing.

Gold fillings are popular with many people especially if the site to be repaired is near the front of the mouth – this is often thought to be of a more cosmetic approach though.

Composite fillings are the same color as a natural tooth, therefore it's less noticeable on front teeth.  This type of filling is a plastic dental resin medium, are durable and strong and is perfect for smaller areas of tooth decay.

However composite fillings are less durable than amalgam fillings, but the material will still withstand plenty of chewing. While composite fillings cost more they can be bonded onto a tooth with good results.

If a cavity is located on a root surface an Ionomer filling is a good choice to use because it is made with glass powders and acrylic acids that are translucent and also release a certain amount of fluoride.

What most people dread about the filling procedure is a toss-up between the needle that delivers the local anaesthesia and the high-pitched squeal of the drill while it cleans out and shapes the cavity.

Either can set a person’s nerves on edge but unfortunately both are necessary evils to attain good results. Various types of fillings require unique preparation processes including the use of special dental tools.

When a filling is completed and properly affixed to the affected tooth, your dentist will use a special paper called articulating paper to adjust the height of your new filling. This ensures your bite remains correct. The final step is always to polish the filling material to make it smooth.

Sensitivity in the area of the filling for a week or two after the procedure is fairly common. Exposure to hot and cold food and drinks as well as pressure, sweet things or even air can all cause the area to feel sensitive and painful.

While avoiding these situations can be challenging it is a good idea to try at least for the first few weeks. If the condition persists for longer than a month it is advisable to make another appointment to see your dentist.

If you can, pay attention to the discomfort you're experiencing so you can accurately describe it to the dentist. Your description will help the dentist decide how to proceed and fix the problem.

Filling cavities does not last forever and whilst modern dentistry has come a long way in recent times, most fillings will need to be replaced at some point because they will fall out, weaken, crack or discolour. 

Having regular six monthly dental check ups is the best option for having trouble free oral health.