Dental Fillings Blainville
What Are Tooth Fillings?
When Do You Need a Dental Filling?
How Do Cavities Occur?
Cavities also known as dental caries, are the most common cause leading to the need for a dental filling. Cavities occur when harmful bacteria in the mouth produce acid that erodes the tooth enamel. These bacteria feed on the sugars and carbohydrates that are present in the food we eat, and they produce acid as a byproduct. Over time, this acid can weaken the tooth enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of the tooth. When the enamel is weakened, it can eventually break down and form a hole or cavity in the tooth.
Cavities can also occur when the tooth is exposed to acidic substances, such as soda or fruit juices, over a prolonged period of time. Over time, this acid can weaken the tooth enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of the tooth. When the enamel is weakened, it can eventually break down and form a hole or cavity in the tooth. Cavities can also occur when the tooth is exposed to acidic substances, such as soda or fruit juices, over a prolonged period of time.
Here's how tooth cavities occur:
- Poor oral hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly can lead to the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and produces acid that can erode the enamel.
- High sugar and carbohydrate intake: Consuming sugary and carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks, especially between meals, provides a food source for bacteria in the mouth, leading to increased acid production and decay.
- Dry mouth: A lack of saliva in the mouth can contribute to the development of cavities, as saliva helps to neutralize acid and wash away food particles and bacteria.
- Genetics: Some people may be more susceptible to dental decay due to genetic factors that affect the strength and thickness of tooth enamel.
- Age: As we age, our teeth become more vulnerable to decay due to natural wear and tear and changes in the composition of our teeth.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as acid reflux, can increase the risk of dental decay by exposing the teeth to stomach acid.
- To prevent dental decay, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, limit sugary and carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks, and see a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
What's Involved in a Dental Filling?
The process of getting a dental filling typically involves the following steps:
- Numbing the area: Before the procedure, the procedure begins with our caring and compassionate dental professionals numbing around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort.
- Removing the decay: Once the area is numb, the dentist will use dental instruments to remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
- Preparing the tooth: After the decay has been removed, the dentist will shape the remaining tooth structure to create a space for the filling material.
- Placing the filling: The filling material, which may be made of composite resin, amalgam, ceramic or other materials, is then placed into the prepared space and shaped to fit the contours of the tooth.
- Curing the filling: If the filling material is composite resin, it will be hardened with a special light to ensure it bonds securely to the tooth.
- Polishing the filling: After the filling has been placed and cured, the dentist will polish it to smooth out any rough edges and ensure a natural-looking finish.
Types of Dental Filling Materials
There are many kinds of filling materials that our expert dentists may recommend. Here are some examples:
Composite Resin Fillings
The composite resin material is the most commonly used material to repair cavities. This tooth-colored material is made of a mixture of plastic and glass. Composite resin fillings can be matched to the natural color of the tooth, making them a popular choice.
Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillers are a very popular material due to their tooth-like appearance. Made of a dental ceramic material, they are strong, durable, and can be matched to the color of the natural tooth. They may be placed as inlays or onlays.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are a strong and durable material commonly used in the past, but less so today because of their unaesthetic silver/black appearance. Dental amalgam is made from silver, copper, tin and mercury. Amalgam fillings are usually used in the treatment of decay in primary or baby teeth.
Gold Fillings
Although being the most biocompatible material for tooth fillings, as well as having superior longevity, the cost and unaesthetic appearance have all but eliminated this material as a treatment option.
After the Tooth Filling
Although dental restorations are considered very safe and effective, occasionally, after your tooth filling, there are some post-operative problems that may be experienced, including:
Although dental fillings are generally considered safe and effective, there are some post-operative problems that patients may experience, including:
- Sensitivity: Some patients may experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures or pressure in the days following the filling procedure. This is usually temporary and should subside within a few days. It may require a slight adjustment of the filling dimensions which are done quickly and easily.
- Discomfort or pain: Mild discomfort or pain around the area of the filling is not uncommon, but severe pain or discomfort that persists for several days may indicate a problem and should be reported to the dentist.
Maintaining Dental Fillings
At Lüminus Dental Clinic, we know how critical preventative dental care is, so our dental team will give you all the information you need to maintain your fillings for as long as possible.
Our dental hygienists can help you establish healthier brushing and flossing routines. We also recommend booking regular dental checkups in Blainville so our team can spot the early signs of additional tooth decay.