What is a filling and when is it placed?
A filling is a dental material used to compensate for tooth damage caused by tooth decay or decay. Composite fillings (white fillings) are applied in cases of minor or major caries / defect and enable precise tooth restoration, while preserving its aesthetic appearance. Composite fillings can be matched to the natural color of the teeth, making it an ideal solution for front teeth. Unlike amalgam fillings (black fillings), composite fillings stick to the tooth enamel, which means that their placement does not require the removal of large amounts of healthy dental tissue.
When is a filling not enough?
If the defect or caries has reached the pulp (nerve), the mere placement of the filling will not be enough. In this case, it is first necessary to do the treatment of the root of the tooth in order to remove the infection. After that, a filling is placed that will protect the tooth and restore its function.
Does the placement of the filling hurt?
In our office, the placement of the filling is completely painless because each procedure is performed under local anesthesia. In this way, you will feel completely relaxed, and the healing process will be quick and pleasant.
How Long Should I Wait To Eat After Filling On?
After we place a white filling (composite), you can eat immediately, which is a great advantage over black fillings (amalgam). However, it is recommended that you wait until the anesthesia has passed to avoid injury to the tongue or lips.
Why do patients come forward to replace old fillings?
Many patients who have old fillings occur due to problems with food that falls between the teeth, which can cause bleeding gums as well as the formation of secondary defects/caries. This is often due to a poorly placed filling that did not allow for a properly reconstructed contact zone between two adjacent teeth. By replacing the old fillings with new, higher quality composite materials, this problem is solved, and food will no longer fall between the teeth.
Is the placement of the filling in our office different from other offices?
Yes, our office uses a special technique for placing dental fillings that involves the use of rubber dams. The rubber dam allows us to isolate the tooth from saliva, which is crucial for the placement of composite fillings. This ensures that the material does not come into contact with moisture, which guarantees the longevity and stability of the seal.