Tooth fillings and everything you need to know

Dental fillings or tooth fillings are a dental technique that uses artificial materials to fill in the missing tooth tissue. Fillings can improve both the esthetic side and chewing function.

This dental technique is often applied in a number of common situations for the purpose of:

• Filling cavities
• Recovering chipped teeth
• Reducing tooth gap
• Replacing old fillings

Available filling materials 

Nowadays, there are many different materials used to fill teeth. Depending on your personal conditions and esthetics, you can pick the most suitable filler material for you.

• Composite fillings: Composite fillings are highly effective cosmetic fillings that are chosen by many people. The ivory composite material is similar to natural teeth color but the disadvantage is less durable, especially if used to fill large tooth decay areas.
• Porcelain fillings: Besides being similar to natural teeth color, porcelain is more resistant to stains and corrosion than composite materials. Using this material to get a tooth filling can obtain the best results in treating molar problems.
• Gold fillings: Gold gives it a luxurious look and slowly affected than other materials. However, gold fillings are usually more expensive than other materials. You will also need to visit the dentist twice to complete this filling procedure.
• GIC (Glass Ionomer Cement): GIC is usually made from acrylic material and a component of glass called fluoro aluminosilicate. GIC materials often attach very tightly to teeth and minimize the possibility of cracks in the filling. However, the esthetic side of GIC is not considered a top choice due to its unlike-natural-teeth color.

Process of a tooth filling

The two most popular filling techniques today are direct and indirect fillings. Depending on the nature of the tooth filled, the dentist will recommend the right treatment for you.

Direct fillings

First of all, the dentist will check which tooth needs filling, determine the size and advise you on which types of filling materials that suit most. After that, you will be given a local anesthetic with specialized tools. Next, the dentist will fill the decayed cavities with the filling material. After applying laser, the filling will gradually harden in about 40 seconds through the polymerization reaction.

Finally, the dentist will shape the fillings, trim off any excess material, and polish the final restoration to eliminate discomfort. The normal direct filling process will last about 20 - 30 minutes and vary depending on the conditions of the teeth and the filling material.

Indirect fillings

The procedure of indirect fillings (Inlay - Onlay) is a modern method of tooth filling, which helps reduce the gap between the filling and the tooth tissue. The preliminary diagnosis and anesthesia procedure is similar to that of a direct filling. The difference is that the dentist will begin to take a dental impression and make the filling out of your jaws.

After cleaning the teeth, the dentist will take that dental impression to shape the filling into the shape and size of the gap. Usually, dental clinics will schedule you to come back after a few days to continue the filling process. Fillings after being manipulated will be fitted into the teeth with specialized cement. The procedure of indirect filling usually takes about two appointments with the dentist, 30-45 minutes each.

How to take care of your teeth after filling?

If you take good care after getting tooth filling, it will be more esthetic and will last longer. You should note the do's and don'ts:

Things you should not do

After filling, you need to avoid eating and drinking for the first two hours to give the filler enough time to dry. In addition, you should also pay attention to limit any activity that would be too rough on the filling, such as:

• Avoid eating foods that are too hard or too tough
• Avoid eating while food is still hot
• Avoid using teeth to bite hard objects
• Avoid dark-colored drinks that can stain the fillings

Things you should do

The filling should be properly cleaned and cared for to ensure its effectiveness and maintain its durability. Please follow the instructions from the dentist and take some notes after filling, such as:

• Drink plenty of water
• Gargle with saltwater
• Brush your teeth 2 times after each meal
• Use teeth floss to remove food debris
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth in moderation. Be sure to brush correctly to avoid harm on teeth.
• Visit the dentist’s for annual check-ups

After fillings, your teeth may be more sensitive to air, food or temperature. But usually, after a few weeks, the teeth will return to normal and no painkillers are needed. The pain will usually go away on its own in 1-2 weeks, if not, you should go to the dentist’s early to check if there is a problem with the filling.

You should choose a reputable dental clinic to ensure you receive a reliable filler, a proper sterile procedure, and proper care tips after filling.

The East Rose Dental (Old Rose Dental Clinic) with a team of good, experienced doctors and modern equipment will bring you quality dental solutions. Besides, The East Rose Dental (Old Rose Dental Clinic) also provides the most modern treatments and special anesthetic techniques. Thanks to that, you can not only get your teeth filled, but also experience optimal dental services without suffering from pain, and save your time.