Is there anything worse than a toothache? It’s there constantly and makes it hard to eat or drink anything. If this is what you are experiencing, it is more than likely that you need a dental filling.
It will alleviate your pain and prevent any further damage to your tooth. This is a guide to everything you need to know about Tooth filling and how they work.
What are tooth fillings?
To be able to explain correctly, you should first know what cavities are. Cavities are formed from tooth decay, which creates a hole in your tooth. These cavities should be filled right away to avoid further spread of the decay.
Your dentist will clean out the areas with tooth decay during the appointment and insert a Tooth filling that will act as your tooth’s structure. If you ignore your cavity, the pain will worsen, and eventually, the tooth will have to be removed.
Are There Different Types of Dental Fillings?
There are two types of fillings: metal and tooth-colored. Have you ever seen someone laugh, and there is a bit of silver in their teeth? These are amalgam fillings, and they fall under the metal category. Another option from that category is gold fillings.
The options under the tooth-colored category are:
- Composite
- Porcelain
- glass ionomer
The most durable filling is the gold option, and not far behind that are the composite and porcelain fillings. It would be best to ask your dentist to help you choose which material would be best suited for your situation and how much each option will cost.
1. Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings were the most common fillers used in the past. They will also be your most affordable option. However, many new advancements have been made, and a dentist will not usually recommend this option.
To prepare your tooth for these fillings, the dentist will have to remove some tooth structures. This is why this option is so widely unpopular, as removing additional structure will cause the weakening of the remaining tooth in the long run.
An amalgam can be placed in any of your teeth; this includes your incisors, although most people prefer not to have them on their front teeth. They can be made from an assortment of metals that include:
- Mercury
- Copper
- Silver
- Tin
These materials are strong, making them ideal for molars. If you are concerned about the mercury in the filling, don’t worry; it’s a tiny amount that can not harm you.
2. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are the strongest and best material. It is easily inserted and forms well inside your cavity. This makes your tooth strong enough to handle the pressure that comes with chewing.
Typically, these fillings are made from a mixture of:
- Gold
- Silver
- Copper
As you can imagine, this option could be pretty pricey but will have the longest-lasting results. Unfortunately, choosing the gold option will mean that you will need to go for two appointments.
During your first appointment, your dentist will take a mold of your tooth. Then, the mold will be sent away to be manufactured. Once your filling is ready, you will be called back for a second appointment, where the dentist will place it.
At AstaDent Clinic Turkey, we have highly skilled Dentists in the Dental treatments field in addition to the experienced medical crew and the Clinic, which is equipped with advanced technologies. Click here to get an appointment for a free consultation.
3. Composite Fillings
The natural look is always better, and you can achieve this with composite fillings. They are also known as white fillings and are created from a quartz or glass resin.
It has to be inserted in layers but can be done in one appointment. After each layer is applied, your dentist will use a special light to harden them. Once the layers have been added, the dentist will buffer any rough patches to ensure a natural and smooth look and feel.
At AstaDent Clinic Turkey, we have highly skilled Dentists in the Dental treatments field in addition to the experienced medical crew and the Clinic, which is equipped with advanced technologies. Click here to get an appointment for a free consultation.
4. Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are either made in-office or at a lab. Dentistry has made significant improvements over the years, and these fillings are powerful enough to support your tooth for a long time. There are also combinations of porcelain and metal options available, which are very common.
They can be pricey but not as expensive as the gold option. Depending on what your dentist offers, you can have them applied in one visit to make the filling in-office.
Some dentists do not offer this service, so you will need two appointments. The first appointment is for creating an impression of your tooth, which will be sent to a laboratory where they are made. On your second appointment, the dentist will install your filling.
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings
This is a minor effective filling available. These teeth fillers are frail, and most dentists will not recommend them. The only time they are used is when there are no other options available. Usually, they are used as a temporary option until a more permanent and resilient filling can be placed.
When Should My Fillings be Replaced?
If your fillings start to change color, or you are experiencing pain in a tooth that has been filled, you should see your dentist as it is time to have your filling replaced.
Other signs will include:
- If your filling is loose and moving around
- If they break or you see a crack
- If your tooth is feeling course, it should be smooth
- Dark-colored spots or holes
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Pain when biting
- Toothache
It is recommended that you should visit your dentist at least twice a year for a routine inspection. You will be examined to ensure your fillings are still intact, and sometimes, X-rays will be taken to ensure there is no decay hiding beneath them.
Should you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to get to a dentist as soon as possible to ensure no further discomfort or damage to your tooth.
How Much Does Tooth Filling Cost?
The amount you need to spend will depend on what type of filling you choose; some are more expensive than others.
- Amalgam Filling: The price can range from $50-$150 for a single filling.
- White or Tooth-Colored Composite Filling: This option can set you back $90-$250 per filling
- God or Porcelain fillings: These are the most expensive options you can choose and will cost $250-$4500 per filling. It is tough to predict the cost of fillings due to factors like how hard the filling is to reach and any excess work that needs to be done.
At AstaDent Clinic Turkey, we have highly skilled Dentists in the Dental treatments field in addition to the experienced medical crew and the Clinic, which is equipped with advanced technologies. Click here to get an appointment for a free consultation.
What is Temporary Fillings
Temporary fillings are installed when your tooth is susceptible to healing the nerve before a permanent one is placed. Once your tooth has healed, your dentist will re-evaluate the tooth to ensure no further action needs to be taken, like having a root canal done.
What are they made of?
Temporary fillings are made of materials that are not meant to last, making them easier to remove. These fillings are made from:
- Zinc Oxide Eugenol
- Cavit
- Glass ionomers
- Intermediate restorative materials
Temporary fillings do not look the same as the permanent options made to blend with your natural teeth. Their shading is different, and you can expect colors like:
- Bright white
- Light gray
- White with a blue hue
- Light pink
Luckily, they are only temporary, and you can expect a more natural look once your permanent fillings are positioned.
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In AstaDent Clinic Turkey, we offer high-quality, specialized, and affordable dental treatment services. Visit Our full article about Dental Implants, or go back to the Blog.
FAQs
How long do dental fillings last?
The duration of your filling will depend on what type you get. For example, gold, amalgam, and porcelain fillings can last up to 15 – 20 years, depending on how well they were installed and cared for.
When should dental fillings be replaced?
With modern technology, most fillings should last up to 10 years. Still, sometimes they need to be replaced before then, as they can loosen or dislodge, primarily if they are located in your incisors or canines due to biting into food.
Do dental fillings hurt?
When getting a dental filling, the area around the affected tooth will be numbed, so you should not feel anything. However, some people do experience a little discomfort once the numbing agent wears off.
How long do temporary fillings last?
Their exact life span will vary depending on what materials are used. Generally, they can last for weeks or even a few months.
What is the best dental filling?
The most popular dental filling material is composite. They contain quartz or glass resin, making them solid and durable.
What are the safest dental fillings?
Composite fillings are the safest filling material to use. They are made from quartz or glass resin and will blend in with your natural teeth.
How does the tooth filling process work?
During the appointment, your dentist will clean out the areas in your tooth that have decay. Once the cavity is completely clean, a filling is inserted, which will act as your tooth structure. He will then smooth out any rough patches for a more natural look and feel.
