Why Are Dental Fillings Good for Oral Health?

1. Why Are Dental Fillings Good for Oral Health? Dental cavities are formed for many reasons. These may include eating sugary food, not maintaining dental hygiene, and frequent snacking, among others. Also called caries or tooth decay, cavities are usually formed on the hard surface of your teeth. In cavities, there is a breakdown of the tooth enamel as a result of the action of bacteria, which breaks the food present in and around the teeth to form acids. These acids eat away the enamel, leading to tooth decay. And should such cavities go deep, you would not have any option but to make a dash to the Northcote emergency dentist, who in all probability might recommend a dental filling. Yes, a dental filling is a

2. relatively painless procedure that can help preserve your living tooth structure while taking the decayed portion away. However, dental fillings always come with questions such as · Will these be permanent? · Will the procedure hurt? · Do amalgam or silver fillings last a long time? What is a dental filling? It is a dental procedure to restore a tooth, or at least a part of it, from decay. It is about removing the decayed area by cleaning and filling the space with some material like amalgam, composite, porcelain, glass ionomer, and even gold. The material makes the tooth return to its original shape and function. The materials used by dentists to repair and restore damaged or decayed teeth When a tooth is affected by decay or a cavity, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the resulting space is filled with a dental filling. Fillings help to restore the tooth's function, shape, and integrity, preventing further decay and damage. How does the dentist determine if you need a filling? In addition to the intense pain and sensitivity you may feel surrounding your teeth, there may be food particles getting stuck in the hollow areas of your dental cavity. And in case you feel the pain refuses to subside, it is time you visited a Northcote dentist for a quick diagnosis and treatment. There is no point in delaying the appointment by using numbing agents such as clove oil, for it may prolong your agony and cause the cavity to spread further. Why is dental filling needed in the first place? The reasons to have a dental filling are mentioned below. Preventing Tooth Decay: Dental fillings are essential for preventing tooth decay from spreading further. By removing the decayed portion and filling the cavity, dentists, say from Northcote dental clinic, halt the progression of decay and protect the tooth from further damage. Restoring Tooth Functionality: Teeth affected by decay often suffer from reduced functionality, leading to discomfort and difficulty while chewing. Dental fillings restore the tooth's functionality, allowing individuals to bite and chew without pain or discomfort. Relieving Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity, a common symptom of decay, can be alleviated through dental fillings. The filling material covers exposed nerves, reducing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet substances. Preventing Tooth Loss: If left untreated, decay can progress to the point where tooth extraction becomes necessary. Dental fillings help preserve the natural tooth structure, preventing tooth loss and the need for more extensive dental procedures like implants or

3. bridges. What are the types of dental fillings? There are many types of dental fillings, which may be chosen depending upon their strength, cost, aesthetics, and longevity. Amalgam: This is arguably the most common dental filling used by dentists from the Northcote dental clinic on High Street and is shiny silver in colour. With time, it turns a dull grey, as silver happens to be a corroding material. Due to its low cost and easy placement, this is a popular choice. However, since it contains mercury, amalgam may carry an unnecessary risk. It may last 10–15 years. Composite resin or plastic: Composed of mainly acrylic resin and glass, composite fillings can be a good choice for the front teeth as they match the natural colour of the teeth. Best suited for smaller cavities, these are not long-lasting—between 3 and 10 years. Porcelain: Here, the filling is first shaped while the patient waits and can be put on in a single visit. Also known as onlays or inlays, these are sent to a lab for fabrication. These can match the coloration of your teeth like composites and are more resistant to stains. It may last 15–20 years. Gold: Extremely durable, gold is an excellent choice for tooth filling as it is well tolerated by the gum tissue. Although not exactly known as fillings, gold can be categorised as casting, wherein the material is poured after cleaning your tooth. The procedure may require two visits, while the fillings may last between 15 and 20 years, sometimes even up to 40 years. Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings are made from a combination of acrylic and glass powders. They release fluoride, which helps prevent further decay. These fillings are suitable for areas with low bite pressure and are often used in children's primary teeth. Conclusion Dental fillings are a relatively painless procedure that helps preserve your living tooth while removing the decayed one. To prevent cavities or caries, it is advisable to follow a healthy oral routine while making an appointment with a Northcote emergency dentist should the pain associated with cavities hit you at unearthly hours. Source: https://northcotefamilydental.blogspot.com/2024/01/dental- fillings-for-oral-health.html

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