What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth damaged by decay. During the procedure, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, thoroughly cleans the area, and then fills the cavity with a durable material. This helps to prevent further decay and restores the tooth’s strength and function.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are two main types of dental fillings: direct and indirect.
- Direct Fillings: These are placed in a single visit and are typically used for minor cavities. The filling material is applied directly to the cavity and hardens in place, restoring the tooth in one session.
- Indirect Fillings: Used for more extensive decay that isn’t severe enough for a crown, indirect fillings require multiple visits. Onlays and inlays are common examples. In this case, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth to create a custom filling. While waiting for the final restoration, a temporary filling is placed. Once the permanent filling is ready, it’s applied at a follow-up appointment.
Materials for both direct and indirect fillings can include composite resins, gold, ceramics, or base metal alloys, depending on the tooth's location and the patient’s needs.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings offer several important benefits:
- Prevents Further Damage: Fillings stop the progression of decay, preventing it from affecting other parts of the tooth or surrounding teeth.
- Restores Function: A filling restores the tooth's ability to chew and bite normally, improving your overall oral function.
- Easier to Clean: A filled tooth is easier to clean, reducing the risk of future cavities and promoting better oral hygiene.
- Prevents Tooth Loss: By restoring the tooth, fillings can prevent the need for more extensive treatments, such as extractions, and help preserve your natural teeth for years to come.
