Dental fillings are used to treat a cavity. When decay attacks a tooth, it breaks down the enamel and dentin. The bacteria inside the cavity use the sugar and starch in the food you eat to produce acid. The acid wears away the enamel and dentin, creating a hole in the tooth. The hole is called a cavity.

What Is A Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a restorative procedure that is used to repair teeth that have been affected by decay and cavities. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area with a solution that removes debris from the affected area and prevents the risk of infection, and finally, the restoration. Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures in dentistry and are necessary to treat decay and prevent further damage to your teeth.

Common Uses for Dental Fillings

The most common use of dental fillings is to replace tooth structures lost to decay. Some patients get cavities that are not very deep, while others experience more extensive damage that may require more extensive treatment. Dental fillings can also be used to repair chipped teeth, broken teeth, or spaces between the teeth.

Fillings are also used cosmetically to change the size or shape of a tooth. For example, if a patient has one tooth that is much larger than the other teeth, the dentist can use a filling material to make the tooth look more natural by evening out the size difference between the teeth.

Dental fillings are also used to replace old metal amalgam fillings or fix cracked or broken teeth. Fillings are also used to repair chipped or broken teeth and any small gaps in between teeth that are caused by tooth loss or accidents.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are a variety of materials used for dental fillings, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, and composite resin. Amalgam fillings are no longer used because they contain mercury which can pose a risk to the overall health of a patient if the material is inhaled. Composite resin is the option most preferred by most patients due to its natural look and minimal impact on oral health. The material bonds with the surrounding teeth to ensure long-lasting results.

Porcelain and ceramic dental fillings are extremely durable and are often used in molars where chewing is a daily activity. Gold is used to fill large areas since it is a strong material. Each type of filling has its pros and cons, but patients can discuss options with a dentist to determine which is best for their specific case.

For the best dental care, visit Koski DePaul Dental Group.