FILLINGS
FILLINGS
Newer dental fillings include ceramic and composite resins that mimic the appearance of natural teeth.
These composite resins were previous only used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important, but the technology has improved drastically over the years.
Composite resins are stronger now and can be used on the back teeth.
Several factors influence the performance, durability, longevity, and expense of dental restorations, including:
The components used in the filling material.
The amount of tooth structure remaining.
Where and how the filling is placed.
The chewing load that the tooth will have to bear.
The length and number of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth.
Before your treatment begins, at Bathurst College Dentistry your dentist will discuss with you all your options and help you choose the best filling for your case. In preparation for this discussion it may be helpful to understand the two basic types of dental fillings — direct and indirect.
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Direct fillings are fillings placed into a prepared cavity in a single visit.
They include glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and composite (resin) fillings.
The dentist prepares the tooth, places the filling, and adjusts it in one appointment.
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Indirect fillings generally require two or more visits.
They include inlays, onlays which can be fabricated with materials such as gold, base metal alloys, ceramics, or composites.
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They are used when a tooth has too much damage to support a filling, but not enough to necessitate a crown.
During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and makes an impression of the area to be restored.
The dentist then places a temporary covering over the prepared tooth.
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The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, which creates the dental restoration.
At the next appointment, the dentist cements the restoration into the prepared cavity and adjusts it as required.
A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc.
The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.
There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
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Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.
As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced.
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Top reasons for composite fillings
Worn teeth.
Decayed teeth.
Chipped teeth.
Cracked or broken teeth.
Closing the space between two teeth.
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Procedure
Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment.
While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay, as required.
The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed.
If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.
The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
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It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.
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At Bathurst College Dentistry our friendly team will give you post-care instructions at the completion of your treatment.
Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.
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To schedule a dental filling appointment today: Call – 416 925–0154. Email – info@bcddental.com.
Visit our team of trained dentists and hygienists at Bathurst College Dentistry.
Address: 474 College Street, Suite 103 Toronto, Ontario M6G 1A4
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