Learn All about the Benefits of Fillings from Our Bayside Family Dentist
A filling is a procedure that restores a tooth damaged by decay. It helps the tooth go back to its normal function and shape, in addition to preventing decay from further developing. A filling removes the areas where bacteria enters the tooth.
If you need a filling, our Bayside family dentist determines which type of filling material you need for your cavity. Lots of factors go into a filling material for your cavity such as the extent of the repair, where the filling needs to be placed, and whether you're allergic to certain dental materials. Seeing Dr. Davantzis best determines which filling is best for you. The different types of fillings you can receive include a composite filling, amalgam filling, gold filling, ceramic filling, and glass ionomer.
A composite filling is made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles that match the color of the tooth. They're used mostly on visible teeth like the front teeth and are bonded directly on the tooth. This type of filling is stronger than amalgam fillings and reduces the need for drilling. Amalgam fillings are fillings made from a mixture of metals like mercury or silver. This type of filling is commonly used for back teeth and usually lasts for at least 10 years.
Gold fillings are the most durable type of filling and are made from gold. They're the most expensive filling and aren’t the same natural color as your tooth. Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain, more resistant to staining, and match the color of a natural tooth. Ceramic fillings are also expensive and can be priced as high as gold fillings, sometimes even more. The downside to ceramic fillings is how brittle they are in comparison to composite resin. This can cause them to break more easily.
Glass Ionomer fillings are a strong type of filling made out of acrylic and fluoroaluminosilicate, which is a component of glass. This filling is commonly used when a lot of decay in the tooth goes beyond to the gum. It can also be used for baby teeth.
Once the decay is removed, Dr. Davantzis will prepare the tooth for the filling. Preparation includes shaping the area for the filling needed to ensure it stays secure. Depending on the type of filling you need, it may require being hardened by a special light. With these fillings, your Bayside family dentist will layer the material, stopping several times, to shine a bright light on the resin. This special light hardens the material, making it strong.
Once you’ve gotten your filling, you may experience a few side effects from the procedure. You may experience tingling, numbness, and minor pain around the injection site. Your tooth may also become sensitive to pressure, cold air, cold liquids, or sweet foods. These side effects are temporary and usually go away within a few hours of the procedure. If sensitivity doesn’t subside after two weeks, contact Dr. Davantzis for a follow-up. Other side effects include pain from a filling that’s too high and galvanic shock, which is a sharp shock that occurs when your teeth touch.
The best way to fight cavities and prevent future fillings is to take proper care of your teeth. Visiting our Bayside family dentist regularly, brushing your teeth twice a day, and using a cavity prevention toothpaste are a few steps to ensure your teeth are in good health.