Tooth filling
Tooth filling is a treatment for symptoms of tooth decay, such as cracked or chipped teeth, in the stage where there is only damage to the tooth pulp. This is caused by many reasons, including using your teeth to chew on hard objects with too much force. Dental fillings are therefore an option to restore teeth in areas that have decayed. The doctor will use a surgical procedure to remove the decayed area and fill in the area that was removed. To keep the tooth in its original shape Can be used normally And it doesn't cause the decayed part to expand as well.
How many types of tooth fillings are there?
There are three types of tooth fillings, according to the type of material used.
- Dental fillings with amalgam. Amalgam is made from a combination of mercury, silver, tin, or other metals. It is a filling material that has a metallic color. It was popular in the past. And is commonly used to fill back teeth such as molars and premolars because it is a prominent feature of strength. Resistant to chewing force well Can be used for up to 10–15 years.
- Teeth are filled with composite resin (composite) made from composite resin. Color similar to natural teeth Commonly used to fill the front teeth for beauty. Currently, there is development to make composite resins stronger. Therefore, it can also be used to fill back teeth.
- Glass ionomer cement is commonly used as a dental filling for young children. and risk of tooth decay Because glass ionomers release fluoride to prevent tooth decay, There are also other types of filling materials, such as gold and porcelain.
Why do you need a tooth filling?
A filling will help seal the space and prevent bacteria or food particles from falling into the tooth cavity. until inflammation occurs in the tooth. This will cause problems such as gingivitis, pus, tooth decay spreading to the root cavity, tooth root decay, tooth falling, and tooth death.
Does a tooth filling hurt?
Filling a tooth will feel sensitive when the tooth has to be drilled. If the tooth decay is deep, the position very close to the nerve cavity will be very painful. The doctor will evaluate the patient's condition. and provide anesthetics to prevent pain or tooth sensitivity that may occur. And if the patient has minor caries, anesthesia may not be needed.
Does filling a tooth take a long time?
Filling a tooth may take approximately 30 minutes or more, depending on the position of the tooth, the condition of the tooth decay, and if the patient has many teeth that need to be filled. This may be done by gradually receiving dental fillings.