Tooth fillings are a common dental treatment designed to restore the strength and functionality of a compromised tooth. Whether caused by tooth decay, fractures, or wear and tear, fillings repair the tooth and prevent further damage. What is a tooth filling? This guide will take you through everything you need to know about dental fillings, from their types to the procedure itself.
Why Do You Need a Tooth Filling?
A tooth filling is crucial when your tooth has been affected by decay, injury, or wear. Its primary role is to rebuild the tooth’s structure, functionality, and appearance while safeguarding it from additional decay or issues. Here’s a closer look at why a tooth filling might be necessary:
1. Repairing Damage from Tooth Decay
Tooth decay occurs when plaque bacteria produce acids that erode the enamel, leading to cavities. Left untreated, decay can spread deeper into the tooth, causing pain, infection, or even tooth loss. A filling removes the decayed portion and seals the cavity, protecting the affected tooth from further damage. 
2. Restoring a Damaged Tooth
Teeth can be damaged by:
- Chipping or cracking due to trauma or injury.
- Wear and tear from grinding (bruxism) or chewing hard foods. Fillings repair these damages, restoring the tooth’s natural structure and functionality.
3. Preserving Natural Tooth Structure
One key benefit of fillings is that they preserve as much of the original natural tooth structure as possible. By filling a cavity or repairing a small crack, the need for more extensive treatments like crowns or root canals is reduced.
4. Preventing Further Decay
Once a cavity forms, it creates an entry point for bacteria. A filling acts as a barrier, sealing the tooth and preventing bacteria from causing additional decay or infection.
5. Improving Comfort and Function
A damaged tooth can lead to:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Pain when biting or chewing. By filling the damaged area, these issues are resolved, restoring comfort and the ability to eat without discomfort.
6. Avoiding More Complex Dental Procedures
Addressing the issue early with a filling can save you from more complicated and expensive treatments down the line, such as:
- Root canals if the caries reach the tooth pulp.
- Tooth extractions if the damage becomes irreparable.
- Crowns to restore a severely weakened tooth.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need a tooth filling:
- Persistent toothache or sensitivity.
- Visible holes, cracks, or dark spots on a tooth.
- Food frequently gets stuck in a certain tooth.
- Pain when biting or chewing.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for identifying cavities or damage early, often before symptoms become noticeable.
The Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a filling is a straightforward process that typically takes a single appointment. Here’s what happens during the dental filling procedure:
Assessment and Preparation
- The dentist examines the decayed tooth and may use X-rays to evaluate the extent of the damage.
- Local anaesthetic is applied to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Removing the Decay
- The decayed portion of the tooth is meticulously removed with specific tools, a vital step to halt further decay.
Filling the Cavity
- The cavity is carefully cleaned and prepared for the placement of the filling material. The type of material used depends on the location of the tooth and patient preference.
Shaping and Polishing
- The dentist shapes the filling to restore the tooth’s original shape and bite. It is then polished for a smooth finish.
Types of Dental Fillings: What Are Your Options?
Fillings come in various materials, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Your dentist will help you select the most suitable option for your needs.
1. Amalgam Fillings
- Composition: Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, and free mercury.
- Durability: Long-lasting and strong, ideal for molars that endure heavy chewing.
- Appearance: Noticeable metallic colour, making them less popular for visible teeth.
- Lifespan: Can last over a decade with proper care.
2. Composite Resin Fillings
- Composition: A blend of plastic and glass particles.
- Appearance: Tooth-coloured restoration, blending seamlessly with the natural tooth structure.
- Durability: Suitable for small to medium cavities but may wear out faster than amalgam fillings.
3. Gold Fillings
- Composition: A mixture of gold and other metals.
- Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to wear.
- Appearance: Shiny and noticeable, often preferred for aesthetic reasons by some.
- Cost: Among the most expensive options, often requiring a dental laboratory to craft.
4. Porcelain Fillings
- Composition: Custom-made ceramic material.
- Appearance: Tooth-coloured, offering a natural look.
- Durability: Strong and stain-resistant but requires multiple visits to fit.
- Cost: Higher price point due to the precision and material quality.
5. Glass Ionomer Cement
- Composition: A mixture of glass and acrylic.
- Best For: Temporary fillings or small cavities, particularly in children.
- Special Feature: Releases fluoride to help strengthen the tooth and prevent further decay.
Direct Fillings vs. Indirect Fillings: A Clear Comparison
Fillings can be categorised into direct and indirect types based on the placement process.
- Direct Fillings: Placed directly into the cavity during a single appointment. Composite resin and amalgam fillings fall into this category.
- Indirect Fillings: Fabricated in a dental laboratory and require at least two visits. Porcelain and gold fillings are examples.
Temporary Fillings: When Are They Needed?
Sometimes, a dentist may place a temporary filling to:
- Protect a tooth while awaiting a permanent restoration, like a crown or an indirect filling.
- Allow healing after a root canal treatment.
- Address discomfort in emergency situations.
Temporary fillings are not designed to last and should be replaced with permanent ones as soon as possible.
What Happens If You Don’t Get a Filling?
Ignoring a cavity or delaying a necessary tooth filling can lead to serious oral health complications. What starts as a small issue can escalate into significant problems, often requiring more extensive and costly treatments. Here’s a breakdown of the potential consequences of not getting a filling:
1. The Cavity Gets Bigger
Cavities don’t heal on their own. Over time, the decay will continue to spread, eating away at more of the tooth structure. A small, treatable cavity can become a large, problematic one, requiring a crown or even extraction if left unchecked.
2. Increased Pain and Sensitivity
As the cavity deepens, it exposes the tooth’s sensitive inner layers, like the dentin and pulp. This can cause:
- Pain when chewing or biting.
- Discomfort or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
- Persistent discomfort or throbbing pain.
The pain can become severe as the decay progresses, significantly impacting your quality of life.
3. Risk of Infection
When the decay reaches the tooth’s pulp—the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels—it can lead to an infection or abscess. Symptoms of a tooth infection include:
- Swelling around the affected tooth.
- Severe, sharp pain.
- A foul taste in your mouth is caused by pus drainage.
- Fever and general discomfort.
An untreated infection may require a root canal treatment or, in severe cases, tooth extraction.
4. Loss of the Tooth
If the cavity is not addressed in time, the tooth may become so compromised that it can no longer be saved. Losing a tooth can:
- Affect your ability to chew properly.
- Cause neighbouring teeth to shift, altering your bite.
- Lead to jawbone deterioration over time.
Replacing a lost tooth with options like implants, bridges, or dentures can be far more expensive and time-consuming than getting a filling.
5. Spread of Decay to Other Teeth
A cavity in one tooth can create an environment where bacteria thrive, increasing the risk of cavities forming in nearby teeth. This domino effect can compromise multiple teeth and require extensive restorative work.
6. Increased Treatment Costs
The longer you delay treatment, the more complex and costly the required procedures become. A simple filling is far less expensive than crowns, root canals, or tooth replacement options like implants or dentures.
7. Impact on Overall Health
Oral health is deeply connected to overall well-being. An untreated dental infection can potentially spread to other parts of the body, causing serious conditions such as sepsis or endocarditis (an infection of the heart lining).
8. Aesthetic and Functional Issues
- Appearance: Cavities can cause visible dark spots or holes in the teeth, which may affect your confidence when smiling.
- Functionality: Severe decay weakens the tooth, making it prone to chipping, cracking, or breaking.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Getting a filling as soon as a cavity is detected is the simplest and most effective way to:
- Prevent further damage.
- Protect the tooth’s natural structure.
- Save yourself from unnecessary pain and costly treatments.
Caring for Your Filling: Quick Tips for Long-Lasting Protection
Proper care is essential to maintain your dental filling and overall oral health. Follow these simple tips:
Brush and Floss Daily:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque around your filling.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods:
- Skip hard candies, ice, or sticky toffees that can damage or dislodge the filling.
Watch for Sensitivity:
- Use sensitive toothpaste if needed, and consult your dentist if discomfort persists.
Address Grinding or Clenching:
- Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, especially at night.
Routine Dental Check-Ups:
- Regular visits help monitor your filling for wear or damage.
Protect During Sports:
- Use a mouthguard during contact sports to shield against damage.
Eat a Balanced Diet:
- Limit sugary foods and include calcium-rich options to strengthen teeth.
Replace When Needed:
- Fillings wear out over time. Replace them promptly to avoid further issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
- Does Getting a Filling Hurt?
The procedure is generally comfortable due to the use of local anaesthetic. You may experience mild discomfort after the treatment, but it usually subsides quickly.
- How Long Do Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a filling mainly depends on the used material:
- Amalgam: 10-15 years
- Composite: 5-7 years
- Gold: 20+ years
- Porcelain: 10-15 years
- Can Fillings Fall Out?
Yes, fillings can fall out due to:
- Wear and tear over time.
- Biting into hard foods or objects.
- Improper bonding during placement. If your filling falls out, see your dentist immediately to prevent further damage or infection.
- What Is the Best Type of Filling for Front Teeth?
For front teeth, tooth-coloured fillings like composite resin or porcelain are typically recommended because they blend seamlessly with the natural enamel, offering an aesthetic and functional solution.
- Can I Eat After Getting a Filling?
This depends on the type of filling:
- Amalgam Fillings: Avoid chewing on the affected tooth for at least 24 hours.
- Composite Fillings: You can eat as soon as the numbness from the anaesthetic wears off, as these fillings harden immediately.
- What’s the Cost of a Filling?
The cost varies depending on the material, size of the cavity, and dental clinic. Composite fillings typically cost more than amalgam fillings but provide a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Can Fillings Prevent Root Canals?
Yes, getting a filling early can prevent decay from reaching the pulp (the tooth’s innermost layer). Once the pulp is affected, a root canal may be necessary.
- Are There Any Risks Associated with Fillings?
While fillings are safe, some potential risks include:
- Allergic reactions (rare) to filling materials.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the procedure, which usually resolves over time.
- Fillings can crack or wear down over time, requiring replacement.
The Role of a Dentist in Choosing the Right Filling
Your dentist plays a crucial role in determining the best filling material for your specific needs. Factors such as the location of the cavity, the tooth’s function, and your budget will influence the decision.
Final Thoughts on Tooth Fillings
Tooth fillings are a vital part of maintaining oral health, offering a simple yet effective solution for repairing cavities and preserving the natural tooth structure. By understanding the types of fillings, the procedure, and how to care for them, you can make informed decisions about your dental health. If you suspect a cavity or need advice, don’t hesitate to book an appointment at Advanced Dental Care at (02) 6188 7103.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Dental amalgam fillings. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-amalgam-fillings
- Healthline. (n.d.). Composite fillings: Pros and cons. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/composite-fillings
- Medical News Today. (n.d.). Root canal treatment: Materials, types, and what to expect. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/142780
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Tooth extraction. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22120-tooth-extraction
MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Tooth filling. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003801.htm
