Dental fillings are single or mixed plastics, metals, glass, or other materials utilized to repair or restore teeth. Fillings Bronx is also used to restore fractured or broken teeth and teeth worn down due to usage (such as tooth grinding or nail-biting).
The various types of fillings
Your dentist will discuss the different materials utilized to fill your cavity. According to the ADA (American Dental Association), some of the commonly used alternatives include the following materials:
- Silver-color fillings: These are metal amalgams made up of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This substance is more durable than tooth-colored fillings and is typically less expensive than other materials. Although some individuals are concerned about the mercury presence, the American Dental Association has found no clinical evidence that amalgam fillings are dangerous. Nonetheless, these fillings are being phased out.
- Gold fillings: This alloy of gold, copper, and other metals is extremely durable, although it is more costly. They also don’t appear natural. Gold fillings are often produced in a lab when your dentist imprints your tooth.
- White tooth-colored fillings (composites): They are made from a combination of glass or quartz particles and acrylic resin. Also, this material is more expensive than metal amalgams but lasts longer.
- Glass ionomer fillings: They are also tooth-colored but less strong than composites. They are constructed of acrylic and fluoride-containing glass, which can help prevent cavities. They are more costly than amalgams and frequently used for children’s teeth.
- Porcelain fillings: They are comparable in price to gold fillings but appear more natural. Porcelain fillings are created in a lab when your specialist takes an imprint of your tooth.
The causes of tooth sensitivity after a dental filling procedure
Dental sensitivity following filling implantation is fairly typical. Air, pressure, sugary foods, and temperature may all cause tooth sensitivity. The sensitivity typically goes away independently within a few weeks. You are advised to avoid the cause of the sensitivity until then. Also, a pain reliever is usually unnecessary.
Consult your dentist if the sensitivity doesn’t go away within two to four weeks or your tooth is particularly sensitive. They may suggest utilizing desensitizing toothpaste, applying a desensitizing chemical to the tooth, or performing a root canal treatment.
How long do dental fillings last?
Your dental hygiene habits influence how long your filling lasts. Diligent dental care may extend the life of your filling and prevent the formation of a new cavity on your tooth. Also, a filling’s lifespan might vary depending on the materials utilized. Since everyone’s teeth and lifestyle are unique, these periods may differ from person to person. Generally:
- Amalgam fillings have a lifespan of between 5 and 25 years.
- Gold fillings have a lifespan of between 15 and 20 years.
- Composite fillings have a lifespan of between 5 and 15 years.
Dental fillings are relatively common and rarely painful. The operation typically takes around an hour for a standard, straightforward filling. Ask your dentist about the benefits and cons of different filling materials for your tooth. They can also inform you how to care for your filling. Call Advanced Dental Care of Riverdale or book your consultation online to determine which dental filling procedure suits you.
