Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed a small black spot on your tooth, or a slightly chipped tooth? Maybe you've even felt a tooth go numb when you drink a little cold water. This is when something called a "dental filling" comes to our rescue. Although many people are afraid of going to the dentist, a dental filling is a very simple and important treatment that can save a tooth without having to extract it. So let's take the fear out of it and learn a little more about it.
What exactly is this dental filling?
Simply put, a dental filling is a process of filling a cavity or small crack in your tooth caused by decay with a special material to restore it to its original condition. It's like filling a small hole in a wall with a 'wall filler'.
This will stop further decay, strengthen the tooth, and allow you to eat normally without any pain. This is a much better solution than having the tooth extracted .
What are the main types of dental fillings?
Although there are many different types of dental fillings, they can be divided into two main categories. These are same-day fillings and fillings that take about two days. Let's take a look at the table below to understand this more clearly.
| Filling category | Materials used | Special points |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Fillings (same day fillings) | ||
| Amalgam | A mixture of mercury with metals such as silver, copper, and zinc. | Silver in color. Very durable, strong. Suitable for back teeth. |
| Composite (Resin Composite) | A mixture made of things like plastic and glass powder. | It matches the color of the tooth. It is most suitable for front teeth. |
| Glass Ionomer | A material made from silica glass powder. | Matches the color of the tooth. Releases fluoride into the tooth and prevents decay. |
| Indirect Fillings (fillings made in a lab and placed) | ||
| Gold | A mixture of gold and other metals. | Very strong, lasts for years. Expensive. |
| Porcelain | A mixture of several minerals. | It matches the color of the tooth, does not stain, and gives a natural look. |
If the tooth decay is severe enough that a regular filling cannot be placed but the tooth is not decayed enough to require a full crown, your doctor may recommend a special type of filling called an inlay or onlay.
What actually happens when a tooth is filled?
This process is not as scary as you might think. Your doctor will perform these steps very carefully.
1. Tooth and gum anesthesia: First, a local anesthetic is injected so that you don't feel any pain.
2. Removing the decayed part: Next, the decayed tissue of the tooth is completely cleaned and removed using special instruments.
3. Filling the gap: Fill the cleaned gap with a suitable filling material and fill it well.
4. Strengthening the filling: If it is a filling like composite, it is exposed to a blue light (curing light) and strengthens it in a few seconds.
5. Polishing and checking the bite: Finally, the filling is polished and you are asked to chew with your mouth closed. If there is no change or difficulty in the bite (chewing method), the job is done.
If you are afraid of going to the doctor, you can talk about it in advance and, if necessary, even discuss sedation dentistry.
Are silver (amalgam) fillings really safe?
This is a problem for many people. Major health organizations around the world, such as the American Dental Association (ADA) and the FDA, say that amalgam fillings are generally safe . However, those same organizations have recently advised certain groups of people to be careful when using them. The reason is that the mercury in these fillings can release a very small amount of vapor.
Groups that should avoid amalgam fillings as much as possible:
- Pregnant women and unborn children.
- Women who are planning to become pregnant within the next year.
- Nursing mothers and their babies.
- Children under 6 years old.
- People with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease.
- People with poor kidney function.
- People with allergies to mercury or other ingredients in the filling.
Most importantly: If you already have an old amalgam filling in your mouth that is in good condition, it is not recommended to have it removed . This is because the process of removing it can increase the risk of exposure to mercury vapor. It is best to discuss this with your doctor before making a decision.
Possible situations and problems after filling
It is normal to experience some numbness or mild pain in the gums for a few days after a tooth is filled. This will gradually go away. However, if you experience any of the symptoms below, you should be concerned.
Can I eat after a tooth filling?
Technically, eating while having a filling won't harm the filling. But it's best to wait until the numbness has completely gone. Otherwise, you might end up biting your cheek or lip without realizing it.
When do you want to call the doctor again?
Call your doctor immediately if the following happens:
- Filling breaking or coming loose.
- Severe pain that persists despite taking painkillers.
- Swelling of the face or jaw.
- Signs of infection such as fever and chills.
Does it hurt when you get a tooth filled?
No. Because your doctor will numb the area around the tooth completely before starting the treatment. If you feel any discomfort, you can let them know right away and they can give you more numbing medication.
Take-Home Message
- A dental filling is nothing to be afraid of. It is a very effective and common treatment for saving a tooth from decay.
- The sooner you treat a tooth decay, the better. That way, you can save the tooth and save yourself money.
- There are several types of fillings that can be used to suit your tooth and needs. Talk to your dentist about them and choose the best one.
- Although amalgam (silver) fillings are generally safe, they are not recommended for certain groups of people.
- The most important thing is to prevent tooth decay. To do this, brush your teeth thoroughly every day and see a dentist at regular intervals.
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