A filling replaces part of a tooth that has been lost because of decay or through accidental damage.
You may hear the dentist talk about “composite”, “glass ionomer” and “compomer”- these are different types of white, tooth coloured filling material.
What will my dentist do?
Your dentist will:
- Usually numb the tooth and adjacent area with an injection – some small fillings may not need this.
- Remove any decay, together with any old filling material, and shape the cavity using a small, high speed drill.
- Wash and dry the tooth by blowing water and then air on to it.
- Use on of a variety of means to isolate the tooth and keep it dry.
- Apply a special adhesive to the tooth, typically In two or three stages, and then place the filling, again in stages.
- Harden the filling material between stages of the filling procedure, by the use of a bright light shine inside the mouth – this is called curing.
- Trim the filling as necessary then polish it, checking that you can bite together comfortably.
What are the benefits?
- A tooth needs less drilling for a white, tooth coloured filling than a silver lining.
- Unlike silver fillings, white, tooth coloured filling materials, which come in different shades to match different coloured teeth, are glued into place, sealing the filling and helping to strengthen the remaining part of the tooth. White, tooth coloured materials can be used in most situations, including the filling of back teeth and making front teeth look better.
- When used in back teeth, white, tooth coloured fillings look better than silver fillings, but take longer to place, partly because they are finished and polished in one visit. White tooth colouring may not wear as well as silver fillings but they do have the advantage that they can be repaired, rather than replaced, as and when something goes wrong.