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Tooth decay is the most common dental problem. The cavities are often filled with fillings, and that’s why dental fillings treatment is among the most common dental procedures. In this blog, we will discuss facts about dental fillings to help you make an informed decision about the treatment.
It is a restorative dental material used to fill holes caused by dental decay. The best material for your cavity problem will depend on the location of the tooth and the amount of money you plan to use. Here are more things you should know about the treatment.
A few years ago, the only option for filling materials was an amalgam. Amalgam is a material made of silver, mercury, and a touch of zinc, and sometimes copper. The material is strong, affordable, and it can last for more than 15 years. However, it is not as aesthetic as the newer options.
Among the most popular newer options are resin fillings. They are made of hard resin, a strong and aesthetic plastic. The material can be designed to match the color of your teeth. No one will need to know you had cavities. However, the resin is susceptible to breaks and does not last as long as amalgam. That’s why it is often recommended for front teeth.
Porcelain/ceramic fillings also exist, and they are made of tooth-colored material porcelain. The material is strong, durable, and stain-resistant. It is slightly more expensive, but it is worth every dollar. A porcelain filling is a permanent tooth filling.
Amalgam fillings are also known as silver fillings, but that does not mean they contain just silver. Standard amalgam fillings contain 52 percent mercury, 32 percent silver, and a touch of other metals such as zinc and copper.
Unfortunately, when you constantly take hot foods and chew gum, a small amount of mercury is released into the body. The mercury increases in amount with time, and it can lead to mercury poisoning.
Mercury poisoning has been associated with serious medical conditions such as liver problems, migraines, and the death of unborn children. Amalgam is even banned in countries such as Norway. That’s why we recommend metal-free fillings to our patients.
Some restorative dental procedures such as implants and bridges require you to visit the dentist at least twice before the procedure is completed. With dental fillings, you can walk into a dental clinic can leave with fillings on your tooth. Sometimes, the dentist may even not need to sedate you during the process. He will only need to sedate you if he’s repairing a severely decayed tooth.
If you are to be sedated, come along with someone to drive you home after the procedure. The sedation may affect your concentration, and you might end up causing an accident. If no one is available at the time, use a cab to take you home.
Fillings last for the longest time, but that does not mean they are indestructible. Therefore, be psychologically prepared that they will not last forever, and you might need replacement after several years. Typically, metal fillings last the longest and can last for up to 15 years. Porcelain ones last for up to ten years, while resin lasts for up to five years.
However, don’t just go for metal fillings because they are durable. Some people are having theirs removed because of toxic reactions from the mercury in them.
The materials used to make dental fillings cannot be affected by decay. However, if there is a crack on the treatment, the natural parts of your teeth can be exposed. Once exposed, they can be affected by cavities. That’s why it is crucial to continue maintaining proper oral hygiene to prevent cavities, infections, and bad breath.
Fillings are the most common for cavity treatment, but that does not mean they are the only option. You can still go for crowns for severely damaged teeth or dental bonding for small cavities. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment.
If you are looking for a Wenatchee emergency dentist, you are in the right place. We can help you with emergency problems such as toothache, extractions, and more. You can also count on us for preventive and cosmetic procedures. Book an appointment now.