Dental Filling
Restore the health, function and beauty of your teeth
Preserve your oral health and restore your smile’s natural beauty.
Dental fillings
Dental fillings are a common and widely recommended restorative solution designed to repair and restore teeth affected by decay or damage. Getting a filling involves carefully removing decayed portions of a tooth using precise dental tools. Once the decay is cleared away, the cavity it leaves behind is filled with suitable materials to restore the tooth’s structure, function and appearance.
Don’t leave tooth decay untreated
Leaving tooth decay untreated is a leading cause of many oral health complications. Tooth decay happens when harmful bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode the protective layer of your teeth, leading to cavities. These cavities can deepen and cause pain, sensitivity, and discomfort if left untreated. Cavities can progress to more severe dental issues, such as infection, abscess, and tooth loss.
Common types of dental fillings
Composite fillings: Composite fillings are made of a durable resin material designed to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth colour. They are an excellent choice for visible teeth, such as the front teeth, as they provide an aesthetically pleasing restoration. Composite fillings are versatile and can be used to repair worn, chipped, or broken teeth.
Ceramic fillings: Ceramic fillings offer exceptional durability and natural aesthetics crafted from high-quality porcelain. Their stain-resistant properties help maintain a long-lasting, attractive appearance. Ceramic fillings are an ideal option for those seeking a long term and aesthetically pleasing restoration that closely matches the colour and translucency of their natural teeth.
Amalgam fillings: While once widely used, amalgam fillings have become less popular due to aesthetic concerns, the presence of mercury, and environmental concerns regarding waste byproduct. Dental Crafted does not offer these types of fillings, and prefers to focus on superior and more contemporary alternatives.
Dental filling procedure
If you require a dental filling, the following is a general overview of what you can expect during the procedure:
1. Numbing the area: Before the procedure begins, your dentist may apply a local anaesthetic if deemed necessary. The process involves numbing the area around the tooth being treated to remove any discomfort.
4. Placing the filling material: Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will fill the cavity with the chosen filling material. The type of filling material will depend on various factors, including the location and size of the cavity, as well as your personal preferences.
2. Removal of decay: Using a dental handpiece , your dentist will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step is crucial to eliminate the source of infection and create a clean surface for adhesion of the filling.
5. Shaping and polishing: After placing the filling material, your dentist will shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth. This ensures a comfortable bite and a seamless appearance. The filling is then polished to create a smooth surface that blends in with the rest of your tooth.
3. Tooth preparation: After removing the decay, your dentist will shape the tooth to create an ideal space for the filling material. Tooth preparation involves cleaning and disinfecting the cavity and ensuring the surrounding tooth structure is sound.
6. Bite adjustment: Your dentist will check your bite to ensure that it feels natural and comfortable. Minor adjustments may be made to the filling to optimise your bite alignment if needed.
Throughout the procedure, Dr Cipriani will take every measure to ensure your comfort, though, it must be said that his primary goal is always meticulous execution of the treatment at hand.
Caring for your dental fillings
Proper care and maintenance of your dental fillings is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain your oral health. Below are some guidelines that can assist you in taking care of your dental fillings:
- Avoid excessive force: Be mindful of habits that can put excessive pressure on your teeth, such as biting on hard and sticky foods. These actions can lead to cracks or damage to your fillings. Consider using a night guard if you grind your teeth or a mouthguard if you participate in contact sports.
- Watch your diet: It is advisable to restrict your intake of foods and drinks that are high in sugar and acidity. These factors can lead to tooth decay and compromise the strength of your fillings. Choose a well-balanced diet that supports and maintains good oral health.
- Attend regular dental check-ups: You may schedule routine dental check-ups and cleanings every 6 months or as your dentist advises. This will allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your fillings. They can identify any signs of wear, damage, or decay early on and address them promptly.
- Maintain good overall health: Some health conditions, such as bruxism (teeth grinding) or acid reflux, can impact how long your fillings will last. It is essential to inform your dentist about any relevant health concerns you may have so that they can provide appropriate care and recommendations.
- Address concerns promptly: In case you observe any changes in your dental fillings, like sensitivity, pain, or a rough texture, it is advisable to get in touch with your dentist promptly. Timely intervention can prevent further complications and ensure the longevity of your dental fillings.
- Practise good oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is recommended. Additionally, it is essential to floss your teeth on a daily basis. Regularly cleaning your teeth can aid in the removal of plaque and food particles, which may otherwise lead to tooth decay and damage to your fillings.
Remember that dental fillings are not permanent and may require replacement over time. It is essential to follow these care guidelines and keep in touch with your dentist regularly to ensure that your fillings last longer and your smile remains healthy and beautiful.
Meticulous dental filling treatment
If dental fillings are required, you really want these completed in a meticulous manner, to ensure your tooth coloured filling is looking good and is structurally sound for as long as possible. So, while dental fillings may be the ‘bread and butter’ for most dental practices, Dr Cipriani will treat your dental fillings as he does all his treatments – with great care, skill, practicality, and the necessary time to ensure success.