Restoration of teeth

Introduction:

Restoration of teeth is a treatment to reinstate the function and morphology of the tooth structure which has resulted due to tooth decay or an external trauma.

Types of restorations:

Amalgam Filling:

These are the widely used fillings used by dentists globally. They are made up with combination of metal giving high strength but poor aesthetics hence not in use.

Composite Filling:

These are teeth coloured fillings. They bond to the teeth well giving a natural tooth like appearance. They are mostly recommended for front teeth due to their colour but are also advised for patients who do not want their fillings to look artificial. These can be done both in front and back teeth due to their appearance and strength.

Glass Ionomer Filling:

These are white coloured fillings which bind to the teeth chemically. They are recommended for back teeth where the amount of stress applied is less due to their low strength.

Inlay:

These type of restorations are recommended when there amount of lost tooth structure is more. These are fabricated in the lab and are fixed onto the tooth using a cement. They can be of two types metal or ceramic.

FAQ:

When should one get a dental filling ?

It is advised to get a dental filling when there is a loss of tooth structure, which is usually indicated by teeth sensitivity but not always. Therefore it is highly recommended to get your teeth checked regularly.

How long does a filling stay ?

There is no exact evidence on the life of a filling because when a tooth can wear off it is likely that even the restoration can. The life depends upon one’s eating habit and oral hygiene.

Is getting a dental filling a painful procedure?

Absolutely not, a dental filling is a non-invasive procedure which involves removing of decayed tooth and restoring it with a filling material.