Filling a cavity is a common and relatively simple procedure that all dentists can perform. In fact, many people can expect to have this type of treatment at least once in their lifetimes. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 92% of Americans between the ages of 20 and 64 have had at least one cavity in their permanent teeth. While a dental filling is usually used to fill cavities, it may also be used to repair damage related to teeth grinding or to fix up a partially broken tooth.
Cavities require dental fillings. A cavity is a result of tooth decay. Tooth decay first begins as a deterioration of the enamel on your teeth. If you frequently visit your dentist for cleanings and checkups, he or she may be able to catch the beginnings of tooth decay, and the process might be reversible before you need a dental filling. However, if your enamel is eroded enough because of tooth decay, the decay will reach the dentin layer, which is full of nerve endings. At this stage, your cavity will have distinct symptoms that you will likely notice, and you may need a dental filling.
You should get a filling as soon as you are aware of a cavity, but you may not realize you have a cavity right away. When you notice a hole in your tooth is not the ideal time to visit your dentist for treatment. Instead, try to notice the signs of a forming cavity before it advances into a visible hole. Some of the common symptoms are:
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your dentist. He or she may be able to treat your cavity before it gets any worse and minimize your need for a dental filling.
Filling a tooth is a straightforward process that only takes about an hour. Most of this time is spent taking X-rays or preparing you for the procedure. The actual filling takes only a few minutes to complete.
You likely will not feel much, if any, pain because the first step in any filling is to numb the affected area. After the tooth and surrounding area are numb, your dentist will drill into the cavity to clean out the infection. The filling will then be installed and set.
Depending on the type of filling you receive, the installation of the filling may take different amounts of time. For example, metal fillings such as amalgam or gold do not require much time compared to non-metal fillings such as porcelain or composite.
After the procedure, it will take a few hours for the numbing to wear off, but you are unlikely to feel any severe lasting pain or discomfort. Your dentist will tell you what to expect after the procedure and give you contact information in case you experience any problems.
Both metal-based and composite- or resin-based fillings have their advantages. Dentists often recommend metal fillings for teeth toward the back of the mouth when durability could be an issue, such as in children or people with chronic bruxism. Composite or resin fillings can also be used in the back of the mouth and they are usually the material of choice for the front teeth because they provide a more natural finished look. In general, metal fillings last longer but they can lead to some sensitivity issues. Patients may have concerns about the mercury they contain, although the amounts are minimal and deemed safe by the Food and Drug Administration.
Within a day or so after treatment, you can resume normal brushing and flossing habits. In fact, these are an important part of caring for dental fillings, as they can help reduce the risk of future tooth decay and gum disease. Fillings are relatively durable, but avoiding or limiting sticky, crunchy, or tough foods can help reduce the risks of unnecessary damage.
If you get a cavity, you will likely need a dental filling. Consult your dentist if you experience any of the symptoms of a cavity. Thankfully, the procedure for getting a filling is common, brief, and relatively painless.
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