Treating Tooth Decay With a Dental Filling

Following the treatment of a cavity, you will need a dental filling to pack the tooth. Cavities are the result of tooth decay, which is a process you can prevent with proper oral hygiene. Even so, it is a common issue that most patients can expect to deal with in their lifetimes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 90% of adults have had at least one cavity. Children are also highly susceptible to this type of oral health problem.

Tooth decay and cavities should be treated promptly. Failure to seek care from a dental professional can result in numerous complications, including:

• Decay that spreads to other teeth
• Weakening of the overall tooth structure
• Infections
• Gum disease
• Increased tooth sensitivity and pain
• Tooth loss

This is true for both baby teeth and permanent teeth. In some situations, a dentist may postpone a filling in baby teeth if the decay is minimal and can be slowed down with the use of topical fluoride. However, this is not the case for severe decay. Cavities in permanent teeth are typically treated with a filling as soon as possible.

Like many other types of dental work, patients now have several options to choose from when it comes to getting a dental filling. If you need one, you will have the choice between either metal-based or metal-free varieties. Considering the pros and cons of each can help you make a more informed decision.

What causes tooth decay and how is a dental filling used to treat it?

When saliva and carbohydrates from food or drinks combine in your mouth, an acid is formed that eats away at your tooth's enamel, which is the protective layer outside of a tooth that shields it from bacteria that causes tooth decay. If the enamel is destroyed due to a lack of proper oral hygiene, your tooth is exposed to this bacteria, which will invade the tooth and cause decay.

Tooth decay can be prevented by brushing at least twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. Your dentist may discover problems with your tooth enamel that you would not otherwise be able to see on your own, and they may recommend enamel-strengthening toothpaste that can reverse the process before tooth decay occurs. However, if a cavity has already formed, it will need to be cleaned, and a dental filling will be used to pack and protect the tooth from further harm.

Fillings, like teeth, require careful oral hygiene and visits to your dentist to last as long as possible and prevent problems from happening. For many people, they can last for decades, while others may need to have them redone after a few years. This is especially true for people with chronic tooth decay.

What is the difference between a metal and metal-free dental filling?

Fillings can be either metal-based or metal-free, and you will often have a choice between one or the other when getting a dental filling. Gold and amalgam fillings are composed of metal. A metal dental filling stands out for its durability but has the weakness of not having a natural color. Consequently, these types of fillings are typically used for back teeth where the bulk of chewing occurs. They are less often used for front teeth due to cosmetic differences.

Because amalgam fillings contain mercury, you may have concerns about their safety. However, rest assured that amalgam fillings are safe, as the type of mercury used in these fillings is not the same as the toxic kind. While children under six years of age should not use amalgam fillings, they are perfectly safe for anyone at or above that age.

Metal-free fillings do not contain metal. Unlike metal fillings, this type of dental filling is popularly used for front teeth because it has a natural appearance. Glass ionomer and composite fillings are metal-free varieties. The former is special in that it may release fluoride into the mouth, which is a mineral that strengthens enamel and prevents tooth decay.

Conclusion

Tooth decay causes cavities, which will need to be packed with a dental filling to prevent further harm. If your dentist determines you need a filling, you will likely have several options from which to choose. Talk with your dentist about your priorities so they can help you choose the right material for your treatment. With proper care, your new filling can last for many years.

Request an appointment here: https://www.soflodentistinplantation.com or call Gorfinkel Dentistry at (954) 231-5007 for an appointment in our Plantation office.

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