Fillings are restorative dental procedures used to restore decayed teeth. They are used to fill dental cavities in order to prevent the decay from spreading and to maintain the structural and functional integrity of the healthy tooth structure. There are different dental materials that can be used for dental fillings, however amalgam and composite fillings are the two most common. Amalgam fillings are fabricated from a mixture of metals, while composite fillings are fabricated from composite resin.
Did you know…
According to the Canadian Health Measures Survey, around 34% of Canadians from the ages of 6-79 have been found to need some type of restorative dental treatment. Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a dental filling?
You will need a dental filling if you have a small to medium cavity caused by tooth decay. Possible signs of a cavity include:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
- Visible holes, pits, or dark places on the surface of the teeth
- Pain while biting down or applying pressure
Since tooth enamel does not grow back once it has decayed, a dental filling is the only way to restore your tooth and prevent the decay from spreading. However, fillings only work well for small to medium cavities, so larger areas of decay may need alternative restoration methods. To find out if you need a dental filling, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanket Upadhyay at Birch Point Dental Clinic.
What type of filling should I get?
As mentioned above, there are two different dental materials that are commonly used for fillings. Each material has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Dr. Sanket Upadhyay can help you to decide which material is best for you, however here is a brief idea of how these two materials compare:
Amalgam
Amalgam fillings contain a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. They have been used for decades in dentistry, are affordable, and are extremely durable, lasting about 10-15 years.
Composite Resin
Composite fillings are made from a mixture of ceramic and plastic that resembles the appearance of natural enamel. Composite fillings last around 5-7 years.
What can I expect when having a dental filling placed at Birch Point Dental Clinic?
When having a dental filling placed at Birch Point Dental Clinic, Dr. Sanket Upadhyay will first numb your mouth with dental anesthetics and offer dental sedation. Then he will begin the process by first removing any decayed tissue. The remaining cavity will then be thoroughly cleaned before it is filled with either amalgam or composite resin. Amalgam fillings require more tooth preparation, while composite fillings need to be placed in layers and hardened one layer at a time.
What can I expect after having a filling placed?
After having a filling placed, you can return to your usual routine and diet. Both amalgam and composite fillings are hardened during the procedure and will be able to immediately withstand the force of chewing and biting. After having a filling placed, you may also experience tooth sensitivity for up to 4 weeks. However, if you notice tenderness while chewing or your bite feels off, then you may need to return to Birch Point Dental Clinic for a bite adjustment.
You will need to care for your filling the same way you would care for your natural teeth by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings every six months. You should also avoid damaging behaviors such as chewing excessively hard foods, using your teeth as tools, smoking, or biting your nails.
Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Sanket Upadhyay at Birch Point Dental Clinic. Located in the Bay & Algoma neighborhood, our location allows you to have your teeth looked at while also providing the opportunity to shop local and enjoy spaghetti take out at the famous Italian Cultural Centre across the street.
