BLOGS

Get Rid of Cavities with Dental Filling in 2020

December 1st, 2019 by Sanjeev Sharma

Cavities are the most common dental problem found in almost every age group of people. It may, at first, seem a black spot on your tooth but leads to tooth extraction if not treated on time. It is essential to get your teeth examined regularly by a dentist at Sharma Dental Center to prevent loss of the tooth. Though there is an option of remineralization, by the time you visit a dentist, the filling becomes important to save your teeth. So here is the role of dental fillings to stop cavities.

Dental Cavities

Cavities, also known as tooth decay or caries, are the permanent damage to the outer surface of the teeth (enamel) that open into holes or cavities. When the bacteria in our mouth are exposed to sugars and carbohydrates, it converts it into acid causing demineralization of the tooth. Factors contributing to cavities are:

When Does Dental Filling Become Necessary?

The first sign of initiation of tooth decay is the appearance of white chalky spots on the enamel of the tooth. This is the stage when the problem can be reversed using fluoride and consulting a dentist.

If the demineralization continues, then the tooth can no longer repair itself and has to be treated by a dentist. Depending on the situation, the dentist decides whether to restore the tooth by dental filling or a root canal.

Types of Dental Filling

There are various types of materials varying in strength and color that are used to fill the dental cavity. Each type of filling has its pros and cons and thus the choice depends on your budget, insurance coverage and aesthetic preferences.

1. Amalgam filling

Amalgam is the strongest, oldest and most common type of filling used to fill dental cavities. It is a mixture of liquid mercury and a powdered alloy including silver copper and tin. This type of filling is also known as “silver filling” due to its silvery appearance. Because of its strength, it is highly used for molar restoration. Besides, it is inexpensive for all other dental fillings.

2. Composite filling

Also known as resin filling, this material is ideal for a moderately chewing tooth. It uses a mixture of tooth-colored plastic and glass to fill the cavity. It costs almost double the silver filling and is suitable for aesthetic purposes.

3. Metal

The metal filling uses gold or silver blend for the tooth restoration. This material is the most durable and meets the aesthetic desires of certain patients. Its strength and endurance make it worth its expenditure.

4. Ceramic

This filling uses tooth-colored porcelain to fill the cavity. It is as durable as gold and lasts for about 15 years.

5. Glass ionomer

Made up of acrylic and a specific type of glass, this filling material is preferred for restoring fluoride levels of the tooth and is placed below the gum line. However, it is more prone to wear and tear and lasts only for about five years. It also prevents the tooth from further decay. You can get the best dental filling service in California at Sharma Dental Center. Dental filling procedure at Sharma Dental Center makes the perfect balance between the prevention and restoration of the dental cavity. This helps you to not only get your teeth back but also prevent any further decay of the tooth.