Dental Fillings In matunga

What are Dental Fillings? – Dental Fillings in Matunga

Dental fillings are used to fill the areas damaged by tooth decay. Tooth decay is a common cause of tooth damage, and the extent of decay decides the eligibility for dental fillings. Our teeth comprise three layers, and the innermost layer is called pulp. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels of teeth. When the decay has not reached the pulp and is confined to the first two layers of teeth, it can be restored with dental fillings. Dental fillings are also used to repair and restore such worn-down teeth. 

Types of dental fillings – Dental Fillings in Matunga

• Metal fillings like gold

• Silver amalgam fillings
• Tooth-coloured composite fillings

Various factors, like the extent of decay and the location, determine the choice of filling. Before planning the treatment, we at Dentalrica Orocare will carefully examine the case to determine the exact status of the tooth decay. 

Metal fillings

The most common metal fillings are gold fillings. They were the preferred choice of fillings in the earlier days.

Silver amalgam 

Silver and mercury alloy fillings were used to restore large decayed portions. It requires extensive preparation of the teeth to provide enough support for the restoration. 

Tooth-coloured composite

The newest material available for dental filling is the tooth-colored composite. It is the most preferred dental filling due to its superior aesthetics and durability. 

How long do the fillings last?

Usually, dental fillings are designed to last several years and the factors that determine the longevity of a dental filling are:

• The extent of the decay
• The size and site of the cavity
• The tooth involved
• Oral hygiene status
• Dental habits like teeth grinding or bruxism
• Presence or absence of decay around the filling

Does my diet affect the longevity of fillings? – Dental Fillings in Matunga

• Yes, diet plays an essential role in determining the longevity of dental fillings. Eating high sugar makes it easier for the biofilm to grow and increases the risk of tooth decay underneath the filling. 
• Eating hard food objects can damage the fillings due to extra biting force
• Eating or drinking dark-coloured food items can stain teeth and tooth-coloured dental fillings making them look unaesthetic

Aftercare of dental fillings – Dental Fillings in Matunga

• Regular follow-ups are scheduled by our team at Dentalrica Orocare to track the progress of dental fillings. 
• It is essential to brush and floss your teeth to maintain optimum hygiene
• Refrain from parafunctional habits like teeth grinding, nail-biting, pencil chewing, or using the teeth as tools to open packages and bottles

Myths about fillings – Dental Fillings in Matunga

There are some myths about dental fillings like:

Dental fillings are painful

The fact about dental fillings is that the whole process is painless and hassle-free. Local anaesthesia is not used to get the dental fillings done. However, it may sometimes be administered if the tooth feels sensitive to caries removal.

There is no need for filling if there is no pain

Most dental cavities begin as small black spots and do not cause pain in the initial stages. There is a common myth that if there is no pain in the tooth, we can wait, and there is no need for treatment. However, dental fillings work well in stopping the progression of the decay if done timely.

Fillings need to be replaced frequently

 If taken care of properly, the dental fillings can last a lifetime. However, if there is a fractured dental filling, it needs to be replaced immediately to avoid further damage to the tooth.

Fillings look fake and unnatural

With the advancement of technology and modern materials like tooth-coloured resin composite, they match the tooth colour exactly.