Cavities can be really annoying. If you have not treated them from the beginning then they can wreak havoc and affect your oral well-being. It can get really difficult to properly chew or eat and can be really painful.
So it is better to go to the dentist and treat it from the start before the issue aggravates. You need not be scared of this procedure as it is very simple and not that painful or discomforting. So let us take a deep dive into this practice.
Understanding Cavity Filling
Cavity filling is an extremely common dental procedure used to prevent the further decay of the teeth. The procedure involves removing the decayed part of the teeth, cleaning the areas and filling up the rest of the space with the material to prevent the exacerbating situation of the teeth and restoring its health.
You may have to get a filling if you have cavities or dental caries. The bacteria in your mouth produce acids that may erode your teeth’s enamel and result in decay. Even though cavities are experienced by over 90% of the population children and teenagers are prone to the situation due to their higher sugar consumption and improper oral hygiene practices. Those who do not maintain basic oral hygiene are at higher risk for this issue.
The Duration Of Cavity Filling Procedures
The time taken to fill cavities usually varies from 20 minutes to around an hour depending on many factors. If your cavities are a bit large in size and in a location that is a bit hard to reach then it may take more time than usual.
Plus having numerous cavities will also take up more time. The type of filling material you opt for can also be a factor. If you are going for the composite resin fillings then it can be completed within one visit. Choosing gold or porcelain inlays/onlays may take more than one visit to complete the job.
Understanding The Process
The procedure starts by administering a local anesthetic. Either a topical anesthetic cream is used to numb the area or an injection is used to fully numb the tooth and surrounding areas. The decayed portion of the teeth is removed using dental drills or a laser.
The dentist then proceeds to clean the cavity and shape the area preparing the affected area for the filling. After the filling is done it is contoured to match the structure of your teeth. The surface is polished to smoothen for comfort and to even the bite.
Different Types Of Fillings
Many different types of fillings are available. Each has its own unique characteristics.
- Composite fillings
They are made from resin material and are tooth colored. Since they match with the color of the teeth they are aesthetically pleasing. And it is suitable for more visible places in your mouth. These fillings generally last for around 5 to 10 years.
- Amalgam fillings
This filling is a mixture of metals like silver, copper, and mercury. It is silver-colored and extremely durable in the long run. It is also cost-effective and used in places of larger cavity filling. These amalgam fillings may last for 10 to 15 years.
- Gold filling
These fillings are primarily made of gold often mixed with other metals. It is gold in color and extremely durable. It is an expensive option. Gold fillings last up to 30 years.
- Porcelain filling
Porcelains are made with high-quality ceramic material. It can be curated to match the color of your teeth. It is strong as well but not as durable as gold. The cost is similar to composite filling. Porcelain fillings typically last around 10 to 15 years.
- Glass Ionomer filling
Glass Ionomer filling comprises acrylic and glass powder. It is tooth-colored but the finishing might not be as good as composite or porcelain. This option might not be that durable and is often used in areas that are not complicated. These fillings last around 5 years.
Aftercare Of A Cavity-filling
If you have undergone cavity-filling procedures then it is important to follow proper aftercare protocols to ensure longevity. And hygiene is of utmost importance for that. Brush your teeth and floss regularly to keep the filling areas clean and prevent further plaque buildup.
Do not eat any hot, sticky, or crunchy foods soon after the filling. Choose cold and soft foods after your procedure. Also, notice your bite. Make sure that it is even and you are comfortable with it. Avoid smoking and drinking during the healing period to avoid the risks of infection.
Conclusion
Filling a cavity is not a complicated procedure. It is pretty safe and easy to handle. You can discuss with your doctor about the kind of filling that would be suitable for you. Make sure that you are maintaining proper oral hygiene and adhering to proper aftercare instructions for the longevity of the filling.
FAQs
It takes around 20 minutes to one hour to set a filling.
That depends on the kind of fillings that you get. Composite fillings usually last for 5 to 10 years whereas amalgam fillings last for 10 to 15 years.
That can depend on various factors. Generally, the time considered is twenty minutes to one hour.
No, it is not usually a painful procedure because a local anesthetic is administered.
If it is a simple filling it may take 20 to 30 minutes each for one. If the cavities are deep or in complex locations then the procedure may take longer than expected.
