Tooth decay is a serious issue to your oral health and hygiene if not treated. Although it is quite a common procedure, fillings are important to help restore cavities and restore your perfect smile. This guide will help you identify whether you need a filling for your tooth.
Why do you need a filling?
There are several different reasons you could require a dental filling for your tooth:
- The tooth is severely damaged or decayed. This is a result of poor oral hygiene habits. Poor habits such as brushing and flossing daily and a sugary and acidic diet. This results in enamel erosion and an increase in cavities.
- You’re suffering from tooth trauma. Trauma may be experienced from an accident or injury during physical activity.
- You’re suffering from tooth sensitivity. The sensitivity feeling is common, particularly when you touch it during eating, brushing or when pressure is placed on it.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
The consequences to your oral health are significant enough for you to not ignore any trauma, sensitive or decay feelings you experience in your tooth. The following effects on your tooth may occur if you ignore it:
- The tooth will continue to decay and begin to spread, affecting your neighboured teeth.
- Difficulty in speaking and eating, causing a great deal of pain.
- It may cause greater infections to your mouth such as gingivitis, gum disease and bleeding.
- As your tooth continues to decay, you may require root canal treatment to solve the problem, which is expensive.
Bleeding is a sign of gum disease. Read more here if you suffer from gum disease when brushing and flossing.
The Common Filling Questions
Here are the common questions about dental fillings:
- Does The Filling Procedure Hurt?
When the filling is applied, local anesthesia will be given to ensure that discomfort is kept to a minimum. The pain will only be experienced in the hole of the tooth before treatment begins. You can read this article to get more details about, if dental filling is painful?
- How Long Does A Filling Appointment Last?
Filling treatment typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete. This depends on the severity and size of the cavity.
- What’s The Cost Of A Filling?
A single filling procedure is very affordable. It typically costs in the region of $100 to $200 but depends on the complexity of the filling. Therefore, the filling cost may be higher.
- What Are The Different Filling Types?
There are a number of filling treatments available, depending on the extent of the repair and the state of your oral health. The common filling treatment types are:
- Amalgam Fillings – A strong and stable filling material made combined with silver, copper, tin, and mercury. They’re highly resistant, durable and is recommended for restoration at the back of the mouth.
- Composite Fillings – Made of acrylic resin, this filling is the most popular to restore your natural appearance. They are durable and resistant to chewing pressure. They prone to wear-and-tear and may need regular treatment.
- Gold Inlays & Onlays – Considered one of the best filling materials albeit expensive, it works well with gum tissue and can last a lifetime. Gold fillings are custom made before cemented in place.
Your local dentist will recommend the best filling treatment for your needs, including recommending lifestyle changes to ensure your filling is retained for the long-term.
If you’re in need of a filling, Garran Dental is ready to serve you to. Click here to get in touch and check yourself in.