The best dentistry is no dentistry, it’s conservative dentistry. There are many reasons why your filling may need to be replaced over time. Most often, it is the result of daily wear and tear. As you chew, your tooth is placed under a great deal of pressure. Over time, it can cause bacteria and tiny food particles to become trapped under the filling. With careful planning, ample time, and with careful working practices; this is consistently achievable.
What is a filling and or restoration?
Dental fillings are most commonly used to prevent further damage to a tooth when decay is present or broken. By removing the bacteria and closing the affected area off, no further tooth decay can occur. Your dentist will assess the area and discuss with you what needs to be replaced and with what – usually a composite restoration, porcelain onlay or porcelain inlay.
Here is an example of an assessment of a tooth that needs multiple fillings restored. Let us walk you through what happens next.
Before treatment situation – highlighted areas of tooth decay/infection were identified with high magnification and digital x-rays.
Next, the teeth were covered with a rubber dam to ensure no contamination of the client’s mouth with debris. Teeth were then marked with red carbon paper to ensure the client’s bite was the same as when the client had started the treatment.
Preparation of the teeth to expose the infection being careful not to damage adjacent teeth.
Infection carefully removed ensuring bite contacts are maintained.
Rebuilding of the two teeth using the four different colours to mimic the surrounding teeth and shapes as the teeth would have been before they had any dentistry. Only then is the final tooth touched to ensure that the exact shape and size is recreated. This allows for easier cleaning and long-term maintenance.
Once the teeth are restored, tints are introduced to mimic the 3D colour of the natural teeth.
The final result as nature intended: sharp, efficient, beautiful teeth which appear to be untouched by the human hand.
How do you know if you need a filling?
It is best to see your dentist regularly as decay can be detected early. The sooner your dentist detects your cavity, the sooner it can be treated, and the better the outcome for your tooth. If the decay is caught early on, the treatment is usually less invasive.
There are some warning signs you may need a restoration:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Ongoing tooth ache
- Sensitivity to sweets and sugary treats
- Pain when biting
- A hole or pit in the tooth
With the appropriate skills, the best restorative materials*, enough time and care these can results can be consistently delivered ensuring longevity of your dentition.
If you suspect you may have a cavity, it is best to check with your dentist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, or if you’re looking to get registered with one of our dentists – you can book online here.
*venus pearl.