Are you suffering from dental deformities? Do you have pain due to tooth decay? What if you could restore the deficiency with a dental filling? There are many cosmetic and corrective dental procedures that help restore the face to the beauty of its smile, in addition to restoring the missing and damaged parts of it, so that you can choose what suits your teeth, here is our article through the Dalili Medical website that talks about the types of dental fillings.

**What is a permanent dental filling?**

 

A dental filling is an essential treatment to preserve teeth that have been damaged as a result of decay, cracking, erosion or breakage.

Here are the steps of the dental filling process:

1. The dentist applies a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth to be filled.

2. After that, the doctor removes the damaged part of the tooth using a special scraping tool.

3. The doctor cleans the cavity damaged by bacteria or erosion to prepare the filling space.

4. If the decay is close to the root of the tooth, the doctor will place a material to protect the root.

5. The tooth is filled using specialized materials that vary in type and color.

6. Finally, the doctor polishes the filling after completion.

**Is filling permanent teeth a dangerous procedure?**

 

Filling permanent teeth is not considered a dangerous procedure, but it is necessary to be done by a specialist to ensure the best results. You should also choose a dental center that uses high-quality materials to make fillings to ensure they last for a long time.

It is worth noting that some types of fillings, such as silver fillings, may last an average of about 12 years, while composite fillings that match the color of the teeth last from five to seven years.

**Does a regular filling require anesthesia?**

 

A simple tooth filling can be done without the need for anesthesia, but if there is significant decay or caries in the tooth or molar, it is preferable to use anesthesia to avoid feeling pain. Spray anesthesia is used before giving the needle to relieve pain.

**Can a tooth smell after filling?**

 

Yes, a tooth may smell after filling, and this may be due to gum infections or dental problems before filling. If this happens, you should see a doctor immediately.

**What is a temporary dental filling?**

 

A temporary filling is used as an alternative to a permanent dental filling until the right time comes. The doctor may suggest using a temporary filling in the following cases:

- As an emergency treatment if there is not enough time to place a permanent filling.

- While waiting for the completion of the dental crown.

- During the recovery period between root canal treatment and placing the permanent filling.

**How ​​many dental filling sessions?**

 

The number of dental filling sessions can only be determined after examining the teeth, as the number varies from one person to another depending on the condition of the tooth and the number of damaged teeth. In general, a regular dental filling can be done in one session.

**Can I eat after a dental filling?**

 

You can eat at least two hours after installing the filling, but it is preferable to follow the following tips:

- Avoid solid foods.

- Avoid chewing on the side of the filling.

- Eat easy-to-chew foods such as milk and soups.

- Avoid hot and cold foods, and it is preferable to eat moderate foods.

**What is the difference between a permanent and temporary dental filling?**

 

When you need a filling for your teeth, the most common option is a permanent filling. However, sometimes your dentist may need to place a temporary filling for a certain period of time before they can place a permanent filling. So what are the differences between the two types?

A temporary filling, as the name suggests, is used for a limited period of time before being replaced with a permanent filling. Here are some of the key differences between the two types of fillings:

1. **Durability and hardness**: Temporary fillings are not designed to last as long as permanent fillings. They only serve their purpose for a short period of time, and they do not have the same level of hardness. However, some types of permanent fillings can last for 20 to 40 years if your oral health is well taken care of. Therefore, it is important to keep follow-up appointments with your dentist to replace the temporary filling with a permanent one to maintain the health of your tooth.

2. **Appearance**: Temporary fillings are not designed to look like natural teeth, making it easier for your dentist to identify them and replace them with permanent fillings that are made to match the shape of natural teeth.

3. **Care**: Temporary fillings require special care due to their fragility compared to permanent fillings. Avoid brushing your teeth violently or eating hard foods, and be sure to use dental floss gently.

**Tooth filling steps**

The tooth filling process is done by a dentist in the clinic, and the steps may vary depending on the type of filling. Here are the general steps for tooth filling:

1. Apply an anesthetic gel to the gums in preparation for giving the anesthetic needle. In cases of minor decay, there may be no need for anesthesia.

2. Wait a few minutes for the gel to take effect, then give a local anesthetic by injecting it into the gums in the area of ​​the tooth to be filled.

3. Remove the decay from the tooth using special tools.

4. Use a disinfectant to get rid of any stuck bacteria.

5. Fill the cavity in the tooth with the filling material.

6. Modify the filling to take the exact shape of the tooth, then polish and smooth it to fit the teeth and not scratch the tongue.

In the case of composite fillings, a sealant may be placed before the filling process, and then a specific blue light is shone on the filling to strengthen it.

**What is a permanent dental filling?**

 

A permanent dental filling is a material that the dentist fills into the spaces between the teeth, and this filling can remain inside the tooth for long periods without damage. It is usually used after treating tooth decay or nerve filling to preserve the teeth and restore their basic functions such as chewing food efficiently.

**Number of nerve filling sessions**

 

The number of dental treatment sessions by nerve filling varies based on several factors, but it usually does not exceed two sessions. These factors include:

- The type of tooth, as the teeth may needThe background to a greater number of sessions compared to the front teeth.

- The number of roots and nerve canals within each root.

- The condition of the molar, whether it is a recent injury and the pulp is still alive, or if the injury is old and has caused the pulp to decompose and invade the surrounding tissues.

- The external condition of the molar, is it healthy or does it need additional procedures such as isolating and modifying the surrounding gums before starting the nerve treatment.

**Are cosmetic dental fillings strong?**

 

Modern cosmetic fillings can be considered strong and durable, as stronger materials are used compared to traditional fillings, such as porcelain and zirconium. The process of installing fillings is done using the latest technologies and devices such as laser to increase cohesion and strength, making them completely compatible with the structure and shape of the natural tooth. These materials also have high resistance to erosion and dissolution over time, and withstand high pressure and chewing forces without deformation, and can be restored and repaired in the event of damage.

**Does dental fillings cause pain?**

 

Dental fillings are performed under local anesthesia, which makes the feeling of pain limited, as the person may feel a slight tingling when the anesthesia needle is inserted, and may feel some pressure while removing the decay.

After the filling process is over and the effect of the anesthesia wears off, some people may experience mild discomfort or pain, in which case painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be taken to relieve the pain.

It is important to see a doctor if you feel pain or discomfort when clenching your teeth, or if the pain is persistent, sharp, or throbbing.

**What are dental fillings?**

 

A dental filling is a material that a dentist uses to treat problems such as cavities and cracks resulting from tooth decay. There are a variety of types of dental fillings, allowing patients to choose the appropriate type in cooperation with the doctor. For example, many people prefer white dental fillings for their natural appearance.

**What is the difference between platinum and laser fillings?**

 

Laser fillings can better match the color of the teeth, making them a good aesthetic option. While platinum fillings may be closer to the natural color of teeth than some other materials, they may affect the aesthetic appearance of some.

**Does a regular filling require anesthesia?**

 

A simple filling can be done without anesthesia, but if there is significant decay or caries, it is preferable to use anesthesia to avoid pain. Spray anesthesia is used before giving the needle to relieve the feeling of pain.

**What is a anterior tooth filling?**

 

A anterior tooth filling is a service provided by dental clinics to replace areas of decay or fracture in the anterior teeth, improving their appearance and function. Anterior tooth fillings can be made from different materials determined by the doctor based on the condition and location of the teeth.

**Steps for anterior tooth fillings:**

 

1. Local anesthesia for the affected tooth.

2. Removal of decay.

3. Cleaning the decay area well.

4. Place the filling accurately.

5. Polishing the fillings.

6. Ensure that there are no external protrusions from the laser fillings.

**People who are candidates for front tooth fillings:**

 

If you have dental problems that affect your self-confidence or cause you pain, there is no need to worry if your problem is related to:

- Fractures in the front teeth.

- Closing wide gaps between teeth.

- Treating tooth decay and damage.

- Repairing cracked teeth.

**What is the expected lifespan of a dental filling?**

 

The lifespan of a dental filling varies according to the type, as follows:

- Amalgam filling: from 5 to 25 years.

- Composite fillings: from 5 to 15 years.

- Porcelain or ceramic filling: about 15 years.

- Glass filling: about 5 years.

- Gold filling: from 15 to 20 years.

The lifespan of a dental filling is affected by several factors, such as:

- The extent of interest in dental hygiene.

- Eating habits.

- Teeth grinding (pressing teeth during the day or sleep).

- Teeth are exposed to shocks.

**What are the causes of dental fillings falling out?**

 

Learn about the most prominent causes that lead to dental fillings falling out:

- **Bacterial accumulation**: The accumulation of bacteria around the filling area can lead to them falling out easily, and this often happens as a result of not brushing the teeth well.

- **Tooth pressure**: Excessive pressure on the teeth, whether by grinding or rubbing them hard, increases the likelihood of the filling falling out. Repeated pressure while chewing may also lead to them breaking or falling out.

- **Chewing ice**: Drinking iced drinks and chewing ice can contribute to dental fillings falling out quickly.

- **Inappropriate preparation**: Sometimes, improper preparation of the filling by the dentist can increase the likelihood of it falling out.

- **Choosing a weak material**: Using weak materials for dental fillings may lead to their damage or discoloration when eating or brushing the teeth, so it is important to choose a good dentist and use high-quality materials.

**How ​​long do dental fillings last?**

 

Gold dental fillings can last up to 15 years or more, as they withstand the force of chewing, but they are expensive and do not match the color of the teeth. Silver dental fillings last 10 to 15 years, are less expensive, but they may expand and contract and require the removal of a large part of the decayed tooth.

**Does decay return after dental fillings?**

 

Dental fillings can wear down due to pressure, causing the tooth to crack, and decay may return if the teeth are not cleaned well. It is often not discovered until after a visit to the dentist.

**Can I use a toothbrush if a dental filling falls out?**

 

If the filling falls out, it should be preserved and the dentist should be visited immediately. It is important to maintain dental hygiene and avoid chewing food in the area without a filling, and to use a brush, toothpaste and lukewarm water gently.

**How ​​to act when a dental filling falls out?**

 

When a dental filling falls out, steps should be takenQuick tips to maintain dental health:

- Keep the filling (such as ceramic fillings) as you may be able to temporarily reposition it.

- Contact your dentist immediately to schedule a repositioning or replacement of the filling.

- If you feel pain, you can take painkillers recommended by your dentist, and use cold compresses on the painful area.

**What is a direct and indirect filling?**

 

A direct filling is done in one session, where the decay is removed, the tooth is cleaned, and then the filling is placed directly, which is soft and hardens after placement. As for an indirect filling, it requires removing the decay and taking measurements of the tooth in the first session, then the filling is designed in the laboratory to fit the shape of the cavity precisely, and a temporary filling is placed until the next visit to place the permanent filling.

An indirect filling is used in cases of deep decay in which the remaining tooth structure cannot support the filling, but not to the extent that requires a crown.

**What is a temporary dental filling?**

 

Temporary fillings are fillings that are placed on the tooth temporarily, and are made of soft materials that are easy to remove, such as zinc oxide, eugenol, zinc phosphate, and glass ionomer. They are available in multiple colors such as white, pink, blue, and gray, and are used in the following cases:

- Emergency cases such as toothache resulting from decay until it is treated.

- Covering the tooth after removing the decay until the permanent filling is made, as well as to test the sensitivity of the nerve.

- Temporarily filling the tooth in root canal treatment until the permanent filling is placed.

- Covering the tooth until the crown or crown is made.

- Allowing the tooth sensitivity to disappear before placing the permanent filling in case of irritation of the tooth pulp after removing the decay.

What happens to the teeth when a dental filling falls out?

 

There are many risks that your teeth may face if a dental filling falls out, the most prominent of which are:

- Leaving the tooth filling hole empty exposes the remaining part of the tooth to the risk of decay.

- Exposure of nerve tissue and root structure to bacteria in the mouth, through saliva.

- Feeling severe pain, as the dentin layer is very sensitive, and being exposed to heat factors and oral conditions may cause a lot of discomfort.

Leaving the dental filling hole untreated may directly affect the integrity of the nerve, which may require nerve treatment in addition to treating the damaged tooth.

The main benefit of dental fillings is to stop the development of caries by repairing damaged teeth and restoring their function and natural appearance. Fillings work to:

- Prevent the spread of caries, as they form a barrier that prevents harmful bacteria from entering the sensitive tooth tissues.

- Repair small areas damaged by caries.

- Preserve the tooth structure from breaking and loss.

On the other hand, leaving dental cavities without fillings and neglecting to get new fillings exposes your teeth to many risks and damages, including:

- Severe pain due to the exposure of the dentin layer, which is known for its high sensitivity to heat.

- Cracks and fractures of parts of the remaining tooth, which may make treatment more complicated than removing the decay and refilling the tooth.

- The decay spreads to the adjacent teeth, and sometimes to the roots and nerve, which may lead to abscesses in the jawbone.

- Changes in the occlusion of the teeth, which leads to their tilt and the resulting problems in occlusion.

The hollow shape of the tooth allows food debris and bacteria to accumulate more, which leads to irritation and inflammation of the gums.

Can the doctor repair dental fillings?

 

Dental fillings are initially of a soft nature before being placed inside the tooth cavity that the dentist has shaped. Permanent fillings are designed to become harder shortly after being placed, either through the interaction of the materials or by using a special light to harden the cosmetic fillings.

The doctor can modify dental fillings to fit the occlusion of the teeth in the jaws after they are completed. Over time, it becomes difficult to modify or repair fillings successfully without exposing them to damage, so it is preferable to replace them completely to preserve the integrity of the tooth and nerve.

### Can decay return after dental fillings?

 

If you neglect your oral and dental hygiene, your teeth and fillings will be exposed to the accumulation of food debris and bacteria, which may lead over time to tooth decay that creeps under the filling, leading to its fall.

### When does tooth decay reach the nerve?

 

Tooth decay goes through several stages, starting with simple decay in the enamel layer of the tooth, which the doctor can remove by performing small fillings. As the decay progresses, the decay may deepen to the dentin layer, sometimes causing pain when eating.

The most dangerous stage is when the caries infection reaches the root canal, causing symptoms of nerve inflammation and severe pain. If this is neglected, the nerve tissue can be damaged, leading to complete tooth decay, a condition considered one of the deepest degrees of decay, as tooth treatment becomes difficult and may lead to the tooth and filling falling out.

### The difference between tooth decay and nerve pain

 

In the case of normal decay that does not exceed the tooth enamel, the person does not feel any pain, and any future pain can be avoided by treating the decay quickly, even if it is small.

However, if the decay reaches the dentin layer, the person may feel pain when eating hot or cold foods and drinks, and the pain can be relieved with painkillers.

In the case of nerve inflammation, the pain is continuous and throbbing, and may not go away except by taking strong painkillers.

### The difference between the types of cosmetic fillings and dental implants

Although cosmetic fillings and dental implants share the function of restoring the shape of the teeth and treating damaged ones, there is a slight difference between them. Cosmetic fillings are used in the case of simple gaps or cavities, while dental implants are used for broken teeth or teeth with deep cavities and severe decay.

### The difference between cosmetic fillings and veneers

 

When searchingFor solutions to improve the appearance of damaged teeth, cosmetic fillings and veneers are popular options. These procedures help restore the shape, texture and color of teeth.

**Cosmetic fillings**: These are used to correct minor problems such as gaps or minor cavities. They are made of materials such as composite resin or durable glass, and are characterized by their compatibility with the color of the teeth, giving a natural appearance. The process of applying the filling requires removing a small portion of the damaged tooth.

**Veneers**: A thin facade made of ceramic or composite resin, placed on the front surface of the teeth to cover defects such as cavities or stains. Applying the veneer requires removing a thin layer of enamel to achieve cohesion.

### Does replacing dental fillings hurt?

 

It is necessary to visit the dentist if you notice any change in the shape or color of the fillings or the teeth underneath them, to get the appropriate treatment.

There may be mild side effects, similar to those that occur when getting permanent dental fillings for the first time, and are not a cause for concern.

**Some side effects of replacing dental fillings include**:

- Numbness in the area of ​​the treated tooth due to the effect of the anesthetic.

- Slight discomfort due to the change in the filling that the tongue and adjacent teeth are accustomed to.

- Temporary sensitivity in the filled teeth, especially when eating cold or hot foods and drinks.

These effects are considered normal and usually disappear over time, but if more severe symptoms appear, a doctor should be consulted for reassurance.

**People eligible for installing types of cosmetic dental fillings**

 

After Dr. "Nora Radwan" conducted a comprehensive diagnosis of many cases, she explained the categories eligible for installing different types of cosmetic dental fillings, which are:

- Individuals who suffer from gaps between the teeth.

- People who have broken teeth.

- Individuals who suffer from tooth discoloration.

- People with tooth decay.

**Types of dental fillings**

**Silver fillings**

Silver dental fillings, also known as amalgam, are one of the oldest and most famous types of fillings used. These fillings are made up of a mixture of silver with other metals such as tin, copper and mercury, and are considered a safe and effective option for treating tooth decay due to their durability and durability.

**Advantages of silver fillings:**

 

- Durable and pressure-resistant, lasting longer than white fillings, with a lifespan of up to 25 years.

- Strong and resistant to chewing.

- Less expensive than white fillings.

**Disadvantages of silver fillings:**

 

- Affect the aesthetic appearance due to their dark color, which makes their use often limited to the back molars.

- Requires a larger cavity in the tooth compared to other types of fillings.

- May cause cracks in the tooth due to expansion and contraction due to heat and cold.

- May lead to a change in the color of the tooth to gray in some cases.

- May cause allergic reactions in some people to mercury.

**Cases in which it is preferable to avoid using silver fillings:**

- Children under 6 years of age.

- Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant, and breastfeeding women.

- People with impaired kidney function.

- Individuals with neurological diseases.

- People who are allergic to mercury.

**Composite fillings (white fillings)**

 

Composite fillings, or composite dental fillings, are known to be the most commonly used due to their white appearance that mimics the color of natural teeth. They are made of resin and ceramic, and are soft, as blue light is shone on them to strengthen them.

**Advantages of white fillings:**

 

- An aesthetic appearance similar to the color of natural teeth, making them ideal for front teeth.

- Versatile, as they can be used to repair broken teeth.

- No need for a large cavity in the tooth.

**Disadvantages of white fillings:**

- Less strong compared to silver fillings.

- Their lifespan ranges from 5 to 15 years.

- They may require a longer application time, and may require more than one session.

- Higher cost compared to silver fillings.

- Possibility of cracks in the teeth.

**Porcelain fillings**

Porcelain fillings, or ceramic, are a type of cosmetic filling that resembles the color of teeth.

**Advantages of porcelain fillings:**

- Strong and withstand chewing.

- More resistant to corrosion than composite fillings.

- Their color does not change over time.

**Disadvantages of porcelain fillings:**

- Their cost is high compared to other types of fillings, as they are close to the cost of gold fillings.

**Glass fillings**

Glass fillings are made from a group of compounds such as silica, ammonia, and calcium, and fluoride is often added to protect teeth from decay.

**Uses of glass fillings:**

- Dental fillings below the gum line.

- Fillings for young children.

- Temporary dental fillings.

- A base for other types of fillings in cases of deep decay.

**Advantages of glass fillings:**

- They somewhat resemble the color of natural teeth.

Fluoride release helps protect teeth from decay. However, there are some disadvantages to glass fillings, including:

- Their weakness and ease of erosion and breakage compared to composite fillings, which makes their use limited in the back teeth (molars) and they are often used as temporary fillings.

- They do not match the color of the teeth perfectly.

- Their short lifespan, which may not exceed 5 years.

- Their high cost compared to their short lifespan.

**Gold Filling**

Gold dental fillings are considered one of the strongest types of fillings, but they are no longer common at the present time. These fillings are made of gold with the addition of copper and other metals.

Gold dental fillings are characterized by the following:

- Their high strength, durability and endurance.

- Their resistance to corrosion.

- Their long lifespan, which may reach 20 years.

However, they have someDisadvantages:

- Its high cost.

- The need for more than one visit to the doctor to complete the filling process.

- It cannot be used with silver fillings due to the risk of interaction and galvanic shock.

- Its color is different from the natural color of the teeth, although some may prefer it over silver fillings.

**Indications for dental fillings**

Some cases require dental fillings to preserve the tooth, restore its shape, and facilitate the chewing process, including:

- **Tooth decay**: Decay is the most common cause, and it can be treated in its early stages without the need for a filling, but when cavities occur in the enamel layer, a filling must be performed.

- **Tooth cracking or erosion**: Some cases may require a filling to strengthen the tooth and prevent the worsening of erosion resulting from exposure to acids or chewing.

- **Tooth fracture**: Broken teeth require a filling or crown to protect them from decay and restore their function and natural appearance.

- **Replacing a previous filling**: If the filling falls out or wears out, it must be replaced with a new one to prevent tooth decay.

**Amalgam (Platinum) Filling**

Also known as silver filling, it is one of the most commonly used fillings due to its many advantages:

- It can withstand the force of chewing and grinding.

- It has a long lifespan, lasting for more than 10 to 15 years.

- Its cost is moderate and suitable for everyone.

However, it responds greatly to thermal changes, which may lead to cracks in the teeth, in addition to its color differing from the color of natural teeth.

**Light filling (laser filling)**

It is considered one of the most famous and most requested types among cosmetic fillings, and is scientifically known as composite filling. It is available in several shades of white to perfectly match natural teeth, and hardens when exposed to high-frequency light, which made it metaphorically called "laser filling", although it is not related to laser rays.

**Dental Nerve Filling Steps**

The process of installing cosmetic fillings requires precision and experience to obtain satisfactory results, and includes the following steps:

1. Anesthetizing the area to be filled.

2. Cleaning the teeth and removing decay and bacteria.

3. Filling the tooth cavity with a filling that matches the natural tooth color.

4. Performing a final cleaning of the teeth to give them the desired natural appearance.

Some people may be concerned about removing the nerve due to their fears of its impact on the function and health of the tooth. However, removing the nerve does not significantly affect the vital function of the tooth, as its primary function is to sense heat and cold. The nerve is removed if it is damaged, as this damage can lead to deterioration of the condition and the spread of bacteria in the pulp cavity.

In addition, leaving the tooth untreated may lead to swelling in the surrounding area, which may spread to other areas of the face, neck or head, or loss of bone around the tip of the tooth root, or even death of the pulp or complete loss of the tooth. Therefore, the stage of performing a root canal filling is considered essential.