Fillings

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What are fillings?

Dental fillings are materials used by dentists to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or cavities. When a tooth has a hole due to decay, the decayed part is removed, and the cavity is filled with a material to restore its shape and function. Fillings help prevent further decay, improve the tooth’s strength, and keep it functional for chewing and speaking.

What is involved in a filling procedure in Singapore?

The process of getting a dental filling is typically straightforward and usually only requires one visit to the dentist. Here’s what you can generally expect:

Examination and X-rays

First, the dentist will examine your tooth and may take an X-ray to determine the extent of the decay. This helps the dentist assess how deep the cavity is and decide the best treatment option.

Numbing the Area

Before starting the procedure, the dentist will usually numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic (like a gel or injection) to make sure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Removing Decay & Cleaning the Cavity

Once the area is numb, the dentist will use a drill to remove the decayed part of the tooth. The goal is to remove all the decayed material so that the filling can be placed on clean and healthy tooth surfaces. After the decay is removed, the dentist will clean the cavity to ensure it's free of bacteria and debris.

Placing the Filling

Sometimes a small matrix band or a separator is placed in between teeth to ensure the filling has an ideal shape. Next, the filling material is placed into the cavity. If you're getting a composite resin filling, the dentist will layer the material in and harden it using a special light.

Shaping and Polishing

Once the filling is in place, the dentist will shape it to match the contours of your natural tooth. This ensures that the filling doesn’t interfere with your bite. Afterward, the filling is polished to smooth out any rough edges and to make it look as natural as possible.

Final Check

Finally, the dentist will check your bite to make sure everything fits properly and that the filling feels comfortable. If necessary, they may adjust it slightly.

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The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the cavity. Afterward, you might feel a little sensitivity, but that should subside within a few days. If you get a local anesthetic, the numbness will wear off after a few hours.

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Who needs fillings?

People with Cavities:
If you have a cavity, the decayed part of the tooth needs to be removed and filled to prevent further damage. Cavities can form in any tooth, but they’re most common in the back teeth (molars) because of their grooves and how they’re used for chewing, as well as the approximal surfaces between teeth.
Those with poor oral hygiene habits, a diet high in sugary or acidic foods, dry mouth, or certain medical conditions (like diabetes) are at higher risk of developing cavities and may need fillings more often.
People with deep grooves and pits
Deep grooves and pits are difficult to keep clean and at high risks of developing into cavities in the future.The deep pit and fissures will be cleaned and a preventive filling will be placed to seal these areas, making the surface smooth and more self-cleansable. These preventive fillings are minimally invasive and painless to perform.
Those with Broken Teeth:
If a tooth is chipped due to an injury or biting something hard, a filling might be needed to restore its shape and prevent infection or further damage.
People with Older Fillings:
Sometimes, old fillings wear out or become loose. In these cases, they may need to be replaced with new fillings to maintain the tooth’s integrity and prevent decay from setting in around the old filling

If you’re noticing pain, sensitivity, or visible holes in your teeth, it’s important to visit a dentist to determine if fillings are necessary. Regular dental checkups help catch cavities early, so they can be treated before more serious damage occurs.

Benefits of having fillings in Singapore

Prevents Further Tooth Decay

The primary benefit of a dental filling is that it stops the decay process. When a cavity is filled, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the filling seals the cavity, preventing bacteria from entering and causing further damage or infection.. Keeping bacteria out helps avoid painful and more serious conditions that could lead to tooth loss or the need for root canal therapy.

Restores Tooth Function

Fillings restore the shape and functionality of a damaged tooth, allowing you to chew, bite, and speak normally again. A filled tooth is stronger and can handle the pressure of biting, which may have been compromised before the filling.

Preserves Natural Teeth

By treating cavities early with fillings, you can often avoid more invasive procedures, such as root canals or tooth extractions. Preserving your natural teeth is important for your overall oral health and helps prevent additional complications that could arise from tooth loss.

Improves Appearance

Fillings, particularly tooth-colored ones like composite resin, blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. This means they can improve the appearance of a cavity, especially in visible areas (like front teeth). It can boost your confidence, knowing that your smile looks good and your teeth are healthy. This can be particularly important if you’ve had visible cavities or broken teeth that have impacted your self-esteem.

Reduces Sensitivity

If you have a cavity, you might experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. A filling helps seal the tooth and can reduce this sensitivity by covering the exposed areas of the tooth and preventing triggers from reaching the nerve.

Cost-Effective Treatment

Fillings are generally one of the more affordable dental treatments, especially when compared to more complex procedures like crowns, root canals, or dental implants. Early intervention with fillings can save you money in the long run by avoiding the need for more extensive treatments.

Quick and Convenient

Dental filling procedures are typically quick, often completed in just one visit. They don’t require significant downtime or recovery, and most people can resume normal activities almost immediately after treatment.

Quick and Convenient

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Types of fillings available in Singapore

There are different types of filling materials, including:

Composite resin (tooth-colored fillings): A more aesthetic option that blends with the natural color of the teeth. It's commonly used for fillings in visible areas, like the front teeth.
Amalgam (silver fillings): A durable, cost-effective option made from a mixture of metals like silver, mercury, and tin. It's often used for fillings in the back teeth.However due to the appearance and environmental concerns, this material is phasing out in modern dentistry.
Gold fillings: These are strong and durable but are more expensive and less commonly used due to their appearance.
Porcelain and zirconia fillings (inlays or onlays): These are custom-made to fit the cavity and are more durable and aesthetic, but also more expensive.

How do I take care of my fillings?

Taking care of your fillings is important to ensure their longevity and to maintain your overall oral health. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your fillings:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and food particles. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your fillings.
Floss Daily: Floss between your teeth every day to remove debris and plaque from areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. Be gentle when flossing around your fillings, especially if they are near the gumline.
Use Fluoridated toothpaste and Mouthwash

2. Avoid Hard Foods

Hard Foods: If you have fillings, especially large size composite fillings, avoid chewing on very hard foods like ice, hard candies, or nuts. These can damage or crack your fillings.

3. Be Cautious with Hot and Cold Foods

If you have sensitive fillings (like composite resin or porcelain), you might experience some sensitivity to very hot or cold foods and drinks. Try to avoid extreme temperature changes to reduce discomfort and prevent damaging the filling.

4. Avoid Teeth Grinding

Bruxism (teeth grinding) can wear down your fillings over time and cause cracks or chips. If you grind your teeth, especially at night, talk to your dentist about a custom-made mouthguard to protect your fillings and your natural teeth.
If you clench or grind your teeth, especially at night, using a night guard can protect both your fillings and your natural teeth. This is especially important for people with porcelain or composite fillings that are more prone to chipping under pressure.

5. Regular Dental Checkups

Visit your dentist regularly (usually every 6 months) for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will check your fillings to make sure they are intact and monitor for any potential issues like wear, cracks, or leaks that could let bacteria in.

6. Don’t Ignore Pain or Sensitivity

If you feel pain, discomfort, or sensitivity in a tooth with a filling, especially when chewing or when exposed to hot or cold temperatures, it could be a sign that the filling is damaged or that the tooth beneath it is decaying. See your dentist to have it checked and treated promptly.

7. Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods

Foods and drinks that are high in acid or sugar (like sodas, citrus, and candies) can contribute to the breakdown of your fillings and increase the risk of further tooth decay. Try to limit these and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.

By following these care guidelines, you can help your fillings last longer and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

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