Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems that results from poor oral hygiene and sugar rich diet. The primary treatment for tooth decay is a filling. In more advanced cases, a root canal treatment may be needed before having a filling.
Today the two most common material for dental fillings are composite (white) or amalgam (metal). Here are some important you should know about dental fillings.
Allergic Reactions to Certain Fillings Amalgam (metal) fillings can contain traces of mercury, chromium, beryllium, or nickel. In some, these components can cause allergic reactions. However, keep in mind that the vast majority of people never experience these side effects. Composite fillings are made of resin, and to date have not been linked to any allergies. If you have experienced allergies to silver fillings than composite is likely a better choice for you.
Fillings are not as strong as Your Natural Teeth A dental filling material is softer and not as strong as your natural tooth enamel. Fillings cannot withstand over time the same same forces of chewing and biting as the natural enamel. If you like to chew on hard things such as ice, nuts, granola or hard candy we recommend avoiding them on your fillings.
Tooth Discoloration with Amalgam Fillings With time a silver can leach into the dentin of the tooth and the enamel may appear darker or grayer than the adjacent teeth. If esthetics is a concern for you, than composite fillings may be a better choice in some cases.
Dental filling can cause temporary sensitivity
Patients often forget that a filling is a small dental surgery on your tooth. Depending on the size and depth of the procedure, it is common to experience some post operative sensitivity which resolves with time on its own. With composite fillings, as the white resin hardens, there is polymerization shrinkage that occurs. It is therefore very common to experience some sensitivity to hot, cold or on chewing, in the coming days after the filling has been placed. It will most likely dissipate over time and you do not need to worry.
Filling color blends with your normal teeth Composite fillings are white, and come in various shades, which allows your dentist to select the correct color and blend the filling to your natural enamel color. So if you were worried about the color, don't be. Your smile will look as natural as when you came in!
So there you have it – the top 5 things to keep in mind about dental fillings. See your dentist to learn what dental filling options they have to offer, and what solution would be best for you.
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