One of the most common dental procedures is having a cavity filled. A cavity is a permanently damaged area of the tooth where it has decayed and formed an opening. Having a cavity filled is a relatively quick process that involves your dentist drilling the cavity and filling in the open space with a hard material.
Preventive, basic, and some major dental services covered under CDCP
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Generally, a cavity-filling appointment takes about an hour total, which will include going over the procedure, taking any X-rays if necessary, and filling the tooth. First, your dentist will administer a freezing agent to numb your tooth, gums, and the surrounding area. Once the area is fully numbed, your dentist will drill into the tooth, removing the cavity, and replace it with a filling. Once your filling is done, your mouth will remain numb for a few hours after the appointment, and when the freezing wears off you may have some slight discomfort, but this should clear up quickly.
Composite fillings are made up of glass or quartz filler and can be matched to the colour of your teeth. These fillings are less durable than amalgam but more durable than ceramic, making them a good choice for teeth responsible for moderate chewing.
Glass ionomer fillings chemically bond to a tooth, forming a tight seal that protects the internal tooth. These fillings can also prevent future cavities forming by releasing fluoride. However, glass ionomer fillings are not particularly strong and are only recommended for non-biting parts of teeth or baby teeth. In addition, they can also be used as temporary fillings.
Amalgam fillings are made of a combination of metallic elements. They are commonly used in the back of the mouth where they aren’t visible and extra strength is needed for chewing. We do not do amalgam fillings at our clinic, though we do monitor them for marginal leakage, decay, chipping and fractures.
Dentists in Delta typically offer several options, including tooth-colored composite fillings, silver amalgam, ceramic, and sometimes gold fillings. The best choice depends on the location of the cavity, durability needs, and your personal preferences.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting your Delta dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings are the best ways to reduce the risk of cavities and fillings.
