A preventive restorative procedure in which decayed tissue is removed and the tooth is filled with an appropriate material (composite/amalgam) to restore form and function.
Indication
- Detection of caries (carious lesion) on the tooth surface
- Old filling that has fractured, leaks, or shows secondary caries around its margins
- Limited enamel-dentin loss after trauma
- Sensitivity due to tooth wear or cracks
- Cervical (gum-line) erosion and abrasion defects
Preparation
- Dentist examination, with periapical/bitewing radiographs to assess caries depth when needed
- Review of patient medications and allergies
- Joint decision with the dentist on filling material (composite for esthetics, amalgam when durability is the priority)
- Pre-procedure oral hygiene optimization
How it's performed
- Local anesthesia is applied when needed (superficial caries may not require anesthesia)
- Decayed tooth tissue is removed with special burs and the cavity is shaped
- For composite fillings, etching and bonding agent are applied to prepare the tooth surface
- The material is placed in the cavity; composite is cured in layers with a special light, while amalgam is mechanically condensed
- Occlusion is checked, excess material is trimmed, and the surface is polished
Post-procedure
- Avoid hot beverages and biting until the anesthesia wears off (about 2-3 hours)
- For amalgam fillings, limit hard foods for the first 24 hours; composite fillings can be used immediately
- Brief hot/cold sensitivity may occur after the filling and is normal
- Daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups every 6 months
- Consult the dentist if symptoms (prolonged pain, fracture, marginal gap) develop
Risks
- Temporary hot/cold sensitivity or chewing tenderness
- Risk of needing root canal treatment in deep caries due to proximity to the pulp
- Filling may wear, fracture, or develop caries at the margins (secondary caries) over time
- Rare allergic reactions to filling materials
- Metallic taste or temporary discoloration with amalgam fillings
FAQ
Which is better, composite or amalgam filling?
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and preferred for esthetic areas; amalgam offers durability advantages in posterior areas with high chewing forces. The choice is made based on the location and size of the caries and dentist evaluation.
Will I feel pain during the filling?
Anesthesia may not be required for superficial caries. For deep caries, local anesthesia is applied and the procedure is generally completed painlessly.
How long does a filling last?
Depending on the material, filling size, and oral care, composite fillings last on average 5-10 years and amalgam fillings can last longer; however, individual variation is significant.
When can I eat after a filling?
Composite fillings cure instantly with light and can be used right after the procedure; with amalgam fillings, hard foods should be avoided for the first 24 hours.
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