Preparation

The dentist may take dental x-rays of the affected tooth to determine the extent of damage and decide whether fillings will be an effective treatment.

Next, the dentist recommends the best type of filling material depending on the tooth's function, location, extent of damage, and personal preference.

Once you have decided on a filling material, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the gums surrounding the affected tooth and prevent or minimize discomfort during the procedure.

Removal of Decay

The dentist ensures you're comfortable before proceeding with the decay removal process. They will carefully remove the damaged and decayed parts of the tooth using specialized dental tools.

The dentist may use a dental mirror to examine the affected tooth if it's in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. They then remove decayed tissue and debris using a spoon excavator or a dental extractor.

Sometimes, the dentist may use a dental drill to dislodge decayed tissue. They occasionally spray water onto the damaged tooth to cool it while drilling. This helps prevent the tooth from overheating and damaging the surrounding gum tissue.

Filling the Cavity

Before filling the cavity, the dentist probes the tooth to ensure it's free of dead tissue and debris. They may use an acid etching solution to create tiny grooves in the affected tooth so that the filling material fuses securely.

Next, the dentist carefully applies the filling material to the cavity. They apply the filling in layers, shaping each layer before hardening it using a blue curing light. This multilayering process is crucial since each filling layer must fit snugly into the cavity.

After the layering, the dentist shapes and polishes the filling material to prevent it from interfering with your bite and the surrounding teeth. They may use a high-speed dental bur to achieve the desired result, removing excess filling material and ensuring it blends naturally with the surrounding teeth.

Fillings are durable and resilient. However, you must take proper care of the filling after its application to ensure it remains intact. Your dentist may recommend the following dental filling aftercare instructions:

• Take medication as prescribed: Take the anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by your dentist to alleviate soreness and discomfort after the filling procedure.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Don't hesitate to clean your teeth after a filling procedure. However, be gentle when brushing and flossing the affected tooth. Also, you may use mouthwash to clean hard-to-reach areas of the mouth and the treated tooth.
• Watch your diet: It would be best if you avoid eating or drinking immediately after the filling procedure. You can resume eating once the anesthesia wears off, but avoid hard or sticky foods such as nuts and candies, as they can damage or dislodge the filling.
• Attend regular checkups: Make a point of attending your dental checkups. Your dentist will examine the treated tooth and address any complications with the filling.
• Keep in touch with your dentist: Be sure to contact your dentist if you notice swelling, gum tenderness, and tooth sensitivity that doesn't improve after a few days.

With the proper care, dental fillings can last for many years, depending on the filling type and location. For instance, silver amalgam fillings can last anywhere from 12 to 20 years. On the other hand, composite fillings are less resilient and may need regular replacements if the tooth experiences immense chewing force. Composite fillings have advanced over the years and some have clinical longevity that is comparable to amalgam restorations.

Fillings are a safe and non-invasive dental treatment. However, complications can occur during and after the procedure.

Risks of complications include:

• Allergic reactions: Though rare, you might be allergic to certain filling materials. You should contact your dentist immediately if you notice swelling of the gums, hives, or difficulty breathing.
• Anesthetic complications: There is a slight risk of nerve damage and blood vessel injury during the anesthetic injection. However, this is an uncommon complication.
• Infection: An infection may develop in the surrounding tissues, especially if the filling isn't correctly placed. Oral bacteria may infiltrate the tooth and infect the pulp leading to complications.
• Persistent pain and discomfort: While slight pain and discomfort are common, you should consult your dentist if you're experiencing constant pain days after the procedure.
• Tooth damage: In rare cases, the filling may expand and contract, damaging the tooth over time. Moreover, there's a slight risk that the surrounding teeth may be damaged during the filling procedure.

It's important to note that complications rarely occur. Additionally, following the aftercare instructions your dentist recommends drastically reduces the risk of developing complications after the procedure.