Fillings

Overview

Fillings are used to repair and restore the surface of damaged tooth. Dental fillings strengthen the tooth and can offer protection against future infections.
With proper care and good oral hygiene, fillings have a lifespan of 5 to 12 years, depending on the type of filling used.

Tooth sensitivity is a common sign of enamel loss or tooth decay. Obviously, there can be a lot of reasons for this pain, and only your dentist can determine the cause precisely. Treatment should be applied as soon as possible in this situation.

When is a filling prescribed?
Fillings are prescribed when:

• The enamel is damaged by decay or wear
• The surface of the tooth must be evened out

The patient’s experience
Your dentist will perform an exam of your teeth, gums and supporting bone structure. If a filling is required, your dentist will:

• Use a local anesthetic on the affected area
• Use a small hand-held instrument to prepare the tooth for the filling
• Cleanse the tooth and remove the debris or bacteria
• Isolate the tooth with a dental dam to keep it clean during the procedure
• Select the filling required
• Apply adhesives and the filling material on the damaged area
• Shape it according to your natural tooth
• Use a special tool to expose the filling and harden the repaired surface