Cavities, chipped teeth, or worn enamel not only affect the appearance of your smile and cause sensitivity but also open the door for bacteria to attack, leading to more serious dental diseases. A dental filling is the quickest, most effective, and safest solution to restore the shape and chewing function of your teeth and protect your overall oral health.
At Far East Dental Clinic, we provide advanced, high-tech dental filling services to help you regain a confident smile in just one appointment.
1. What is dental filling?
A dental filling is a dental procedure that restores the structure of a tooth damaged by decay, wear, or other injuries. The purpose of a filling is not only to restore the tooth’s original shape but also to prevent further damage from bacteria, protecting the tooth from more serious problems.
Is getting a filling painful?
This is a common concern for many people. The answer is NO. Thanks to modern technology and effective anesthetics, the filling process is very gentle. You will only feel a slight numbness in the treated area and remain completely comfortable throughout.
When should you get a dental filling immediately?
You should visit a dentist for a consultation if you experience any of the following conditions:
+ Tooth Decay (Cavities): This is the most common reason. Small or large cavities on the tooth’s surface need to be cleaned and filled to prevent the decay from spreading to the pulp (the tooth’s inner nerve).
+ Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Caused by accidents, impacts, or biting on hard objects, resulting in a partial loss of the tooth structure.
+ Worn Tooth Necks (Cervical Abrasion): The base of the tooth near the gumline wears away, creating a V-shaped notch that causes sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
+ Small Gaps Between Teeth: Cosmetic fillings can help close minor gaps between teeth, improving the aesthetics of your smile.
+ Cavity Prevention: Applying sealants to the pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of molars can prevent food and bacteria from getting trapped and causing decay. This is especially effective for children.
2. The standard dental filling procedure at Far East Dental Clinic
Our filling procedure is performed gently, quickly, and in strict compliance with the standards of the Ministry of Health.
Step 1: Examination and Consultation: The dentist will examine your teeth, determine the extent of the damage, and recommend the most suitable filling material.
Step 2: Anesthesia (If Necessary): For large cavities or those close to the pulp, local anesthesia will be administered to ensure you feel no pain or sensitivity during the procedure.
Step 3: Cleaning the Cavity: The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is completely removed, and the area to be filled is thoroughly cleaned.
Step 4: Placing the Filling: The dentist will place the filling material, shaping it for a perfect aesthetic and a correct bite. For Composite materials, a special curing light (Halogen/LED) will be used to harden the filling.
Step 5: Finishing and Polishing: The filling is adjusted and polished to restore the tooth’s natural, glossy appearance.
How to care for your filling for long-lasting results
+ Avoid chewing for the first 2 hours: This allows the filling material to fully set and harden.
+ Limit hard, chewy, or extremely hot/cold foods for the first few days.
+ Avoid dark-colored foods and drinks (coffee, tea, soda) to prevent staining of Composite fillings.
+ Practice proper oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and use dental floss to clean between your teeth.
+ Schedule regular check-ups every 6 months: This allows the dentist to check the durability of your filling and your overall oral health.
3. How long does a dental filling last?
The longevity of a filling depends on several factors:
The type of filling material used (e.g., aesthetic composite fillings vs. traditional amalgam fillings).
+ The location of the filling (molars, which endure more chewing pressure, may have a shorter lifespan for the filling).
+ Your oral hygiene habits (brushing, flossing, regular dental check-ups).
+ Your dietary habits (avoiding biting hard objects, limiting acidic foods).
If you are experiencing problems with cavities, chipped teeth, or sensitivity when eating – don’t hesitate! A dental filling is a quick, safe, and cost-effective solution to help you regain the natural function and beauty of your teeth.Dental Fillings: An
