Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that many people experience, but they are also preventable and treatable. When you get a cavity, it means that a small part of your tooth has decayed due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. If left untreated, a cavity can get bigger and cause pain or even lead to tooth loss. Dental fillings are one of the most common ways to treat cavities and help restore your tooth’s function. Here’s what you need to know about cavities and dental fillings.
What Are Cavities?
A cavity is a small hole that forms in your tooth when the enamel, the hard outer layer of your tooth, starts to break down. This happens when acids from plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—eat away at the enamel. Plaque builds up from food particles, especially sugary and starchy foods. Over time, if you don’t remove plaque by brushing and flossing, it can lead to tooth decay.
At first, cavities might not cause any pain, but if they aren’t treated, they can get deeper into the tooth and affect the nerves, leading to pain and infection. It’s important to catch cavities early to prevent more serious problems.
How Are Cavities Treated?
The most common way to treat a cavity is with a dental filling. A filling restores the shape and function of the tooth by filling in the hole created by the cavity. Fillings are made from different materials, including silver, gold, and tooth-colored composite resins. The material used depends on the location and size of the cavity, as well as your personal preferences.
The process of getting a filling usually involves numbing the area around the cavity so you won’t feel any pain. Your dentist will then remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a small drill. After the decay is removed, the dentist will clean the area and place the filling to restore the tooth’s shape. Once the filling is in place, the tooth is reshaped to match your natural bite.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are several types of dental fillings, each with its own advantages:
- Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings): These are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. They are durable and can last a long time, making them ideal for fillings in the back of the mouth. However, they are not tooth-colored and are more noticeable.
- Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings): Made of a tooth-colored resin, these fillings blend in with your natural teeth. They are often used for cavities in visible areas, like the front teeth, because they are less noticeable than amalgam fillings.
- Gold Fillings: Gold is another durable option that can last for many years. Gold fillings are more expensive than silver or composite fillings, but they are very strong and resistant to wear.
- Ceramic Fillings: These fillings are made of porcelain and are durable and tooth-colored. They are a great option for filling cavities in visible areas.
Why Are Dental Fillings Important?
Dental fillings help restore the function of your tooth and prevent further damage. If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to more severe problems, such as infections, abscesses, or even tooth loss. A filling can protect the tooth from further decay and restore its strength so that you can continue to use it without pain.
Fillings also help prevent bacteria from entering the tooth and causing more harm. If you have a cavity, it’s important to get it filled as soon as possible to avoid complications and protect your oral health.