If you have a cavity that requires a filling, do not feel alone. Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic health conditions. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it. In cases where tooth decay is unavoidable, dental fillings are the most affordable and conservative type of treatment to preserve your natural tooth for many years. In this article, we explore everything you can expect during your cavity treatment so you are prepared, educated, and comfortable for your visit.
What Is A Cavity?
A cavity is the result of bacteria compromising the tooth structure. The bacteria in our mouth use the sugars left behind as fuel to create acids that break down teeth, creating cavities. Depending on the extent of the cavitation, there are different classes of tooth decay.
Class I cavities: Are limited to the pits and fissures of posterior (back) teeth.
Class II cavities: Are interproximal (in-between) posterior teeth
Class III cavities: Are cavities that are between the anterior teeth
Class IV cavities: Are the loss of tooth structure on the biting edge of anterior teeth
Class V cavities: Are found at the gum line of both anterior and posterior teeth
Class VI cavities: Are found at the cusp tip of premolars, molars, and the biting edge of anterior teeth
It’s important to know which type of cavity you have because this impacts the treatment options and what is the best material to restore your tooth to its natural function. Typically, small cavities don’t cause any symptoms and can be filled with a small filling when filled in time. When cavities become larger and compromise more tooth structure, you may develop symptoms like pain and require more invasive and expensive treatment like a dental crown.
Cavities are caused by poor oral hygiene, dietary habits that contain high sugar content, medications that can dry the mouth, and smoking.
Different Types Of Fillings
Different types of fillings are available to restore teeth, but the most commonly used are composite (white resin) and porcelain fillings. Amalgam (silver) fillings are less frequently used but have many advantages.
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and bond to teeth that are broken, chipped, or need cavity fillings. The main advantage is that they blend seamlessly with natural teeth. They are also durable, strong, and don’t require extensive cavity preparations.
Many people opt for composite resin fillings because they require smaller preparations, which helps avoid the sensitivity associated with larger tooth preparations. They are the number one type of filling due to their natural color and lack of exposure to harsh materials.
Porcelain fillings can mimic the function and color of natural teeth. They are ideal for patients who want a long-lasting restoration, but due to their strong durability and incredible aesthetics, they can come with a higher price tag.
Cost-wise, amalgam fillings are the most cost-effective, followed by composite, porcelain, or an inlay/onlay, which are more expensive.
What You Can Expect During A Cavity Treatment
During a cavity treatment, several steps must be taken to prepare. Although it is a typical routine procedure, here are the steps so you are fully ready for your dental visit!
Consultation
The dentist will clinically examine the teeth and look at any X-rays to determine if you need cavity fillings and the extent of the dental decay. Here, you can discuss the type of dental filling to treat the cavity and whether you require any sedation for the procedure. The material typically depends on the type of cavity, budget, aesthetic needs, and medical history.
Preparation
The dentist starts the procedure by administering local anesthetic to help numb the area. This will make the procedure non-painful and keep the treatment more comfortable. Some patients opt for nitrous oxide, a form of conscious sedation, to help reduce any anxiety. It is a mask that the patient breathes in throughout the treatment and then sits on oxygen at the end of treatment to flush any of the gas out.
Cavity Removal
The cavity removal part of the procedure involves removing decayed parts of the tooth. The dentist uses both high-speed and low-speed handpieces to remove tooth decay. Once the tooth decay is removed and the cavity preparation is ready, the dentist will fill the tooth.
Dental Filling
The filling is performed using an acidic etch to open the dentinal tubules up for mechanical retention. Then, a bonding agent is used for chemical retention. A filling is then placed in increments, and an LED light is used to cure (or harden) the material. Sometimes a sealant is used to seal over the tooth colored filling. The dentist will then make sure the patient’s bite is correct and polish the tooth so that it is smooth and comfortable when chewing.
Following the dental filling, the dentist will give any post-operative instructions, such as pain medication if needed, dietary restrictions, and instructions to avoid biting or chewing until the numbness wears away. Most people can resume normal activities and return for routine dental visits.
Knowing the steps of a cavity filling will prepare you for your next dental filling (if needed)! It is important to always go for routine visits to get a clinical exam so that if you need a cavity treatment, you can get started right away to avoid long-term unnecessary problems!
Contact Caldwell, Bill, Petrilli & West today to schedule your cleaning appointment!