A small cavity might not seem like much. But left untreated, it grows. What starts as a minor spot of decay can eventually compromise the entire structure of a tooth. At Baloyi Dentals, restorative fillings stop that progression and give your tooth back the strength and shape it needs to function properly.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative procedure used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the cavity thoroughly and filling the space with a durable material that restores the tooth's shape, function and structural integrity.
Fillings are one of the most common dental procedures performed worldwide. They are effective, relatively quick and can prevent a small, manageable problem from turning into something that requires more invasive treatment down the line.
What Types of Fillings Are Available?
There are several filling materials used in modern dentistry, each with its own characteristics. The most common options include composite resin, which is tooth-coloured and blends in naturally with your surrounding teeth, and amalgam, which is highly durable and often used for restorations on the back teeth where biting force is greatest.
Dumisani will discuss the available options with you and recommend the material that suits your specific case. This recommendation takes into account the location of the cavity, the extent of the damage, the functional demands on the tooth and your own preferences regarding appearance.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The area around the affected tooth is numbed using a local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort. Once you are ready, Dumisani removes the decayed material from the tooth and cleans the cavity thoroughly to ensure no bacteria remain. The chosen filling material is then placed into the prepared cavity, shaped to match the natural contour of the tooth and hardened.
The final step is checking your bite. Dumisani will ask you to close your teeth together to make sure the filled tooth sits comfortably against the opposing teeth. Any adjustments are made on the spot. The entire process is typically completed in a single appointment, and you can return to your normal routine the same day.
How Long Do Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used, the size and location of the restoration and your oral hygiene habits. With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing and routine dental visits, most fillings last for many years before they need to be replaced.
Dumisani will advise you on how to look after your restoration and will check its condition during your regular dental visits. If a filling shows signs of wear, cracking or leakage over time, it can be replaced before it causes further problems.
Think you might have a cavity? Don't wait for it to get worse.
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