Une obturation dentaire est une procédure de restauration utilisée pour réparer des fractures mineures ou des caries dans les dents. Il s'agit d'enlever le matériau de la dent cariée et de remplir la cavité avec un matériau qui rétablit la fonction et la forme normales de la dent.
Dental fillings are essential in treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth. This article will guide you through the process, types, costs, and what to expect during and after the procedure. Let’s dive into the details!
The dental filling process involves several steps:
Examination and Diagnosis: The dentist examines the tooth to determine the extent of decay or damage.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring a painless procedure.
Decay Removal: The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth using a drill, laser, or air abrasion tool.
Filling Placement: The cavity is cleaned, and the filling material is placed. The dentist shapes the material to fit the tooth’s natural contour.
Finishing Touches: The filling is polished, and the bite is adjusted to ensure comfort.
Various materials are used for dental fillings, each with its unique properties and benefits.
Gold fillings are durable and long-lasting, often lasting 10 to 15 years or more. They are made of a combination of gold, copper, and other metals. Although they are more expensive, gold fillings are highly biocompatible and preferred for their durability.
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. They are strong and ideal for filling large cavities in molars. However, they are less aesthetically pleasing due to their silver color.
Composite fillings are made from a resin material that can be color-matched to the natural tooth, making them a popular choice for visible teeth. They bond directly to the tooth structure, providing support and a natural appearance. Composite fillings typically last between 5 to 10 years.
Porcelain fillings, also known as inlays or onlays, are custom-made in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They are highly durable and stain-resistant, providing a natural look. Porcelain fillings can last 10 to 15 years or more.
Some sensitivity or discomfort is normal after a dental filling, especially when eating hot or cold foods. This typically subsides within a few days. If the discomfort persists or worsens, consult your dentist, as it may indicate a problem with the filling.
Dental fillings are necessary when:
There is tooth decay or cavities.
The tooth is cracked or broken.
There is tooth wear from habits like grinding (bruxism).
A dental filling typically takes about 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of fillings and the type of material used. Complex cases or multiple fillings may require longer.
The number of fillings that can be done in one visit depends on the patient’s comfort, the number of cavities, and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, 1 to 3 fillings can be completed in a single session.
Signs of a faulty dental filling include:
Pain when chewing
Sensitivity to hot or cold
Visible cracks or gaps
Discoloration around the filling
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your dentist for an evaluation.
2 - 3
1 - 10 Days
Local Anesthesia
None
Now
Now
5 Years
After 2 Hours