DENTAL FILLING

Dental filling is a dental procedure commonly used to treat cavities or damage to teeth. In this procedure, the empty or damaged tooth area is filled with a special filling material and the functionality and aesthetics of the tooth are restored. Nowadays, with the ever-developing technology, fillings that match the natural tooth color and texture can be made using aesthetic and composite filling materials. This allows patients to achieve a healthy smile without compromising the aesthetic appearance and natural tooth function after treatment. Additionally, modern filling techniques can provide longer-lasting results by preserving the structure of the tooth, thus helping patients maintain their dental health.

There are many types of fillings, let’s take a look at them together;

FILLING TYPES

There are various types of fillings used in dental filling treatment, each has different properties and can be preferred according to the patient’s needs.

• AMALGAM FILLING

Amalgam, the traditional filling material, consists of a mixture of various metals. These fillings, which contain mercury, silver, tin and copper, have been popular for many years because they are durable and low cost. However, they are not preferred by some patients due to aesthetic concerns and the mercury they contain.

• COMPOSITE FILLER

Composite fillings, composed of a mixture of resin and glass powders, are an aesthetic option that can be matched to tooth color and provide a similar appearance to natural tooth tissue. They also help achieve a more natural smile by preserving the shape and color of the teeth.

• PORCELAIN FILLING

Porcelain fillings made of porcelain materials specially prepared in the laboratory and designed to fit the tooth can provide excellent results in terms of durability and aesthetics. They are known for being more durable than other types of fillings and providing an appearance closer to the natural tooth structure. However, the implementation process is longer and the cost is higher.

These types of fillings are determined according to the patient’s needs and preferences after a comprehensive evaluation with the dentist. Selection of the ideal filling should be made considering both functionality and aesthetic appearance.

• AESTHETIC AND COMPOSITE FILLERS

Aesthetic and composite fillings are one of the most important developments in modern dentistry. These fillings can be made in tooth color and blend perfectly with the natural texture of the tooth. Additionally, composite fillings are less invasive and require the removal of less dental tissue because they are applied directly to the tooth by the dentist. This helps further protect teeth and achieve a long-term healthy smile.

HOW IS A DENTAL FILLING DONE?

Dental filling application is usually completed in a few steps:

• Preparation: The dentist cleans and prepares the damaged or decayed area. If necessary, the old filling or carious tissue is removed.
• Placement of the Filling: Appropriate filling material is applied and shaped to the damaged area by the dentist.
• Shaping the Filling: The filling material is shaped and polished to match the natural shape and biting planes of the tooth.
• Check and Adjustment: The dentist performs checks to ensure that the filling is placed properly and does not affect the functionality of the tooth.

Things to Consider After Having a Filling

Dental fillings can last a long time with regular brushing, flossing and regular dentist check-ups. Also, avoiding hard and sticky foods can increase the durability of the filling.

To summarize, dental fillings are an effective method for treating cavities or damage to teeth. Aesthetic and composite fillings can help you achieve a healthy and aesthetic smile by ensuring that fillings match the natural tooth color and texture. However, dental filling application must be performed by a specialist dentist and supported by regular dental care. This way, you can protect your dental health and increase your self-confidence with a beautiful smile.