Fillings

Have you ever heard someone talk about dental fillings and wondered what they're? Or have you met someone from the dentists with fresh fillings, and you got curious about the process? Or maybe you have removed a tooth due to decay and want to know how to do a refill. Keep reading this article to get the best information about the topic.

Dental fillings can be said to be dental materials used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury. The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the space with a suitable material. Here’s a closer look at fillings and their importance for oral health:

Types of Fillings:

  1. Composite Resin: Tooth-colored material that blends well with natural teeth, ideal for visible areas.
  2. Amalgam-A durable, silver-colored material made from a mixture of metals; often used for back teeth due to its strength.
  3. Glass Ionomer- A material that releases fluoride, providing some protection against further decay; often used in children’s teeth.
  4. Porcelain- Offers a natural look and durability for inlays and outlays.

Importance of Fillings for Oral Health:

  1. Preventing Further Decay: By sealing the area of decay, fillings help prevent bacteria from causing more damage.
  2. Restoring Functionality: Fillings restore the tooth’s ability to chew and grind food, maintaining overall dental function.
  3. Improving Aesthetics: Tooth-colored fillings enhance the appearance of teeth, especially in visible areas.
  4. Saving Natural Tooth Structure: Filling cavities allows for the preservation of as much of the natural tooth as possible compared to extraction.
  5. Reducing Sensitivity: Fillings can alleviate tooth sensitivity caused by decay, providing comfort while eating or drinking.
  6. Promoting Overall Health: Maintaining good oral health through fillings can contribute to overall health, as oral infections can lead to systemic health issues.

 

Costs of Dental Fillings

The cost of dental fillings will depend on the filling procedure and the kind of filling material used. That is because some procedures like indirect filling and root canal filling are more involving and time-consuming. Root canal filling may need a surgical procedure first before the filling is done, which drives the cost upwards.

On average, a single surface permanent filling will cost between Kshs. 5,000 and 10,000 depending on the procedure and the filling material. Gold fillings may push the prices higher than this, depending on the weight of the gold you want to be used to do the filling.

 

FAQs About Dental Fillings

1.How can i tell if i need a filling?

Signs that you may need a filling include:

  • Tooth sensitivity or pain
  • Visible holes or cracks in the teeth
  • Dark spots or discoloration on the tooth surface

2.What is the difference between a filling and a crown?

A filling repairs a small area of decay, while a crown covers and protects a tooth that is significantly damaged or weakened. Crowns provide more extensive restoration.

3.Are there any risks or complications?

While dental fillings are generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Allergic reactions to materials
  • Sensitivity to temperature
  • In rare cases, filling failure or leakage

4.How can I care for my fillings?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for check-ups to ensure the longevity of your fillings.

5.Is getting a filling painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, as local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area. Some sensitivity may occur afterward, but this usually subsides.

6.Are there alternatives to fillings?

For minor decay, fluoride treatments or dental sealants may be options, but for significant cavities, fillings are typically necessary. In some cases, if a tooth is too damaged, a root canal or crown may be needed.

If you have specific concerns about dental fillings, Consult Royal Smiles Dental Clinic in Kenya, for all your filling and other dental needs.

 

We offer a wide range of dental services including carrying out fillings, orthodontic treatment, emergency dental care, dental examination, dental x-rays, tooth extraction, provision of dentures, teeth cleaning and whitening, dental implants, gum disease treatment, root canal treatment, teeth splinting and TMJ treatment.