When a tooth decay happens, a dental filling may be needed to repair the tooth from the damage of the tooth decay. The dentist will start by conducting a preliminary examination of the affected teeth to assess whether they can be salvaged and the best course of action based on the patient’s needs and expectations.

 

What are dental fillings for?

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Dental fillings are applied to preserve a tooth’s health by halting the decay caused by a cavity and patching up the hole caused by the tooth decay.

 

What type of dental fillings are often used?

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Fillings materials that can be used include metal amalgams and composite resin.

 

1) Amalgam fillings: 

Dental amalgam has been used to restore decayed teeth since 1830. Dental amalgam is a mixture of metals, consisting of about 50% mercury. Mercury vapour is released upon removal of amalgam filling. International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) has a protocol to remove amalgam filling in a safer manner.

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Gentle Smile Dental Studio is a mercury free practice.

 

2) Composite Resin restorations:

The most common used direct filling material at Gentle Smile Dental Studio. The technology used in composite resin allows it to be bonded/adhered to the tooth. With proper oral maintenance, composite resin restorations can last more than a decade.

 

Composite resin is tooth coloured, offering an aesthetic pleasing option for tooth restoration.

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At Gentle Smile Dental Studio, we follow a strict application protocol when we are placing composite resin restoration to improve the lifespan of the restoration.

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