Dental Fillings

1. What is dental filling?

Dental fillings are a dental treatment that restores the shape, function, and aesthetics of damaged teeth. This process involves using special materials to fill holes or cracks in teeth, protecting them from bacterial attack and preventing more serious dental problems.

2. When is a tooth filling needed?

2.1. Tooth filling

Răng sâu là tình trạng phổ biến khiến khách hàng cần trám răng. Khi vi khuẩn trong miệng tạo ra axit phá hủy men răng và ngà răng, sẽ hình thành các lỗ sâu. Trám răng giúp lấp đầy các lỗ này, ngăn ngừa sự phát triển của vi khuẩn và bảo vệ răng khỏi tổn thương thêm.

2.2. Chipped tooth filling

Teeth chipped due to trauma or chewing hard objects also need to be filled to restore the shape and function of the tooth, and prevent bacteria from entering the cracks.

2.3. Filling teeth with slight gaps

Teeth with gaps or slight gaps can be filled to improve aesthetics and prevent food from getting stuck, causing gum inflammation.

2.4. Worn teeth, missing tooth necks

Teeth with worn or missing tooth necks due to improper brushing or disease also need fillings to protect the dentin and reduce sensitivity.

2.5. Dental filling to replace old filling

Old fillings can wear out or chip over time and need to be replaced to continue protecting the tooth from bacterial attack.

3. Types of dental fillings

3.1. Dental fillings with Amalgam

Amalgam is an alloy of mercury, silver, tin and copper. It is a traditional dental filling material, durable and low cost. However, the color of amalgam is not aesthetic and can cause allergies in some people.

3.2. Composite tooth filling

Composite is a modern dental filling material, with a color similar to natural teeth, providing high aesthetics. Composite fillings Suitable for front teeth and teeth with high aesthetic requirements. However, composite has lower durability than amalgam and requires longer filling time.

Amalgam fillings and composite fillings

3.3. Porcelain fillings

Porcelain is a high-quality dental filling material, with high durability and good aesthetics. Porcelain fillings are usually made separately and attached to the tooth with dental adhesive. This method is often used for back teeth and cases requiring high durability.

3.4. GIC material

Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) is a fluoride-containing dental filling material that helps prevent tooth decay from recurring. GIC is commonly used for primary teeth and teeth that are not subjected to strong chewing forces.

4. Dental filling process

Dental fillings are a common dental procedure that restores function and aesthetics to decayed or damaged teeth. Here are the detailed steps involved in the dental filling procedure:

4.1. Examination and consultation

• The dentist will conduct a general examination of the patient's oral health.
• Dựa trên kết quả kiểm tra, nha sĩ sẽ tư vấn phương pháp trám răng phù hợp, bao gồm loại vật liệu trám và quy trình thực hiện.

4.2. Anesthesia

• If necessary, the dentist will apply local anesthesia to the area of the tooth that needs filling to reduce pain and make the patient feel comfortable during the treatment.
• Anesthesia is usually performed by injecting a local anesthetic into the gum area around the tooth to be filled.

4.3. Remove damaged tooth part

• The dentist will use specialized dental tools such as drills and dental knives to remove decayed or damaged parts of the tooth.
• This process needs to be done carefully to ensure complete removal of the damaged tooth without affecting the surrounding healthy tooth structure.

4.4. Dental fillings

• After removing the damaged part of the tooth, the dentist will prepare the filling material. This material can be composite, amalgam, or porcelain depending on the position and aesthetic requirements of the tooth.
• The dentist will apply the filling material to the hole or crack in the tooth, then shape and adjust it to fit perfectly with the natural tooth.

4.5. Polishing

• After filling the tooth, the dentist will polish the surface of the filling to ensure the tooth has a smooth and aesthetic surface.
• The polishing process also helps the filling to be less bulky and more comfortable to chew on.
• The dental filling procedure not only helps restore chewing function but also improves aesthetics, giving patients a confident smile.

5. Does tooth filling hurt?

The filling process is usually painless thanks to the use of local anesthesia. However, after the filling, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity for the first few days, but this will gradually subside.

6. Are dental fillings durable? How often should they be replaced?

The durability of a dental filling depends on the type of filling material and the location of the tooth being filled. Amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years, while composite fillings typically last 5-7 years. Porcelain fillings can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. If a filling becomes worn or chipped, you should see your dentist for an examination and replacement if necessary.

7. Instructions on how to care for your teeth after filling

• Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods for the first few days after your filling.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss to clean between your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with salt water or an alcohol-free mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene.
• Visit your dentist regularly to make sure the filling is still in good condition and has no problems.

8. Harmful effects of incorrect tooth filling

Incorrect tooth filling can cause many harmful effects such as:

• Infection: If the filling is not done properly, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause infection.
• Pain: Ill-fitting fillings can cause pain and discomfort when chewing.
• Broken filling: An unstable filling can break or chip, causing further damage to the tooth.
• Gingivitis: Improperly positioned fillings can cause irritation and inflammation of the gums.

Tóm lại, trám răng là một phương pháp hiệu quả để phục hồi và bảo vệ răng bị tổn thương. Tuy nhiên, việc lựa chọn vật liệu trám và thực hiện đúng quy trình là rất quan trọng để đảm bảo kết quả tốt và tránh các tác hại không mong muốn.