Tooth Filling in Sri Petaling, KL
Tooth Filling
Tooth decay, a common dental concern, can cause discomfort and affect your smile’s aesthetics. At E. L. Lim Dental Surgery, we offer reliable and effective tooth fillings to restore your teeth’s health and function.
What are Tooth Fillings?
Tooth decay, chipped teeth, or worn-down enamel can cause discomfort and affect your smile’s aesthetics. Tooth fillings are used to repair those damaged or decayed areas of your teeth. They essentially plug the holes created by cavities or other forms of damage, restoring the tooth’s functionality and preventing further decay.
Types of Tooth Fillings
There are various types of fillings, each with its own advantages and considerations:
Amalgam Fillings
Also known as silver fillings, amalgam fillings are a traditional and cost-effective option. They are highly durable and can last for many years. However due to health concerns among the public, this option is not available in our clinic.
Composite Resin Fillings
These tooth-coloured fillings are the most popular choice due to their natural-looking appearance. They bond directly to the tooth structure, offering a strong and durable restoration.
Glass Ionomer Cement
This filling material can be matched to natural tooth colour and is chemically bonded to the tooth. It is less likely to cause irritation to pulp and surrounding gum and is typically used in areas where pressure from chewing is less as it is not as strong and durable as other options.
Ceramic Onlay
Another tooth-coloured option, ceramic onlay offers excellent durability and stain resistance. They are a good and conservative choice to restore decayed back teeth but at a higher cost compared to composite fillings..
Temporary Tooth Fillings
Temporary tooth fillings, also known as temporary restorations, are used for various purposes in dental procedures.
Emergency Treatment: If you experience a sudden toothache caused by a cavity, a temporary filling can offer quick pain relief. It acts as a protective barrier until your dentist can place a permanent filling during a follow-up appointment.
Procedure Placeholder: A temporary filling acts as a placeholder, safeguarding the exposed tooth structure while your permanent restoration is being crafted in a dental lab. This temporary solution ensures continued protection and comfort until you receive your final crown or filling.
When Do I Need a Tooth Filling?
If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, you may need to come in for your qualified dentist to examine your teeth.
Toothache
This is a common symptom of a cavity, especially if the decay has reached the deeper layers of the tooth and irritated the nerve. Pain can be sharp, throbbing, or dull and might worsen with hot or cold stimuli
Visible Decay
Keep an eye out for dark spots, discoloration, or visible pits on the surface of your teeth. These are potential signs of cavities that require a filling to prevent further decay from spreading
Sensitivity
Teeth with cavities or exposed dentin (layer beneath enamel) can become sensitive to certain temperatures or textures in food and drinks. You might experience a sharp pain or discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages
Cracked Tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth can expose the inner layers of the tooth and lead to pain, sensitivity, or even infection. In such cases, a filling might be necessary to repair the damage, restore the tooth's structure, and prevent further complications
Worn-down Enamel
Over time, through habits like bruxism (teeth grinding) or consuming acidic foods, tooth enamel can wear down. This exposes the underlying dentin, making teeth more susceptible to sensitivity and decay. Depending on the severity of wear, a filling might be needed to restore the tooth's shape, function, and prevent further damage
What to Expect on Your Tooth Filling Appointment?
Consultation
Your dentist will examine your teeth, X-rays may be taken, and the most suitable type of filling will be discussed.
Procedure
Local anaesthesia is typically used to numb the area around the tooth. The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed. The chosen filling material is placed and shaped to restore the tooth’s structure.
Aftercare
Your dentist will monitor your condition and your teeth after the procedure. You will also be given instructions to make sure your filling stays long-lasting.
Why Choose Us
Advanced Technology
We use advanced dental technology, including 3D imaging and digital X-rays, for precise treatment planning and dental diagnoses.
Personalised Treatment Plans
We will work closely with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Focus on Comfort
We are dedicated to providing a comfortable environment for all our patients, with various sedation options available for your procedure.
Patient Testimonials
FAQ
Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area, minimising discomfort during the procedure. You might experience some sensitivity afterward, which usually subsides within a few days.
With proper care, fillings can last for many years. Factors like the type of filling and oral hygiene habits influence their longevity.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: brush twice daily, floss once daily.
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks to prevent future decay.
For bigger cavities, dental onlay or crown might be an option. However, fillings are generally the most common and durable solution for most cases.
Talk to your dentist. In most cases, fillings are safe during pregnancy, but the use of X-rays might require special precautions.
Yes, but consult your dentist first. Some filling materials might not whiten as effectively as natural teeth.
