Fillings restore a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc back to its normal function and shape. Different types of materials used for fillings are
1· Porcelain
2· Gold
3· Amalgam (a metallic alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin and occasionally zinc)
4· Composite resin (most widely used today)
Composite resin (white filling)
A composite resin is a tooth-colored plastic mixture filled with glass (silicon dioxide) that can be bonded to teeth. The fact that the resin is bonded means a seal is formed to reduce the chance of leakage (which is common with silver fillings); they also support the remaining tooth structure, which helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes.
Procedure
The dentist will first remove the decayed tooth material, and then cleans the affected area. When the process is finished, the dentist places the composite in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer .The dentist then polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.
After receiving a composite, it is normal for a patient to experience post-operative sensitivity to hot and cold which will subside after few days.
Regular checkups are encouraged in order to track changing conditions in the mouth.