What are Fillings?
Fillings are restorative dental treatments for repairing cracked, broken or worn teeth. They are most often used to fill a cavity, which is a decayed part of the tooth that causes a hole to form.
A tooth starts to decay as a result of a buildup of bacteria and sugars on the teeth that create a film of plaque. Natural minerals in the saliva work to prevent this occurrence and protect the teeth enamel. However, if plaque remains then it releases acids that destroy the minerals in the tooth enamel and leads to the formation of a cavity.
You may need a filling for a number of reasons:
- Tooth decay.
- If a tooth has become fractured due to factors such as age, a sporting injury or an accident.
- Teeth have become worn down from use or grinding.
- To aid with structure.
Fillings can be made from a number of different materials. These include:
Filling Procedures at Burgess & Hyder Dental Group
At Burgess & Hyder Dental Group, fillings are provided as an NHS service. Here’s what is involved:
How to Care for Your Filling
The following steps can help to ensure the long-term success of your filling:
You may need a filling for a number of reasons:
- Maintain good daily hygiene practices, which includes brushing and flossing teeth twice every day.
- Monitor your oral health and if you notice any cracks or areas of wear in the filling please book an appointment to see us.
- Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleaning.