The usual treatment for cavities are tooth fillings (also known as dental fillings). Nowadays, several tooth-filling materials are available, including gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (comprising mercury, silver, tin, zinc, and copper), and composite resin. Amalgam fillings provide the most cost-effective solution. Unfortunately, their mercury content makes them a subject of concern given harmful effect of mercury to one’s physical health. As a result, patients increasingly favour composite (tooth-coloured) fillings. They are more expensive than amalgam fillings but are the most appealing aesthetically and are considered better for your health.
What is a tooth filling?
A tooth filling is a restoration procedure designed to fill in cavities or damaged and missing tooth parts. Cavities are produced by bacterial activity on the tooth. Damage to teeth can occur as a result of incorrect teeth-brushing or overuse of acidic foods and drinks. Missing tooth parts may be due to incidents such as biting into hard objects and accidents such as a blow to the teeth.
When do you need a tooth filling?
If you experience any of the following, please come see us as you may need a filling:
- A stinging sensation when you eat sweets
- Sensitivity to cold or when brushing your teeth
- Pain when chewing food
- A greater occurrence of food lodging between your teeth
- Recent tooth discoloration
What is the best material for dental fillings?
That depends on you. The best material for a tooth filling is the one that provides you with the best in terms of health, function, and aesthetics. We review all potential options with you and help you choose the tooth filling that is right for you.
How are tooth fillings done?
To begin with, the decayed material in the tooth is removed with conventional dental tools or dental lasers. Then, tooth surfaces are treated with antibacterial compounds and dental lasers. Finally, a dental filling is inserted in the tooth to restore its function and form.
Do tooth fillings hurt?
No, they do not! Before we start the tooth-filling procedure, we anaesthetize your tooth. Then we perform a trial to check that the anaesthesia is effective. If you feel nothing at that precise location, work on your tooth can safely begin.
Studies have shown that, on average, amalgam fillings last 8 years, composite/plastic fillings last 6 years, and porcelain fillings last 13 years.
When should a tooth filling be replaced?
Tooth fillings have a life expectancy that is determined by a number of factors, including the type of filling material, the size of the cavity, the extent of the stress applied to the tooth, the quality of oral-hygiene maintenance, and more.
We check on the condition of your fillings on your recall visits. By ensuring that your visits are regular, we benefit from ample time to spot wear and tear on your fillings and advise you when the time is right to replace them.
Studies have shown that, on average, amalgam fillings last 8 years, composite/plastic fillings last 6 years, and porcelain fillings last 13 years.
Risks and safety concerns
There are some concerns regarding amalgam fillings. Research has shown that mercury may leak from amalgam fillings and be absorbed by the body. Mercury is toxic heavy metal that can negatively affect your health. However, research has also shown that the risk of mercury leaking from amalgam filling is not significant. To find out more, we recommend that you read the Canadian Dental Association’s FAQ on dental amalgams.
Did you know?
As dental professionals, we’re aware of the concerns regarding the safety of amalgams. Dental amalgams have been used for the past century and a half – and during that considerable stretch of time, no significant risks have been observed. The benefits, however, of using amalgams are significant, since they are stronger and more durable than other restorative materials. What’s more, new amalgam bonding techniques make this material even more useful.
Need treatment for a tooth cavity in downtown Montreal?
Comfort Care Dental Clinic treats cavities effectively with the right choice of tooth-filling materials at pricing points in line with the Quebec Dentists’ Association fee guide. Come meet our team of dedicated dental professionals at our clinic conveniently located in downtown Montreal at 2045 Stanley Street, Suite 1100 – just a two-minute walk from Peel metro station.