Getting a dental filling is a common procedure that most people will undergo at some point in their lives. Fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury. While many of us have fillings, there are some interesting facts about them that you may not know. In this article, we’ll explore some surprising truths about dental fillings.
The History of Fillings Goes Back Thousands of Years
The use of fillings to repair teeth dates all the way back to ancient civilizations. Archaeologists have found evidence that the ancient Egyptians, Mesopotamians, Greeks, and Romans all practiced some form of filling teeth with various materials. Early filling materials included stones, precious gems, resin, and even beeswax. The cement and bonding technology weren’t as advanced back then, so these primitive fillings often fell out. Nevertheless, the basic concept of filling a cavity to prevent further decay is thousands of years old.
No Drilling is Required for Early Decay
Many people still believe that getting a cavity always requires the dentist to numb your mouth and drill into the tooth. However, modern dental techniques allow dentists to detect and treat demineralization of tooth enamel long before a real cavity forms. This early-stage decay can often be arrested and repaired merely by brushing with high-fluoride toothpaste, improved hygiene methods, or the use of remineralising gels or pastes. The decayed area essentially gets “repaired” by replacing lost minerals. Only once decay has progressed further will drilling be required for a filling.
Gold Fillings Are Highly Durable
While gold may seem antiquated, gold fillings are incredibly durable, lasting upwards of 15-30 years. This is much longer than amalgam or resin fillings. Gold is also inert, so some patients choose it to avoid the potential leaching of chemicals into the mouth. Gold fillings are also highly biocompatible and non-allergenic. Of course, the main downside of gold fillings is the higher cost. Nevertheless, those looking for extremely durable and long-lasting fillings often opt for gold.
Fillings Don’t Always Last Forever
While we don’t want to think about our fillings failing, they aren’t necessarily permanent. Depending on factors like location, materials used, and oral habits, fillings normally last 5-15 years before needing replacement. Some may last decades, but it’s important to get routine dental exams to check for wear, cracks, or leaks. Catching deterioration early allows for a quick and simple refilling procedure. Waiting too long means more decay and tooth structure loss, requiring more extensive repairs.
You Can Still Get Cavities Under Fillings
A common misconception is that once a cavity is filled, that area is “sealed off” and can’t decay again. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. If poor oral hygiene habits continue, new decay can develop in the margins around an old filling or even under it. Bacteria inevitably still find their way under fillings, slowly eroding the tooth. That’s why good brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are essential even after getting a filling. Maintaining your fillings with good care ensures they will last much longer.
Fillings Don’t Always Need Replacement
In some cases, small pieces of filling can break off or wear down over time. This may lead to sensitivity or rough edges but doesn’t necessarily mean the entire filling needs replacement right away. As long as the tooth remains sealed and protected from further decay, repair may not be immediately required. Dentists can sometimes polish down rough spots or replace just the lost fragment, a more conservative approach. However, at some point, larger fillings do need full replacement, especially if you notice staining, cracks, or leakage.
Fillings Improve Overall Health
Beyond restoring your tooth structure and smile, fillings provide important health benefits. They prevent further decay from invading the inner layers of the tooth and jaw. Stopping decay from reaching the pulp prevents the risk of abscesses, infections, and tooth loss. Fillings also halt decay from destroying the gums and bone that support your teeth. Proper chewing and nutrition are enabled by preserving your tooth integrity with fillings. Lastly, your overall confidence and well-being improve with a beautiful, functional smile. In many ways, dental fillings are an integral part of complete health.
Bottom Line
While dental fillings are a routine procedure, there are some fascinating facts behind these tooth restorations. From ancient history to modern technologies, fillings continue to adapt and improve dental health. Knowing more about your fillings empowers you to be an informed patient and maintain your smile for life.
For high-quality dental fillings in the Bayswater area, we recommend visiting our skilled dentists at Bayswater Dentist. Our team combines experience with the latest technologies to assess your tooth and determine the most appropriate, conservative filling solutions.