Understanding Dental Fillings: Types and Procedures in San Diego

Are you dealing with a toothache or recently discovered you have a cavity? You’re not alone. Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures performed by dentists in San Diego and around the world. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dental fillings, from understanding what they are to choosing the right type for your needs.

What Are Dental Fillings and Why Are They Necessary?

Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth damaged by decay. When bacteria in your mouth produce acid that erodes your tooth enamel, it creates a small hole called a cavity. If left untreated, cavities can grow larger, causing pain and potentially leading to more serious dental issues.

Fillings serve several crucial purposes:

1. They stop the decay process by sealing off the affected area
2. Restore the tooth’s structure and function
3. Prevent further damage to the tooth
4. Alleviate pain and sensitivity caused by the cavity

In San Diego, where we enjoy an active lifestyle and a variety of cuisines, maintaining good oral health is essential. Regular check-ups with your local San Diego dentist can catch cavities early, making the filling process simpler and more effective.

Types of Dental Filling Materials Available in San Diego

San Diego dentists offer a variety of filling materials, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Let’s explore the most common types:

1. Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and long-lasting (15-20 years)
• Cost-effective
• Ideal for large cavities in back teeth

Cons:

• Silver color is noticeable when you laugh or speak
• Contains mercury (though deemed safe by the FDA and ADA)
• May expand and contract with temperature changes

2. Composite Resin Fillings

Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. They’ve become increasingly popular in San Diego due to their natural appearance.

Pros:

• Color-matched to your natural teeth
• Bond directly to the tooth, providing good support
• Versatile – can be used on front and back teeth

Cons:

• May not last as long as amalgam (5-10 years)
• More expensive than amalgam
• Can stain over time, especially if you enjoy San Diego’s famous craft beer or red wine

3. Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are custom-made in a laboratory and cemented into place by your dentist.

Pros:

• Extremely durable (20+ years)
• Non-corrosive
• Well-tolerated by gum tissues

Cons:

• Most expensive option
• Requires multiple visits
• Gold color may not appeal to everyone

4. Porcelain Fillings (Inlays or Onlays)

Porcelain fillings are also custom-made in a lab and are sometimes called indirect fillings.

Pros:

• Color-matched to your natural teeth
• Highly resistant to staining
• Durable (10-15 years)

Cons:

• More expensive than composite fillings
• Requires multiple visits
• May wear opposing teeth if the surface becomes rough

How San Diego’s Climate and Lifestyle Influence Filling Choices

San Diego’s sunny climate and outdoor lifestyle can impact your choice of filling material:

1. UV exposure: With our abundant sunshine, composite fillings might be prone to faster wear and discoloration. Your San Diego dentist might recommend porcelain for visible teeth if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
2. Active lifestyle: For sports enthusiasts and surfers, durable materials like amalgam or gold might be recommended for back teeth to withstand high bite forces.
3. Beach culture: If you’re frequently exposing your teeth to salt water, materials resistant to corrosion like gold or porcelain might be preferred.
4. Diet considerations: San Diego’s diverse culinary scene, from fish tacos to craft beers, might influence your choice. Stain-resistant materials like porcelain could be beneficial if you enjoy foods and drinks that typically cause staining.

The Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect

Whether you’re visiting a dentist in downtown San Diego or La Jolla, the filling procedure typically follows these steps:

1. Numbing: The dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic.
2. Decay removal: Using a drill, air abrasion instrument, or laser, the dentist will remove the decayed area of the tooth.
3. Cleaning: The cavity is thoroughly cleaned to remove any bacteria or debris.
4. Filling: If the decay was near the root, your dentist might first apply a liner to protect the nerve. The filling material is then applied in layers.
5. Curing: For composite fillings, each layer is cured (hardened) with a special light.
6. Shaping and polishing: Once the filling is in place, the dentist will shape it to match your bite and polish it for a smooth finish.

The entire process usually takes about an hour, depending on the size and location of the cavity.

Post-Procedure Sensitivity and Care

It’s common to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days after getting a filling. This is normal and should subside within a week or two. If sensitivity persists or you experience sharp pain when biting down, contact your San Diego dentist as the filling might need adjustment.

To care for your new filling:

• Avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages for the first few days
• If you grind your teeth, consider getting a night guard
• Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
• Continue regular check-ups with your San Diego dentist

Longevity of Different Filling Types

The lifespan of your filling depends on several factors, including the material used, the size and location of the filling, and your oral hygiene habits. Here’s a general guide:

• Amalgam: 15-20 years
• Composite: 5-10 years
• Gold: 20+ years
• Porcelain: 10-15 years

Remember, these are averages. With excellent care and regular dental check-ups, your fillings could last even longer.

Embracing New Technologies: Advanced Filling Procedures in San Diego

San Diego dentists are at the forefront of adopting new technologies to make the filling process more comfortable and efficient:

Laser Dentistry

Some San Diego dental practices now use lasers to remove decay and prepare the tooth for filling. Benefits include:

• Less noise and vibration compared to traditional drills
• Often eliminates the need for anesthesia
• More precise removal of decay, preserving more healthy tooth structure

CAD/CAM Same-Day Restorations

For larger fillings or inlays/onlays, some San Diego dentists offer CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology. This allows for:

• Custom-made porcelain fillings created in a single visit
• Digital impressions, eliminating the need for messy molds
• Extremely precise fit and color matching

Air Abrasion

This technique uses a stream of fine particles to remove decay. It’s often used for small cavities and has these advantages:

• Minimally invasive
• Often doesn’t require anesthesia
• Preserves more healthy tooth structure

Preventing Future Cavities: Tips from San Diego Dentists

While fillings are an effective treatment for cavities, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy and cavity-free:

1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
2. Watch your diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Remember, even healthy foods like San Diego’s famous avocados and citrus fruits can be acidic.
3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water, especially after meals, helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
4. Consider dental sealants: These protective coatings can prevent decay on the chewing surfaces of back teeth.
5. Use fluoride: In addition to fluoride toothpaste, your dentist might recommend fluoride treatments or a fluoride mouthwash.
6. Regular check-ups: Visit your San Diego dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
7. Quit smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking increases your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Conclusion: Your Partner in Dental Health

Understanding dental fillings is an important part of maintaining your oral health. From choosing the right material to embracing new technologies, San Diego dentists are here to guide you through the process and ensure your smile stays bright and healthy.

Remember, early detection and treatment of cavities can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or it’s been a while since your last check-up, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local San Diego dentist.

Your smile is an important part of your overall health and well-being. By taking care of your teeth and addressing issues like cavities promptly, you’re investing in a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Ready to take the next step in your dental health journey? Explore our directory of top-rated dental professionals in San Diego to find the perfect dentist for your needs.