Какая самая лучшая пломба для зуба: Лучший материал для пломбирования зубов в 2020 году

Какую пломбу лучше ставить на зуб, плюсы и минусы различных материалов

Пломбирование – наиболее востребованная стоматологическая услуга. Обычно клиника работает с определенным материалом. Но некоторые используют разные виды и предлагают больному выбрать самый подходящий. В этом случае пациенту необходимо заранее знать, какую пломбу лучше всего ставить в конкретном случае.

Плюсы и минусы различных пломбировочных материалов

Все пломбы в стоматологии делятся на 2 основные группы: временные и постоянные. Первые устанавливают при длительной терапии (лечении пульпита, периодонтита, кист на верхушке корня). Вторыми восстанавливают коронковую часть зуба. Их срок службы – от 2 до 10 лет.

Дополнительная информация! При использовании временных составов врачи редко уточняют у больного, какие пломбы выбирать. Они руководствуют медицинскими показаниями. Но с постоянными дело обстоит иначе: учитывают не только клиническую картину, но также личные предпочтения и финансовые возможности пациента.

Пластмассовые пломбы используют в качестве временных.

В стоматологической практике используют несколько видов пломбировочных материалов.

Пластмассовые

Основной плюс – низкая стоимость и простота в использовании. Пластмассовые составы предпочитают не применять из-за многочисленных недостатков:

• неэстетичность: материал не позволяет в точности восстановить цвет и анатомическую форму зуба, быстро окрашивается, темнеет;
• низкая адгезия – сцепление;
• высокая усадка;
• токсичность – свыше в 90% развивается вторичный кариес, пульпит;
• малый срок службы – в среднем 2 года.

Металлические

Представляют сплав из основного металла (чаще всего золота, серебра), ртути и вспомогательных компонентов. Такие пломбы – амальгамы – сверхпрочные. Срок службы нередко превышает 10 лет. Также они дешевые.

Но амальгамы сегодня почти не используют из-за:

• возможного гальванизма: изменения электрохимических процессов в полости рта, сопровождается металлическим привкусом;
• низкой эстетики: цвет пломбы резко отличается от эмали;
• отличия в коэффициенте температурного расширения зуба и состава – возможно разрушение стенок.

  Амальгама служит более 10 лет.

Цементные

В отечественной стоматологии коронку зуба восстанавливали в большинстве случаев цементными составами до начала 2000-х. Сегодня этот пломбировочный материал не утратил популярность из-за:

• относительно низкой стоимости;
• достаточной прочности – служит 3 – 5 лет;
• плотного сцепления со стенками зуба;
• наличия фтора в составе – предотвращает дальнейшее развитие кариеса.

Важно! Цементные материалы предпочитают при лечении труднодоступных единиц («восьмерок») и молочных зубов.

Цементные пломбы часто ставят на восьмерки.

Чаще всего устанавливают пломбы из стеклоиономерного цемента (СИЦ). Он максимально подобен цвету эмали, высокопрочный, нетоксичный, устойчив к влаге. Также существуют силикатные и фосфатные цементные составы. Область их применения – протезирование. Материалы используют для крепления коронок.

Химически отверждаемые композиты

Композиты стали прорывом в стоматологии. Эти пломбы лучше позволяют восстановить анатомическую форму зуба, пластичные, прочные, не поддаются воздействию красителей.

Материалы состоят из полимерного матрикса, наполнителя (диоксида кремния, стеклокерамики), силана – связующего элемента.

Химически отверждаемые композиты бывают:

1. Акрилоксидные. Устойчивы к механическим нагрузкам, прочные. Однако токсичные. Их не ставят на недепульпированные единицы, так как нередко возникает воспаление.
2. Эпоксидные. В состав входит эпоксидная смола. Хорошо прилегают к стенкам, достаточно пластичны, низкотоксичны. Однако склонны к потемнению, нередко раскалываются.

Светоотверждаемые композиты

Подобны предыдущим материалам. Но застывают не в результате внутренних химических процессов, а под воздействием лучей полимеризационной лампы. Время отверждения – от 20 до 40 секунд.

Сегодня светоотверждаемые или фотополимерные пломбы – наиболее универсальны. Большинство клиник предпочитает поставить именно их по причинам:

• высокой эстетичности: обладают естественной прозрачностью, широкой цветовой гаммой, позволяют восстановить коронку до долей миллиметра;
• прочности: срок службы не менее 5 лет;
• неограниченного рабочего времени: так как застывает состав только при воздействии УФ-лучей, врач может ставить пломбу неограниченный период;
• хорошей адгезии;
• низкой токсичности и усадки.

  Световые пломбы затвердевают под специальной лампой.

Важно! Светоотверждаемые композиты не применяют при восстановлении труднодоступных единиц, например, «восьмерок». В этой зоне невозможно корректно направить лучи галогенной лампы.

Компомеры

Сочетают качества цементных и композитных пломб. У них хороший показатель адгезии и прочности. В состав входят перекиси бензоина и амина, мономер, смолы, полиакриловая кислота. Для профилактики кариеса включают фтор.

Как и композиты, бывают химического и светового отверждения. Однако компомеры служат меньше. Также они дорогостоящие. Их применяют для реставрации резцов и клыков.

Вкладки

Установка вкладок относится не к пломбированию, а к микропротезированию. Однако ими также восстанавливают разрушенные кариесом зубы.

Вкладки изготавливаются по слепкам в лаборатории.

Дополнительная информация! Чаще всего вкладки применяются для лечения обширных разрушений, затрагивающих сразу несколько расположенных рядом единиц. Они состоят из керамики или фарфора. Изготавливаются по слепкам в лаборатории.

Сегодня вкладки – самый прочный материал, применяемый при пломбировании. Они равномерно распределяют нагрузку, нетоксичны, высокоэстетичны.

Какие пломбировочные материалы используют для молочных зубов?

Лечение молочных зубов имеет свои особенности. Так, детям категорически запрещается устанавливать амальгаму или пластмассовые пломбы. Восстанавливают коронку детям тремя материалами:

1. Цементными составами. Предпочитают СИЦ. Особенно полезен при прогрессирующем или рецидивирующем кариесе, недостаточной гигиене. Иногда отмечают недолговечность состава, но так как «молочники» сменятся через пару лет, этот фактор не играет роли.
2. Фотоотверждаемые композиты. Могут использоваться только при соблюдении ряда условий: отсутствии обширных кариозных повреждений, хорошей гигиене, качественной обработке полости. Их предпочитают не использовать по причинам:

• ребенку сложно высидеть длительное время, он редко дает полноценно очистить полость и провести антисептическую обработку, в результате нарушается технология установки, и пломба может выпасть через пару недель;
• у детей широкие дентинные канальцы, по которым выделяемый остаточный мономер после полимеризации проникает к пульпе и оказывает токсическое воздействие на нее, композит нужно отделять от дентина специальной прокладкой;
• в «молочниках» и постоянных единицах несколько лет после прорезывания происходит минерализация, их плотность ниже, чем у композитов, за счет чего нередко ломаются стенки зуба.

  Детям категорически запрещается устанавливать амальгаму или пластмассовые пломбы.

3. Цветной компомер. Эти пломбы используют наиболее часто из-за:

• простоты в работе: высокой пластичности, быстрой установке;
• способности накапливать фтор из паст и пищи, а после отдавать его тканям;
• хорошего сцепления;
• безопасного химического состава;
• ребенок может выбрать цвет – фактор помогает наладить контакт с врачом, дети с удовольствием ухаживают за разноцветными зубками;
• краситель в составе позволяет легко определить, когда пломба начала стираться.

Ценовой фактор

Немаловажный момент при выборе пломбы – стоимость. Иногда этот параметр становится ключевым.

Ориентировочная цена на пломбировочные материалы в московских клиниках:

Тип	Цена в рублях
Пластмассовые	500
Металлические	500 – 700
Цементные	1 500
Химически отверждаемые композиты	2 000 – 4 000
Фотополимеры	от 3 000 до 10 000 в зависимости от сложности работы
Компомеры	5 000
Вкладки	12 000 – 25 000

В стоматологической практике используются пластмассовые, металлические, композитные, компомерные пломбы и вкладки. Универсальным вариантом считаются фотополимерные материалы. Их применяют в каждой клинике. Несмотря на достаточно высокую стоимость, пациенты отдают им предпочтение из-за высокой прочности, эстетичности и простоты в уходе.

90000 Tooth sensitivity after a filling: What is normal? 90001 90002 When a person has a cavity in their tooth, a dentist will probably recommend a filling. Fillings are safe and effective, but some people might experience discomfort or tooth sensitivity afterward. 90003 90002 Most of the time, this sensitivity is normal and will resolve within a few days or weeks. 90003 90002 A person should call their dentist right away if they have extreme pain, or if discomfort occurs with other symptoms, such as fever, redness, or swelling.90003 90002 In this article, we look at the reasons why a person may have tooth sensitivity after a filling, how to treat it, and when to see a doctor or dentist. We also look at other possible causes of tooth sensitivity. 90003 90002 A filling is a dental procedure that involves a dentist cleaning away any decay from the tooth and then filling the space with a new material. 90003 90002 After injecting a numbing agent around the tooth, the dentist will then clean out the decayed area of ​​the tooth, usually with a dental drill.They will then fill the space with gold, silver amalgam, a composite, or porcelain. 90003 90002 For several hours after having a filling, a person's face may still feel numb, tingly, itchy, or puffy. They may have difficulty eating, swallowing, talking, or moving their face. 90003 90002 Sometimes, dentists recommend that people avoid eating or drinking for a few hours, as this may result in a person accidentally biting their tongue or cheek. 90003 90002 Once the numbing agent has worn off, these feelings will go away.But, in the following days and weeks, a person may notice some new sensations as they adjust to the new filling. 90003 90002 Sensitivity in the filled tooth or area around it is one of the most common occurrences during this time. 90003 90002 When a person has a sensitive tooth, they may notice that certain triggers cause a temporary, uncomfortable sensation in the filled tooth or surrounding area. It may feel like a shock of cold or sudden pain that comes on quickly and goes away. 90003 90002 Factors that can trigger tooth sensitivity after a filling include: 90003 90026 90027 cold foods or drinks, such as ice cream, popsicles, or beverages with ice 90028 90027 hot drinks, such as coffee or tea 90028 90027 air hitting the tooth, such as when breathing through the mouth, which may be worse with cold air 90028 90027 sugary foods, such as candy 90028 90027 acidic foods and drinks, including fruit, juice, and coffee 90028 90027 biting down when eating 90028 90039 90002 Some sensitivity after a tooth filling is normal and temporary.Sometimes, however, sensitivity after a filling is due to other causes that need treatment or repair. 90003 90002 Below, we discuss possible reasons for this symptom and when to see a dentist. 90003 90044 An irritated nerve 90045 90002 Short-term tooth sensitivity after a filling usually occurs because the filling procedure has aggravated or caused inflammation in the nerve inside the tooth. 90003 90002 Usually, the tooth's outer layers - the enamel and cementum - protect the nerve from exposure.But fillings, especially deep ones, can get close to the nerve endings and cause irritation and uncomfortable sensations. 90003 90002 As the nerve heals, the sensitivity will go away. This may take a few days or weeks. Once the nerve has healed fully, a person should feel no difference between the filled tooth and the other teeth. 90003 90044 Incorrect bite alignment 90045 90002 A dentist must ensure that the filling lines up with the other teeth in the mouth. If the filling is too tall, it can cause extra pressure as a person bites down.This can cause pain and sensitivity that is often more severe than normal post-filling sensitivity. 90003 90002 It is quite normal for a person to experience some minor sensitivity when biting down in the days following the procedure. Typically, the bite will correct itself within a few weeks. 90003 90002 However, if a person experiences severe sensitivity, or they have difficulty eating or putting their teeth together, they should ask their dentist to check the bite. The dentist may decide to smooth down the high point of the filling to properly fit the bite and eliminate discomfort.90003 90044 Pulpitis 90045 90002 Pulpitis is inflammation of the pulp deep within the tooth. It can cause tooth sensitivity and pain. 90003 90002 Pulpitis does not regularly occur with minor fillings, but it might happen if: 90003 90026 90027 the tooth has had trauma, such as from an accident that resulted in a cracked or broken tooth 90028 90027 the cavity was very deep, reaching the inner pulp layer 90028 90027 the tooth has undergone multiple fillings or procedures 90028 90039 90002 There are two types of pulpitis: 90003 90026 90027 reversible pulpitis refers to mild inflammation where the pulp remains healthy, and the tooth will heal on its own 90028 90027 irreversible pulpitis is when there is a damaged nerve that starts to die, in which case a person will need a root canal to save the tooth 90028 90039 90002 A dentist can usually resolve pulpitis with a new filling or a restorative procedure, such as a root canal.A person may also need to take antibiotics to clear any bacterial infection. 90003 90002 When a person experiences normal, post-filling sensitivity, a dentist may recommend that they use a desensitizing toothpaste. 90003 90002 These products contain an ingredient called potassium nitrate that helps stop the sensations on the surface of the tooth from reaching the nerve endings inside. 90003 90002 These products do not work immediately, but a person should notice relief within several days if they use the toothpaste twice a day.90003 90002 A person may also try the following methods at home to help relieve tooth sensitivity: 90003 90026 90027 Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. 90028 90027 Topical numbing ointment designed for the mouth. 90028 90027 A toothbrush labeled for sensitive teeth. These are softer than standard toothbrushes and will be less harsh on the tooth enamel. 90028 90027 Brush with gentle, circular strokes on the teeth and gums. Avoid scrubbing back and forth or aggressive pushing of the brush on the teeth.90028 90027 Floss once a day, taking care to be gentle on the gums and teeth. 90028 90027 Take note of which foods or drinks cause sensitivity and avoid them if possible. 90028 90027 Avoid whitening toothpaste and products, which can make sensitivity worse. 90028 90027 Rinse the mouth out with water after consuming acidic foods or drinks, such as coffee and fruit. Acidic foods and beverages can wear away the tooth enamel. 90028 90027 Avoid brushing the teeth immediately after eating acidic foods, as it may remove more of the enamel.90028 90039 90002 If tooth sensitivity does not improve in the days following a filling, talk to a dentist. It is essential that the dentist rules out other potential causes of sensitivity that may not be related to the filling. 90003 90002 Sometimes a tooth may be sensitive for reasons other than the filling procedure. If the sensitivity develops later, such as within a few weeks or months after a dental procedure, it could be due to one of the following issues: 90003 90044 Tooth abscess 90045 90002 A tooth abscess is an infection in the nerve of the tooth.A very deep cavity, gum disease, or a cracked tooth usually causes an abscess. 90003 90002 Symptoms of a tooth abscess include: 90003 90026 90027 a severe toothache 90028 90027 sensitivity 90028 90027 redness on the gums 90028 90027 a bad taste in the mouth 90028 90027 a pimple- or boil-like bump on the gums 90028 90027 fever 90028 90039 90002 A tooth abscess requires medical care. A person who notices these symptoms should see a doctor or dentist right away. 90003 90044 Loose or broken older fillings 90045 90002 Dental fillings generally last for years, but they do not last forever.If an older filling becomes loose or breaks, it can cause sensitivity and pain as it gets closer to the nerve in the tooth. 90003 90002 Even if the loose or broken filling does not cause discomfort, a person should get a replacement to prevent further damage or decay to the tooth. 90003 90044 Gum disease 90045 90002 Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can cause tooth sensitivity. 90003 90002 This is because it causes the gums to recede, or pull away from the tooth. This exposes part of the tooth near the root and can make it feel sensitive.The root of the tooth does not have enamel to protect it. 90003 90002 Other symptoms of gum disease include: 90003 90026 90027 red or bleeding gums, especially while brushing or flossing 90028 90027 gums that look different than usual 90028 90027 teeth that appear to be separating 90028 90027 loose teeth in adults 90028 90027 sores or pus in the mouth 90028 90039 90002 Gum disease often causes no symptoms in its early stages. This is why it is important that people see their dentist regularly to check for problems before they become serious.90003 90002 People should not be alarmed if a tooth is mildly sensitive in the days following a filling. Using home remedies and desensitizing toothpaste should help relieve the discomfort. 90003 90002 A person should see a dentist right away if the sensitivity worsens, makes it difficult for them to eat, or they experience other symptoms, such as a toothache or fever. 90003 90002 Fillings are a safe and effective way to treat dental cavities. Most fillings will last many years. Taking good care of teeth with daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental checkups, can help prevent future cavities.90003 90002 Some sensitivity after getting a filling is normal. But, see a dentist for severe sensitivity or pain or if other problems, such as fever or redness, develop. 90003.90000 How long do composite and amalgam fillings last? 90001 90002 How long does each type last? - Longevity statistics from research. / A comparison of advantages & disadvantages. / How to choose which kind to place. 90003 90004 White vs. silver fillings. 90005 90002 Dental composite (the white plastic compound utilized with tooth-bonding technique) is routinely used to make fillings for back teeth. 90003 90002 But based on its physical properties, and the stringent demands of the technique needed to place it, it's questionable that it makes a better choice than dental amalgam (the metal used to make "silver" fillings).It's better said that a composite restoration can make a good choice, for some types of applications. 90003 90004 How to choose between the two. 90005 90002 The top half of this page outlines the issues your dentist must consider when deciding which of the two makes the more appropriate choice for your tooth. 90003 90002 The middle portion then outlines the specific advantages and disadvantages of one type of filling over the other. 90003 90002 We then wrap up with a section citing statistics from dental research explaining how long each type of filling can be expected to last.90003 90018 90019 Composite vs. Silver (amalgam) fillings - 90020 90021 Issues to consider when placed on back teeth. 90022 90002 For comparatively larger restorations, amalgam fillings tend to show a lower failure rate than composite ones. 90003 90004 A) Filling size. 90005 90004 Large fillings. 90005 90002 It used to be that the strength and wear characteristics of dental composite clearly did not equal those of amalgam, and for this reason did not make the best choice for comparatively larger fillings for back teeth.90003 90002 Today, with improvements in the composition of bonding materials, this may not be as large of an issue anymore. 90003 Some recent studies report just minimal differences between the performance of the two materials (see longevity section below). 90002 However, we will state that one that did find a low failure rate for composite fillings (Opdam 2010) specifically stated that when comparatively larger restorations are considered, amalgam ones demonstrate better survival. [Page references] 90003 90004 Smaller fillings.90005 90002 As you might expect, the physical demands placed on comparatively smaller fillings, especially those not located on portions of a tooth subject to heavy chewing forces, are reduced as compared to larger ones. And that means that either composite or amalgam can make a good choice for these types of applications. 90003 90004 B) Exposure to excessive forces. 90005 90002 One of the main causes of bonded filling failure is their fracture. And that means that dental composite does not make a good choice for restorations that are routinely be exposed to excessive forces.As an example, an amalgam filling would likely make a better choice for a patient who had a habit of clenching and grinding their teeth. 90003 90002 (Beck [2015] reported that fracture was the most common cause of composite restoration failure.) 90003 90004 C) Patients with a high decay rate. 90005 90002 Dentists use the term "recurrent" decay to refer to cavities that form adjacent to existing fillings. And this is more likely to occur if there's some type of nook or cranny in which dental plaque can accumulate, like a tiny gap between a tooth and its filling.90003 90004 Amalgam vs. composite. 90005 90002 90003 90002 Due to this difference, a dental amalgam filling may make a better, or at least more predictable, choice for people who have an active decay rate. 90003 90004 D) How visible is the filling? 90005 90004 White vs. silver. 90005 90002 Dental composite comes in a range of tooth-colored shades, whereas dental amalgam is silver. 90003 90002 There is no question that most patients much prefer white fillings. And in situations where either type of restoration could suffice, its color is often the deciding factor.90003 90002 This amalgam filling shows prominently. 90003 90002 As an added disadvantage, it has caused staining of its tooth (the grey halo around the restoration). 90003 90004 Silver fillings tend to stain teeth. 90005 90002 Besides just being visible, there are other ways an amalgam filling might cause a cosmetic concern. 90003 90071 90072 The tint of the metal is frequently visible through the tooth structure that surrounds it. 90073 90074 90072 This effect may become more pronounced over time as the restoration ages.90074 90077 90002 With many back teeth, this may not be much of a concern. But it certainly can be an issue with upper and lower premolars (bicuspids) and even some upper molars. 90003 90004 E) Does the patient want to avoid the use of amalgam? 90005 90004 Concerns about mercury. 90005 90002 One of the components of dental amalgam is mercury. And over the past few decades, there has been some debate (more so in the popular press than in dental literature) as to its ill effects on a person's health.90003 90002 In defense of amalgam, we would like to bring to your attention that it has been in widespread use in dentistry for more than 150 years. And during this time period, literally billions of amalgam fillings have been placed. 90003 90002 One would expect that if a significant problem did exist that by now there would be a substantial amount of research documenting it. To the contrary however, there is not. 90003 90004 Organizations that support the use of dental amalgam. 90005 90002 Several national and international health organizations (U.S. Public Health Service, The American Dental Association, Food and Drug Administration, World Health Organization, FDI World Dental Federation) have gone on record as stating that they have reviewed the scientific literature and see no health concerns. 90003 90002 Despite this, there are people who have decided that they do not want to have their teeth restored with dental amalgam. If so, then a composite filling may be their only cost-effective choice. 90003 90004 F) Metal allergies. 90005 90002 While rare, people can have an allergic reaction to the metals contained in dental amalgam.So in these cases, a dental composite restoration may be the only reasonable choice. (In dental literature, there are fewer than 100 documented cases of localized allergic reactions associated with the use of dental amalgam.) 90003 90018 90019 Advantages and disadvantages of composite fillings as compared to amalgam ones. 90020 90021 1) Advantages of composite fillings for back teeth. 90022 90004 A) Reduced thermal sensitivity. 90005 90002 Since dental amalgam is a metal, it's a good thermal conductor.And when it's used to make fillings (especially relatively large ones) it's not uncommon that a person will experience some degree of thermal sensitivity with their tooth when it's exposed to hot and cold foods and beverages. 90003 90002 In most cases, this sensitivity will subside as days and weeks pass. But for some people it will persist and be a nuisance, especially when very cold items (like ice cream) are consumed. 90003 90002 Since dental composite is a plastic and therefore a comparatively poor thermal conductor, when it is used as the filling material this issue is much less of a concern.90003 90004 B) Composite fillings can be used immediately. 90005 90002 Once placed, a dental amalgam filling requires several hours of hardening before it is ready to be put into service. 90003 90002 In comparison, a bonded filling is fully cured (set) during its placem 90003.90000 How Long Do Fillings Take for Tooth Cavities? 90001 90002 A filling is one of the most common dental procedures. It's basically a repair job to fix the damage done by tooth decay. It's typically a painless procedure and generally takes about an hour. 90003 90002 Cavities are common in the United States. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 92 percent of U.S. adults ages 20 to 64 have had a cavity. A filling helps prevent further decay and allows your tooth to function normally.90003 90002 Keep reading to learn more about what to expect if you need a filling, the materials that are most commonly used, and how long it takes for a filling to set and heal. 90003 90002 Fillings are generally a simple procedure. To start, your dentist will examine your mouth and use dental instruments to check the cavity. They may take an X-ray of the tooth or teeth to see the extent of tooth decay. 90003 90002 You'll have a local anesthetic to numb the tooth area. This will help prevent any pain.You may not need an anesthetic if the filling is just on the tooth surface. 90003 90002 Once the area is numb, your dentist will most likely use a dental drill to drill through the tooth enamel to remove the decay. Some dentists may use a laser or an air abrasion tool, but these techniques are less common. 90003 90002 Next, your dentist will sterilize and prepare the area for the filling and then fill the hole. Some types of fillings are hardened, or cured, with a blue wavelength light. 90003 90002 Finally, your dentist will polish the tooth and check to make sure that your bite is correct.90003 90002 Once the numbing has worn off, your tooth may feel a little sore or sensitive after the filling, but you should not have any pain. You should avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks for a day or two, but for the most part, you can eat normally. 90003 90002 In general, a filling takes an hour or less. A simple filling may take as little as 20 minutes. A larger filling or multiple fillings can take longer. 90003 90002 Also, depending on the materials used for the filling, it could take longer, or require a second visit.For instance: 90003 90024 90025 Composite resin material that's layered into your tooth takes more time, but it's completed in one visit. 90026 90025 Some composite fillings may be made from an impression and require a second visit to bond the filling. 90026 90025 Gold or porcelain fillings, also called inlays or onlays, usually can not be done in one sitting. In the first visit, the cavity will be removed and an impression will be made of your tooth, which is sent to a lab to fabricate the filling.In the next visit, the filling is bonded to your tooth. 90026 90031 90002 Replacing an older filling takes about the same amount of time as the original filling or slightly longer if the old filling material has to be drilled out. The cavity and old filling material are cleaned out and new filling material inserted. 90003 90002 Your dentist will discuss the various materials that can be used to fill your cavity. Some of the most widely used options include the following materials: 90003 90024 90025 90038 Silver-color fillings.90039 These are metal amalgams - a combination of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This material is more durable than tooth-color fillings and generally more affordable than other materials. Some people may have concerns about the mercury content, but experts have found no clinical evidence that amalgam fillings are harmful, though they are being phased out. 90026 90025 90038 White tooth-color fillings 90039 90038 (composites). 90039 These are a mix of glass or quartz particles and acrylic resin.This material is durable and costs a little more than metal amalgams. 90026 90025 90038 Gold fillings. 90039 This mix of gold, copper, and other metals is very durable but more expensive. They're also not natural looking. Gold fillings are usually made in a lab after the dentist takes an impression of your tooth. 90026 90025 90038 Glass ionomer fillings. 90039 These are also tooth-colored but not as strong as composites. They're made of acrylic and a type of glass that contains fluoride which can help prevent cavities.They're often used for children's teeth and are more expensive than amalgams. 90026 90025 90038 Porcelain fillings. 90039 These, while about as expensive as gold fillings, look natural. They're made in a lab after the dentist takes an impression of your tooth. 90026 90031 90002 According to Kenneth Rothschild, DDS, who has 40 years of experience as a general dentist, composite plastics have been used with more success over the last few decades because of their greater strength, better color varieties, and superior expected longevity.90003 90002 "Composites may be used not only for fillings placed in more aesthetically sensitive front areas but also on posterior teeth, such as molars and bicuspids," he explained. 90003 90002 How long your filling will take to set depends on the material your dentist uses. 90003 90002 According to Rothschild, amalgam fillings set weakly in 1 hour and are at full strength in about 24 hours. With this type of filling, it's best to avoid eating hard foods until the filling has completely set.90003 90002 Composite fillings and glass ionomer fillings are usually light cured. They are set in 1 to 2 millimeter thick layers, Rothschild said, taking about 2 to 20 seconds per layer. 90003 90002 Ceramic fillings set immediately, with the aid of the dentist's blue wavelength light. "It's already milled or fired, and the bonding adhesive that holds it in place is cured in seconds," Rothschild explained. 90003 90002 Most fillings heal quickly with no problem. After the anesthetic wears off, your tooth may feel a little sensitive, but this usually goes away in a day or so.90003 90002 "Metal fillings, like amalgam and gold, occasionally have a period of post-op cold sensitivity for a few days or even weeks," Rothschild said. "This is less likely but still possible with a bonded composite or glass ionomer filling." 90003 90002 You can reduce tooth sensitivity by: 90003 90024 90025 chewing on the other side of your mouth for a couple of days 90026 90025 brushing and flossing more gently than usual around the filling 90026 90025 avoiding hot or cold food or drinks 90026 90025 avoiding acidic foods 90026 90025 using a desensitizing toothpaste 90026 90025 taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) 90026 90031 90002 Let your dentist know if your bite feels off, or if you have any long-lasting pain or sensitivity.Your dentist may need to adjust the filling surface to improve your bite. 90003 90002 How long your filling lasts depends, in part, on your dental hygiene. Diligent dental care can extend the life of your filling and prevent a new cavity from forming on your tooth. The lifetime of a filling can also vary depending on the materials used. 90003 90002 Remember that everyone's teeth and lifestyle are different, so these timeframes can vary from person to person. In general: 90003 90024 90025 amalgam fillings last 5 to 25 years 90026 90025 composite fillings last 5 to 15 years 90026 90025 gold fillings last 15 to 20 years 90026 90031 90002 If you see your dentist for regular checkups, they'll find cavities early.The sooner a cavity is treated, the better the outcome for your tooth, and the less invasive the treatment is likely to be. So it's a good investment to get regular dental checkups. 90003 90002 Usually, there are some warning signs of a cavity, such as: 90003 90024 90025 teeth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks 90026 90025 sensitivity to sugary foods and drinks 90026 90025 ongoing ache in a tooth 90026 90025 a hole or pit in a tooth 90026 90025 a tooth stain, either white or a darker color 90026 90031 90002 If you suspect you may have a cavity, make sure to visit your dentist.They can determine whether you need a filling or other treatment. 90003 90002 Dental fillings are very common and typically are not painful. The procedure usually takes about an hour for a standard, uncomplicated filling. 90003 90002 Ask your dentist about the pros and cons of possible filling materials for your tooth. They can also let you know the best way to care for your filling. 90003 90002 If you have dental insurance, check to find out what types of fillings are covered. Your insurance may not cover more expensive materials.90003 90002 With diligent dental hygiene, you can expect your fillings to last for many years. 90003.90000 Dental crown vs big filling. Factors to consider when choosing. 90001 90002 Can a cavity be too big to fill? Examples of large (risky) fillings. | How crowns strengthen teeth. | Situations where placing a filling makes a suitable, possibly preferred, choice. 90003 90004 Crowns vs. Fillings 90005 90002 You may find yourself in the situation where your tooth needs to be rebuilt. And your dentist says that either a dental crown or a filling might be placed. If so, the question that seems to run through many people's mind is: 90003 90008 90009 Does choosing crown placement... the repair that costs more (vs. a filling) ... and takes more appointment time (usually two visits vs. just one) ... really make the better choice? 90010 90011 90002 As an aid in making this decision, this page outlines important differences between these two options, primarily from the standpoint of the health outlook for your tooth. It explains situations when choosing one rather than the other might result in a significant negative event, with fracture being a primary concern. 90003 90014 To get the full picture... 90015 90002 Admittedly, there are other factors that you will want to consider. 90003 90002 And as alluded above, these include cost and simplicity of placement. There is also the issue of restoration longevity (crowns tend to last longer but a filling can provide reasonable service too, if placed for appropriate applications like discussed on this page). 90003 90002 For information about these additional topics, just follow the links above. 90003 90022 90004 Choosing between dental crown and filling placement.- Factors to consider. 90005 90025 a) Does the tooth require strengthening? 90026 90002 One of the biggest differences between a dental filling and a crown is the greater level of protection that the latter provides. 90003 90008 90009 Crowns strengthen teeth. - One of the hallmark characteristics of a dental crown is the way that it reinforces and strengthens a tooth. This is due to the way it cups over and encases it. 90002 The crown literally acts as a rigid splint that holds the tooth together.And that means that once one has been placed, the tooth can withstand a greater level of chewing forces without risk of damage. 90003 90010 90011 90002 90003 90002 Of course, if your tooth does not really require strengthening, then placing a crown is overkill. And in fact, doing so makes a poor choice for your tooth. 90003 90004 Background - 90005 90002 Actually, you can not have a valid discussion about crowns vs. fillings, without first describing the size of the filling that's planned.90003 90014 1) With small fillings, there's usually no concern about tooth strength. 90015 90002 For small repairs, placing a filling makes the right choice. 90003 90002 The ideal situation for placing a filling is one where it's used to repair a relatively minor amount of tooth damage, such as a small cavity. 90003 90002 In this situation, even after the preparation (hole) for the filling has been drilled, the tooth remains relatively whole and intact. And because it still retains the bulk of its structural integrity, it can be expected to still be able to withstand the chewing forces it's exposed to well.90003 90014 With this situation, placing a filling (vs. a crown) is actually the superior choice. 90015 90002 In cases where only a minor amount of repair is needed, placing a crown instead of a filling can actually be detrimental to the tooth. That's because: 90003 90002 90003 90002 Of course, these events do not occur in all cases. But the potential for them is great enough that placing a crown is not justifiable if a simpler type of restoration can satisfy the tooth's needs. 90003 90014 2) How larger fillings frequently leave a tooth at risk.90015 90002 Large dental fillings can leave a tooth vulnerable to fracture. 90003 90002 In situations where a relatively greater amount of tooth structure has been lost, damaged or needs to be trimmed away when decay is removed, the tooth's picture is likely different than above. 90003 90002 In these cases, the overall structural integrity of the tooth may have been compromised, possibly significantly so, and to the point where it is at risk of fracture. 90003 90014 An analogy. 90015 90002 The structural integrity issue we're discussing here is a little like what you find with an eggshell.90003 90008 90009 If you take a raw egg and you want to break it open, it really takes a pretty firm rap. That's because an eggshell, as an intact unit, is a surprisingly strong object. 90010 90009 Now, in comparison, say you've broken the egg open and the two halves of the empty shell are lying on their sides. In this condition, it's a simple feat to crush each piece flat. 90075 90010 90009 That's because the shell's structural integrity has been compromised. It's no longer an intact unit that's capable of withstanding forces well.90010 90011 90002 90003 90002 How filling preparation size affects tooth strength. 90003 90002 The numbers shown are the reduction in tooth stiffness (a measure of to 90003.