Fillings/Composite Veneers
Early stages of tooth decay often have no symptoms, making regular dental check ups vitally important.
The earlier tooth decay is detected, the less complex and expensive it is to fix. Symptoms of tooth decay in later stages can include discomfort biting, temperature sensitivity, toothache and noticing a roughness or sharpness to the tooth (this is often more noticeable with the tongue). A filling is often done under local anaesthetic. The dentist will remove all decay from the tooth and shape it to fit the filling.
The filling will either be a silver filling or a white filling. Silver fillings are alloys of several metals.
Historically, silver fillings and gold restorations were the most common type of fillings. White fillings are a more modern restoration method and have a natural appearance, allowing them to blend in seamlessly with the tooth being repaired.
Once a white filling has been placed on the tooth, it is hardened by shining an intense light on it for around 40 seconds. Safety glasses provided to all dental patients protect the patient’s eyes from the intense light and patients are advised not to look directly in the light. The filling will take around two weeks to completely harden and the patient should avoid chewing on it for the first 24 hours.
While some initial temperature sensitivity can last for up to one week, patients should contact the dentist if the sensitivity continues beyond this or if there is a prolonged discomfort chewing.
