Nuffield Dental Articles

Expert Tips on Emergency Dentist Fillings

Written by Dr. Samintharaj Kumar | May 26, 2018 10:44:00 AM

Treating a cavity involves removing the decayed part of the tooth and filling the hollow cavity with a filling material. Fillings are also required to repair cracked or broken teeth, as well as teeth that have worn down due to certain habits such as tooth grinding or nail-biting.  

Getting a filling can seem like a daunting task, but the following tips can help: 

  • Discuss it with your dentist. If you have any pain or discomfort, we recommend speaking about it with your dentist beforehand. Visit your dentist every six months, and try to discuss any potential problems that need to be addressed. 
  • Ask a friend or family member to come along. Driving after receiving anaesthesia for your filling procedure might not be possible. Hence, you should ask someone to accompany you to the dentist’s clinic or pick you up after the procedure. Going all by yourself can be scary, hence asking for help beforehand is a good idea. 
  • Plan your meals the night earlier. Your mouth might feel a bit numb for a day or two after getting your filling. However, you’ll still need to eat soft, lukewarm foods for energy that can be eaten without harming your novel filling/s. 

What Type of Fillings Were Used in the Past?

Most dentists used mercury fillings in the past, which, although safe, required drilling of the tooth to create a shallow for the mercury to be filled in. Even though it’s now outdated, there are dentists today who use these fillings simply because of how strong they are. They are considered a suitable option for back teeth. 

If you come to visit our emergency dentist at Kovan, it’s probably due to a dental emergency or mishap. Be it a lost tooth or a chipped one; you can be assured of receiving appropriate treatment that takes care of it in a compassionate manner. 

What Type of Fillings Are Used Now?

Nowadays, different filling compositions are available, which can be either white or translucent, which makes them look just like a real tooth. Dentists now use a selection of different materials to put together these fillings, such as gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (which comprises mercury mixed with silver, tin, zinc, and copper), tooth-coloured, plastic, and composite resin. Even glass ionomer, which contains glass particles, is used in a similar manner to composite resin fillings. 

The dental profession requires inventive and innovative ways to meet the needs of its clients. After all, everyone wants a beautiful smile that lasts them a lifetime. 

Innovations in Dentistry

Are you scared of visiting the dentist? The newest innovations can help you get rid of your anxiety. For instance, laser dentistry has been around for twenty years, and novel innovations have made it completely pain-free. Dentists can utilise such powerful tools to drill spots for fillings.  

Nowadays, dental professionals can find the right solution to fix your issues with suitable dental treatments. Bring your family to our emergency dental services facility (located near Kovan MRT) to ensure that each member receives the oral health care they require!