A cavity is a hole in your tooth that can be caused by decay. Decay happens when plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth and break down the enamel. cavities are permanent damage to your teeth and can only be fixed with a filling.
Most cavities take months or even years to form. The time it takes for a cavity to form depends on how much sugar you eat, how often you brush your teeth, and how well you take care of your teeth.
If you think you might have a cavity, see your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you get a filling, the less damage will be done to your tooth.
What causes cavities?
When it comes to cavities, there are two main culprits: plaque and bacteria. Plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth. It’s made up of food debris, saliva, and the bacteria that live in your mouth. When plaque isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar is much harder to remove than plaque and can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
Bacteria are single-celled organisms that live in your mouth. Some types of bacteria are good for your oral health, while others can cause cavities. The bacteria that cause cavities feed on the sugars in the food you eat. As they eat, they produce acids that break down tooth enamel. This process is called demineralization and it leads to cavities.
How can you prevent cavities?
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, but they are also one of the easiest to prevent. There are a few simple steps you can take to keep your teeth healthy and avoid cavities.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste. Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the backs of your molars.
Floss your teeth every day to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gumline which your toothbrush can’t reach. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums and can lead to cavities if not removed.
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
How long does it take to fill a cavity?
When you come to the question that how long does it take to fill a cavity the answer depends on the size and location of the cavity, as well as the type of filling material used. Usually it takes anywhere from one to two hours to fill a cavity. The procedure is not overly complicated, but it does take some time. First, the dentist will clean out the cavity, which involves removing any decay and bacteria. Next, they will fill the cavity with a material that will restore the tooth to its original shape and function. Finally, they will seal the filling in place to prevent future decay.
The different types of fillings
There are several types of tooth fillings that your dentist may recommend, depending on the location and severity of your cavity.
Amalgam fillings, also called silver fillings, are made of a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. They are durable and typically last 10-15 years before needing to be replaced. Amalgam fillings are less expensive than other types of tooth fillings.
Composite fillings, also called white fillings, are made of a plastic and glass mixture. They can be matched to the color of your natural teeth and are less visible than amalgam fillings. Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years before needing to be replaced.
Gold foil fillings are made of gold leaf that is pressed into place.
Cost of cavity filling
Cavity fillings are a common dental procedure that can be done to restore a tooth to its original function and shape. The cost of cavity filling will depend on the size and location of the cavity, as well as the type of filling material used. There are many different types of filling materials available on the market today, ranging from gold and silver amalgam to tooth-colored composite resin. The most common type of filling used today is composite resin, which can match the color of your natural teeth and is less expensive than other options.
The average cost of a cavity filling is $125-$200 per tooth. However, if you have insurance, your insurer may cover a portion of the cost (usually 50-80%). It’s always best to check with your insurance provider before getting any dental work done to see what is covered under your plan.
Conclusion
A filling is a common dental procedure that is used to restore a tooth to its original function and shape. The length of time it takes to fill a cavity depends on the size and location of the cavity, as well as the type of filling material used. In most cases, a filling can be completed in one visit to the dentist.
The first step in getting a filling is for the dentist to clean out the cavity. This involves removing all of the decay from the tooth. Once the tooth is clean, the dentist will then fill the cavity with the chosen material.
The type of filling material used will determine how long it takes to fill the cavity. For example, amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals and take longer to place than composite fillings, which are made from plastic and resin.
Published on August 30, 2022 and Last Updated on August 30, 2022 by: Mayank Pandey
