Filling
What
kind of treatment is a filling?
A filling is a tooth-coloured plastic material, also called composite. The composite is bonded to the tooth, so it looks good and lasts for years.
During the treatment, the tooth is usually numbed, so you don't feel anything. At VLIJT dentists we use a dental dam to keep the tooth dry, which improves the quality of the filling. Only the damaged part of the tooth is cleaned and repaired. Afterwards, the tooth is polished and checked. Sensitivity after the treatment is normal and usually disappears quickly. The tooth is ready for normal use immediately.
Sign UpWhy
a treatment for a filling?
In the case of a cavity, the dentist assesses whether a tooth needs a filling.
2. A tooth can be repaired after wear or breakage.
3. A filling can repair a tooth and make it look better. If a front tooth is improved with composite, this is called a facing.
4. After an accident, a tooth can be restored to protect the nerve and restore its shape.
The VLIJT
approach
When placing a filling, we follow the following steps:
Diagnosis
your dentist examines the tooth to assess the damage, often in combination with x-rays.
Anaesthesia
we numb the area around the tooth with local anaesthesia.
Removal of tooth decay
We remove affected tooth tissue, which provides a clean and solid base for the filling.
Preparing the tooth
the tooth is isolated with a dental dam to work moisture-free.
Cleaning
The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria, dirt and tooth decay, often with a sandblaster.
Placing the composite filling
- Etching: an acid etching agent is applied to the tooth to create microscopic pores for better adhesion.
- Bonding agent: a liquid adhesive is applied and hardened with a special light, which makes it bond together tightly.
- Composite material: the composite is applied in layers and each layer is hardened separately with blue LED light, until the cavity is completely filled and the desired shape is achieved.
Finishing
Your dentist shapes and polishes the filling so that it fits perfectly in your bite and it looks natural. If necessary, the dentist makes further adjustments.
Aftercare
We will give you instructions on how to care for your new filling and what to do in case of pain or sensitivity after the anesthesia has worn off. Fillings help to restore the tooth and protect it from further damage. It is important to continue to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups to keep the fillings and the rest of your teeth in good condition.