When is it appropriate to fill a cavity?

Although cavities in teeth need not be treated as an emergency, (unless associated with an abscess), they should be filled as early as possible since, decay is a slow progressive process and without many symptoms until the tooth is grossly destroyed. Sometimes even a small spot may show massive destruction below it. Treating the decay at the intial stage helps conserve tooth structure.

Can any dentist do all types of fillings?

Any dentist can do routine fillings. Badly decayed teeth and some root canal treatment are better handled by a dentist specialised in restorative dentistry and endodontics.

What is a temporary filling?

If the dental decay is close to the pulp a medicated layer of filling is placed over the affected area and a temporary filling is done. Once the pulp heals the temporary restoration is removed and a permanent filling is done. Permanent fillings can be made of various different materials such as silver amalgam or white composite fillings.

What is a permanent filling?

While temporary fillings are meant to last a few months only the permanent fillings last longer. Well made permanent fillings can last decades if not a life time. Permanent fillings can be made of various different materials such as silver amalgam or white composite fillings.

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