Dental sealants and fillings are both important treatments that protect your teeth from decay. Sealants are a preventive measure applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to help prevent cavities. In contrast, fillings are a restorative treatment used to fill cavities that have already formed.
Dental sealants
What are they: A thin layer applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent decay.
How they work: Create a barrier that prevents bacteria and food particles from contacting tooth enamel.
Benefits: An easy, affordable, and effective method to prevent cavities.
Who might benefit: Individuals who are more susceptible to dental decay due to factors such as diet, genetics, or lifestyle.
Dental fillings
What they are: A restorative treatment that involves filling a cavity with a tooth coloured material.
Procedure: The dentist will prepare the tooth and necessary surrounding areas to restore the tooth. The decay or damage is removed and the area is cleansed to remove bacteria or debris before it is “filled” with the filling materials.
Why do dental fillings fall out?
Dental fillings may come loose due to decay around the dental filling or if you have bitten on something too hard. Make an appointment with a dentist to determine the best treatment option.
Deep fillings:
Sometimes the decay is deep and close to the nerve. It is not uncommon to experience some sensitivity after a filling. However, if the sensitivity intensifies or does not settle in a few days, it could be a sign of nerve irritation. Irritated nerves can result in inflammation which can cause pain. However, irritated nerves from deep fillings may heal over time.
Pulpitis may also occur after a deep filling where the decay was close to the nerve. Teeth that had multiple fillings done or suffered a trauma may also experience pulpitis which is the inflammation of the nerve.
Can pulpitis be treated?
If the nerve inflammation is advanced, the toothache will be quite severe. In order to save the tooth, you will likely need to do a root canal procedure. We recommend arranging a checkup with our team at Tooth Angels to assess and advise you on the treatment options.
Contact us by phone or WhatsApp to schedule your appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!