Did I get a permanent filling?
Dear Dentist, my tooth was filled eight months ago but the cement is already out yet I was assured that it is permanent. How can I tell that my tooth is filled with permanent dental cement?
Anonymou
Dear Anonymous, filling a tooth with a cavity (a hole) is one way of preventing further damage, preventing pain or improving its functionality. This kind of treatment varies from individual to individual, or from tooth to tooth.
Usually, the type of filling material depends on how severely the tooth is damaged with decay.
A tooth has three layers, enamel, dentine and pulp. If the decay is still on the enamel, you will not feel any pain before, during or after treatment, and the type of filling material applicable will automatically be a permanent filling.
Previously, one could easily tell a permanent filling material because all dentists used silver amalgam (usually called black cement by patients) which is very distinct from the colour of our teeth.
New types of filling
Currently, the amalgam filling material is being phased out due to its associated life-long health risks and it has been replaced with ceramic composite and glass ionomer.
These are permanent filling materials but they look like the teeth, it is difficult for anyone to know that you have some teeth with filled cavities.
Individuals with cavities at the dentine level may experience sensitivity on taking cold or sweet foods and drinks.
Food may also get stuck in the cavity causing bad breath.
At this level, a dentist can provide a permanent filling material.
However, a small layer of temporary cement below a permanent filling may be required to protect the pulp.
For deep dentinal cavities, a dentist will provide a temporary filling material which is white or cream in colour. This temporary filling material normally lasts four to six weeks. After that, your dentist will refill with permanent dental cement.
Temporary filling material is meant to prepare your pulp for the permanent filling material.
The best time for you to have your tooth filled is when decay is still at the enamel or dentine.
This can be established with regular checkups at the dentist’s office.
Beyond the enamel or dentine, the decay will progress to the pulp and a mere filling will not be appropriate, instead a root canal treatment will be the required treatment.
Therefore, I advise you to seek another appointment with your dentist to have the tooth fixed well.
The writer is a dentist
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