Dental Fillings in Nairobi

One of the most common dental health issues in the world today is tooth decay. It causes deep holes in the tooth, causing pain and discomfort and affects functionality of he affected tooth. Tooth decay can be caused by poor oral hygiene, sugary diets, genetics or cavities and can affect anyone. Fortunately, dental fillings offer a simple, effective, and affordable solution to restore damaged teeth and prevent further decay.

What are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair and restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or minor fractures. When a tooth develops a cavity (a hole caused by tooth decay), the decayed portion is first removed by the dentist. The resulting space is then filled with a biocompatible material to restore the tooth’s structure, function, and aesthetics. Fillings help prevent further decay by sealing off spaces where bacteria can enter and also restore the tooth’s ability to chew and bite properly.

Types of Dental Fillings

Composite resin fillings

Composite resin fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles that can be precisely matched to the natural colour of your teeth. They are applied in layers and hardened with a special curing light, allowing the dentist to shape and sculpt the filling to blend seamlessly with the tooth. Because composite resin bonds directly to the tooth structure, it provides added support and helps preserve more of the natural tooth compared to some other materials.

Pros

Excellent aesthetic appearance due to colour matching
Bonds strongly to the tooth, reinforcing the tooth structure
Can be used to repair chipped or worn teeth, not just cavities
Less drilling needed since it bonds to enamel and dentin
Repairs are relatively easy to perform

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings, commonly referred to as silver fillings, are made from a durable blend of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam has been used for over a century and is known for its strength and longevity. It is especially suitable for large cavities in the back teeth where chewing pressure is greatest. However, their metallic colour makes them more noticeable, which can be a disadvantage for front teeth.

Pros

Very durable and long-lasting (often lasting 10-15 years or more)
Less expensive compared to other filling materials
Strong enough to withstand heavy chewing forces
Less sensitive to moisture during placement than composites
Proven track record of reliability in dentistry

Ceramic fillings

Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain and are custom-made in a dental lab before being bonded to the tooth. They offer exceptional aesthetics, closely mimicking the translucency and colour of natural teeth. Ceramic fillings are highly resistant to staining and wear, making them an excellent choice for patients seeking both beauty and durability.

Pros

Superior aesthetic appeal with natural translucency
Highly resistant to staining and wear
Durable and long-lasting (can last 15 years or more)
Biocompatible and less likely to cause allergic reactions
Good for large restorations where strength and appearance are important

Glass ionomer fillings

Glass ionomer fillings consist of acrylic and a specific type of glass that releases fluoride over time, helping to protect the tooth from further decay. These fillings are often used in areas with less chewing pressure or for paediatric patients because they are easy to apply and gentle on the tooth. However, they tend to be less durable than composites or amalgam.

Pros

Releases fluoride, which helps prevent further decay
Bonds chemically to the tooth, requiring less drilling
Often used in young children or for temporary restorations
Gentle on the tooth structure and suitable for sensitive teeth
Quick and easy to apply

Gold fillings

Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy and are highly durable and long-lasting. They are custom-made in a lab and then cemented onto the tooth. While gold fillings are more expensive and visually noticeable, their strength and longevity make them a preferred choice for some patients, especially in back teeth.

Pros

Extremely durable and can last 20 years or more
Biocompatible with minimal risk of allergic reaction
Resistant to corrosion and wear
Provides a strong, precise fit due to custom fabrication
Well-tolerated by gum tissue

Why you should get a Root Canal Treatment

Dental fillings presents several benefits. It is not just a procedure to preserve your dental health and enhance your smile. it can also change other aspects of your life

Rediscover your smile—visit us at Dean’s Dental Implants and experience the care you deserve!

Health Benefits of Dental Fillings

1. Restores tooth structure

When a tooth is damaged by decay or wear, its natural structure is compromised, making it less effective for chewing and more prone to further breakdown. Dental fillings are used to rebuild the missing or weakened parts of the tooth, restoring its original shape and function. This allows the tooth to continue handling everyday forces like biting and grinding without causing discomfort or additional damage. By reinforcing the structure, fillings also reduce the likelihood of cracks or fractures, which can lead to more serious dental issues.

2. Prevents further decay

One of the most important roles of a dental filling is to stop decay in its tracks. Once the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, the filling seals off the space left behind. This prevents bacteria, food particles, and plaque from accumulating in the cavity, which would otherwise lead to continued decay and potential infection of the tooth pulp. Without intervention, decay can spread deeper into the tooth, causing more pain and requiring more invasive treatments like root canals or even extractions.

3. Preserves natural teeth

Fillings help preserve your natural teeth by addressing small problems before they turn into major ones. Maintaining your natural teeth for as long as possible is ideal for both function and oral health. Unlike prosthetics or implants, natural teeth help preserve bone density in the jaw and maintain the natural alignment of surrounding teeth. By treating decay early with fillings, patients can avoid tooth loss and the complications that come with it, such as shifting teeth, bite misalignment, or costly replacements.

4. Supports oral health

Beyond the individual tooth, dental fillings contribute to your overall oral health. A decayed or broken tooth can harbor bacteria that may affect neighboring teeth and gum tissue. If untreated, this localized issue can lead to gum disease or abscesses. By restoring the tooth with a filling, you help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria, reduce inflammation in the surrounding areas, and support a healthier oral environment overall.

Aesthetic Benefits of Dental Fillings

1. Natural appearance

Modern dental materials, especially composite resins and ceramics, are designed to closely match the colour and texture of your natural teeth. This makes them ideal for use in areas of the mouth that are visible when smiling or talking. Unlike traditional metal (amalgam) fillings, these tooth-colored materials are virtually undetectable, blending seamlessly with your surrounding enamel. This ensures that your smile remains natural-looking, without the metallic shine or discoloration that older filling materials can create.

2. Improved smile confidence

Having visible decay or damaged teeth can affect self-confidence, especially in social or professional situations. Restoring teeth with aesthetically pleasing fillings not only improves the physical appearance of your smile but also gives you the confidence to speak, laugh, and eat without self-consciousness. Patients often report a boost in self-esteem after having visible imperfections corrected, even when the issue was relatively small.

3. Stain resistance

Many high-quality filling materials, such as porcelain and certain advanced composite resins, are designed to resist staining from common culprits like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. This helps maintain the brightness and cleanliness of your smile over time. While they’re not entirely immune to discoloration, these materials hold up far better than untreated enamel or older filling types, meaning your dental work remains attractive and clean-looking for years with proper care.

4. Maintains facial structure and symmetry

When a tooth is damaged or decayed and left untreated, it can lead to gradual structural collapse or tooth loss. This not only affects oral function but can also subtly alter the shape of the face over time. Missing or weakened teeth can cause the cheeks to sink inward or the jawline to lose its definition, especially when multiple teeth are affected. Dental fillings help maintain the full contour of the teeth and support the natural shape of the face by preserving tooth volume and alignment. By restoring damaged teeth early, fillings contribute to a balanced facial appearance and help prevent the premature aging effect that can result from tooth deterioration or loss.

Lifestyle Benefits of Dental Fillings

1. Quick and minimally invasive

One of the most convenient aspects of dental fillings is that they are typically completed in a single appointment and require minimal time in the chair. The procedure is relatively simple: the dentist removes the decayed area, cleans the cavity, and fills it—often in less than an hour. There is little to no recovery time, allowing patients to return to work or normal activities right away. This makes fillings a practical solution for people with busy schedules.

2. Restored comfort

Cavities can cause significant discomfort, including sensitivity to hot or cold, pain while chewing, or a persistent dull ache. Once a filling is placed, these symptoms usually disappear quickly, as the damaged part of the tooth has been removed and sealed off. This restoration of comfort allows patients to eat, drink, and talk normally again without worrying about sharp pain or lingering sensitivity.

3. Durable and long-lasting

Advances in dental materials mean that modern fillings are highly durable. Depending on the material used and where in the mouth the filling is located, they can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years—or even longer with proper oral hygiene. Materials like composite resin and porcelain are strong enough to handle daily wear and tear while maintaining their appearance and functionality over time.

4. Cost-effective prevention

Treating a cavity with a filling is significantly less expensive than delaying treatment until the decay requires more complex procedures like crowns, root canals, or tooth replacements. Fillings provide a cost-effective way to maintain oral health and avoid the financial and physical burden of advanced dental disease. Regular check-ups and timely fillings help patients manage their dental health affordably and efficiently.

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The Root Canal Treatment Process

At Deans Dental Implants, we are committed to guiding you through each step of the root canal treatment process below, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience as we restore your smile, through our amazing and high quality dentistry.

1. Examination and diagnosis

The process begins with a thorough clinical examination. The dentist inspects your teeth visually and may use tools like a dental probe to check for soft spots, roughness, or visible signs of decay. In most cases, dental X-rays are taken to assess the extent of decay and determine how deep it goes—especially if it’s between teeth or beneath the surface. Based on these findings, the dentist confirms whether a filling is the appropriate treatment or if a more advanced procedure (like a root canal) is needed.

2. Patient preparation and anaesthesia

Once a filling is recommended, the dentist will prepare you for the procedure. In most cases, a local anaesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue, ensuring that the procedure is completely pain-free. The numbing process takes a few minutes to become effective. During this time, the dental team may place a rubber dam or cotton rolls to keep the area dry and isolated from saliva.

3. Removal of the tooth decay

After the area is numb, the dentist uses a dental handpiece (drill) or a laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step is done with precision to ensure all decayed tissue is eliminated while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. In some cases, an air abrasion tool or ultrasonic instruments may be used, depending on the dentist’s technology and the nature of the decay.

4. Cleaning and disinfecting the cavity

Once the decay has been fully removed, the now-clean cavity is rinsed and thoroughly disinfected to eliminate any bacteria or debris that could compromise the filling. If the decay was deep and close to the nerve (pulp), the dentist may apply a liner or base—a special material to protect the nerve and minimize post-treatment sensitivity.

5. Filling Placement

Next, the dentist selects the most suitable filling material (composite resin, amalgam, ceramic, etc.) based on the tooth’s location, function, and aesthetic needs. For composite (tooth-coloured) fillings, the material is applied in layers, with each layer being cured (hardened) using a special blue curing light. This layering technique ensures a strong and stable restoration while preserving the natural shape of the tooth. If amalgam or other materials are used, the process may differ slightly but still results in a durable, sealed restoration.

6. Shaping and contouring

After the filling material has been placed and fully cured, the dentist begins shaping it to match the natural contours of your tooth. This involves trimming excess material and sculpting the surface so that it aligns properly with your bite and adjacent teeth. The goal is to restore both the form and function of the tooth to as close to its original state as possible.

7. Polishing the filling

Once the shape is finalized, the dentist polishes the filling using a series of fine abrasives. This smooths out the surface, improves comfort, and enhances the appearance of the restoration. A well-polished filling resists staining, mimics the sheen of natural enamel, and feels comfortable when you bite or run your tongue over it.

8. Final bite check and adjustments

Before the procedure is complete, the dentist checks your bite by having you close your mouth and gently grind or tap your teeth on a piece of articulating paper (which marks high spots). If any areas of the filling are too high or interfere with your natural bite, they are adjusted and re-polished. Ensuring proper bite alignment is crucial to prevent future discomfort or uneven wear.

9. Post-Procedure Instructions

The dentist will provide guidance on what to expect after the procedure. If local anesthesia was used, your mouth may remain numb for a few hours. You’ll be advised to avoid chewing on the filled side until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting. Patients are also given tips on maintaining oral hygiene, avoiding hard or sticky foods for a short period, and managing any mild sensitivity that may occur over the next few days.

Dental Fillings are Ideal for:

People with cavities or tooth decay
Individuals with chipped or cracked teeth
Patients with worn-down teeth due to grinding or acid erosion
Those experiencing tooth sensitivity from minor enamel damage
People needing to replace old or damaged fillings
Children or adults with early-stage decay that hasn’t reached the tooth pulp
Anyone looking for a cosmetic repair of small defects (e.g., small gaps or misshapen teeth)

Dental Fillings are NOT Ideal for:

People with severe tooth decay that has reached the nerve or pulp (may need a root canal or extraction)
Individuals with extensive tooth damage or fractures that cannot be restored with a filling (may need a crown)
Patients with very large cavities that compromise tooth structure (crowns are often more appropriate)
People with active gum disease or severe infection (requires treatment before a filling)
Individuals with allergies to certain filling materials (e.g., metal or composite components)
Children or adults who cannot sit still or tolerate dental procedures without sedation (may need specialized care)