Dental Fillings Overview by Dr. Noor Al Mortadi

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of dental fillings?

To prevent bad breath

To improve the aesthetic appearance of gums

To restore a decayed tooth's normal function and shape (correct)

To whiten teeth

When is a dental filling added to a tooth?

When the pulp is vital and unexposed (correct)

When the pulp is exposed or dead

When the tooth has no decay

When the tooth is missing

What is one downside of temporary fillings?

They can be used as permanent solutions

They require more time to insert

They do not remain intact for long periods (correct)

They are too hard and difficult to place

Which of the following is NOT an advantage of dental fillings?

Completely eliminates risk of further decay Signup and view all the answers

What is calcium hydroxide typically used for in dental procedures?

For pulp protection against thermal shock Signup and view all the answers

Why might a temporary filling be used before a permanent one?

To serve as a first aid measure Signup and view all the answers

Which factor can limit the options of filling materials for a decayed tooth?

The location and size of the decay Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes permanent fillings from temporary fillings?

Permanent fillings are designed to last longer Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary use of calcium hydroxide in dental procedures?

As a cavity lining Signup and view all the answers

What type of restorations are completed in a single visit?

Direct restorations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of indirect restoration?

Dental amalgam Signup and view all the answers

Which compound is a major component of dental amalgam?

Mercury Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding composite fillings?

They can be self-hardening or light-cured. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major disadvantage of using calcium hydroxide as a cavity lining?

It can only be used as a sublining in deep cavities. Signup and view all the answers

Which category of dental fillings may necessitate two or more dental visits?

Indirect restorations Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of mercury is typically found in dental amalgam?

43% to 54% Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of Dental Filling

Restores decayed teeth to retain normal function and shape.
Involves preparing the tooth by removing decay to create space for the filling material.
Vital pulp allows for direct filling; exposed or dead pulp necessitates root canal therapy prior to filling.

Advantages of Dental Fillings

Restores normal tooth function.
Prevents pain.
Preserves pulp vitality.
For anterior teeth, maintains appearance; for posterior teeth, prevents further caries.

Types of Fillings

No universal best filling; effectiveness varies based on individual cases.
Each filling type has unique advantages, disadvantages, and applications influenced by decay location and size.

Categories of Dental Fillings

Temporary Fillings:
- Used as a short-term solution.
- Not durable; designed for limited time periods.
- Commonly employed for pain relief or when permanent fillings require multiple visits.
Permanent Fillings:
- Two main methods of application:
  - Direct Restorations: Placed in a single visit; includes dental amalgam, glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and most composite fillings.
  - Indirect Restorations: Require multiple visits; includes inlays, onlays, veneers, crowns, and bridges made from various materials. Impression taken for fabricating restorations in a dental laboratory.

Temporary Fillings Uses

Pain relief aid.
Insufficient time for a permanent filling.
Interim protection needed between multiple visits for complex restorations.

Cavity Lining (Calcium Hydroxide)

Protects pulp from thermal shock and chemical irritation.
Composed of Calcium hydroxide powder and liquid.
Non-irritant, suitable for deep cavities, compatible with many materials, but only serves as a sub-lining.

Dental Amalgam

Mixture of metals with mercury constituting 43% to 54%.
Commonly used for posterior teeth; one of the oldest filling materials with over 150 years of history.

Composite (Resin)

Made of acrylic resin and glass-like particles, creates tooth-colored fillings.
Can be self-hardening or cured using blue light.

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Description

This quiz explores the fundamentals of dental fillings, a procedure used to restore decayed teeth. It covers the definition, preparation process, and material choices necessary for effective dental restoration. Perfect for anyone interested in dental health and restorative techniques.