The concept of do-it-yourself tooth fillings may seem attractive due to their perceived affordability and convenience. Some individuals may opt for temporary filling materials such as zinc oxide or products available in drug stores in the hope of achieving a permanent tooth-filling experience. However, is this a practical solution?
While it may seem like an attractive option to skip a dental appointment, there are several reasons why choosing a temporary filling kit could be a bad idea. Here are a few reasons why you should visit a dentist to take care of your filling and why doing your own filling is not recommended.
Here are several reasons why relying on a DIY tooth filling kit is more likely to result in complications than opting for a permanent solution.
Improper at-home procedures can cause significant harm to tooth structure and even tooth loss. A temporary fix without guidance from a dental professional can lead to future complications such as cavities and other dental decay.
Dental materials are specifically designed to promote oral health and protect the tooth surface. Over-the-counter filling kits and homemade alternatives can be harmful and fail to provide a permanent solution against tooth decay or root canal infections.
One of the most important steps in dental treatment is the diagnosis. It can only be done accurately by a dental professional who uses specialized tools during the examination and treatment. Filling a cavity without knowing the extent of decay or possible complications like gum disease can worsen the problem.
One of the main issues with at-home tooth filling kits is that they don’t address the underlying decay. Proper dental care involves completely removing the decayed areas before filling the tooth. Without this essential step, temporary fillings applied at home only cover up the problem without addressing the cause of the issue. As the decay continues to spread beneath the filling, it could lead to severe dental problems that might require more complicated treatments.
In addition, the material used by dentists for dental fillings is different from those in temporary fillings. Dentists use a material that tightly bonds with the inner surface of the tooth, preventing any food or liquids from entering the filled cavity. Using makeshift filling material without proper technique exposes the tooth to potential risks, which might require a root canal procedure or even result in tooth loss.
How your teeth fit together is a crucial aspect of your oral health. The peaks and dips, as well as the contours of your teeth, play a vital role in how your teeth align when you close your mouth. If a filling is not matched correctly to these contours, it can cause your teeth to sit improperly, leading to potential problems. Attempting to apply DIY fillings may cause changes to your teeth’s surface, affecting your bite, leading to jaw discomfort, difficulty in chewing, and other complications that may require orthodontic treatment or further dental work to correct.
Temporary tooth filling kits are not a long-term solution for tooth decay. Although they provide a quick fix, these fillings do not bond with the tooth enamel as well as professionally applied fillings do. As a result, they can fall out easily, exposing your tooth to additional bacteria and decay. This can cause severe pain and may even lead to the need for a root canal.
One of the most important functions of a dental filling is to seal the tooth against bacteria and food particles, preventing further decay. However, temporary fillings often fail to achieve this seal, which leaves your tooth vulnerable to harmful bacteria.
When a dentist cleans and fills a tooth, the seal formed by the filling is crucial in protecting the inner parts of your tooth from bacteria and food debris. Unfortunately, temporary materials from DIY kits often fail to seal properly, allowing bacteria to invade the tooth and cause further decay. This can eventually result in severe tooth damage or infection, which may require extensive dental treatment. It’s always best to consult a dentist for a permanent solution to tooth decay.
It is not recommended to use an at-home tooth filling kit as it may result in discomfort or severe pain while eating or chewing. When chewing on a temporary filling, the pressure can irritate the sensitive dentin layer, causing pain. In addition, if fluids seep beneath the filling, it may trigger sensitivity and pain, especially in response to temperature changes. Furthermore, if the temporary filling changes your bite, you may experience discomfort while chewing, which increases the risk of damaging the tooth, such as cracking or chipping, especially when biting into something hard.
It’s important to remember that only a dental professional with the right skills and expertise can accurately diagnose and address any issues with your oral health. They use diagnostic tools to assess your overall health, not just the surface of your teeth. Attempting to fix a cavity with a DIY kit will not provide a lasting solution.
Dentists use dental tools to place fillings, which are generally made of composite or silver materials and designed to integrate with the original tooth, making them durable enough to withstand everyday use. Additionally, dentists ensure that the bonding material used to attach the filling to the tooth seals it, protecting it from further enamel damage.
Instead of reaching for a temporary tooth filling kit, focus on preventive measures for maintaining oral health. Regular brushing, avoiding sugary and starchy foods, and chewing sugar-free gum can help. Keep hydrated to prevent dry mouth, a contributor to tooth decay.
Avoiding cavities and the need for fillings largely consists of maintaining good oral hygiene practices and making lifestyle choices that minimize the risk of tooth decay. Here are some effective strategies:
Signs of a dental cavity include:
A dentist places a filling through the following steps:
While minor tooth decay and sensitivity can sometimes be managed with home remedies and improved dental care, actually trying to treat a cavity at home is not recommended. Cavities require professional assessment to determine the extent of decay and the appropriate treatment. Without professional dentistry intervention, there’s a high likelihood of inadequate treatment, which can lead to further decay, infection, and even necessitate a root canal treatment or lead
At-home tooth cavity fillings might seem convenient and cost-effective, but they are not a long-term remedy and carry significant risks. Therefore, it is essential to seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider and consider proper home care to maintain dental health. Remember, your smile deserves the best care, not a quick fix.
If you think you need a filling and are looking for a dentist in the Fairview Allen area, contact Sloan Creek Dental to schedule a consultation online or call 972-468-1440. Our dental office is located in Fairview, Texas, and our patients visit us from across the surrounding areas, including Allen, Plano, McKinney, and Lucas.
