The best material for tooth filling. How and how teeth are filled: light (photopolymer), chemical and other types of fillings in dentistry

IN therapeutic dentistry are used different kinds fillings that differ in their composition and purpose. When choosing consumables for the final filling, the doctor pays attention to the location of the tooth - aesthetics is important for the front tooth, and strength and abrasion resistance are important for the chewing molar.

Types of dental fillings

There are two main types of dental fillings:

• temporary;
• permanent.

A temporary filling is placed on a tooth for a short period of time (several days or weeks) and performs protective function in cases where treatment takes place in several stages. For example, in the treatment of deep caries, when the doctor needs to make sure that the tooth cavity is cleaned efficiently, during prosthetics to create an antimicrobial barrier.

Prices for dental fillings

The quality of the material for a dental filling is a determining factor not only for filling technology, but also for the cost of the procedure:

• cement - about 500 rubles;
• light - in the range from 1500-3000 rubles;
• glass ionomer - 1000-1500 rubles;
• ceramic - 15-16 thousand rubles.

It should be noted that before filling a series of preparatory procedures(mechanical and medicinal treatment, caries treatment), so the final cost of the service will be higher.

Guarantee for tooth filling:

• cement - 1.5 months;
• light - 8 months;
• glass ionomer - 6 months;
• ceramic - one year.

These terms can be increased or decreased depending on the type and manufacturer of the material, the presence of individual structural features of the teeth, and the extent of damage to the crown.

Seal installation procedure

The filling procedure takes place in several stages:

The final stage - surface grinding - is carried out selectively in cases where it is necessary to correct the shape of the crown.

Features of materials for dental fillings

• Cement fillings perfectly protect against secondary development of caries, but in pure form they quickly collapse. To improve adhesion and strength, various additives are included in their composition.
• Fillings made of light-polymer cements more durable than ordinary ones, moreover, they look natural and aesthetically pleasing. The composition hardens under the influence of a special UV lamp, which is why their second name is light fillings (some of them, for example, the light-curing product Systemp Inlay Ivoclar (Germany), are used exclusively for temporary restoration). These are the best fillings today, as they are highly durable, wide color scheme, low cost). Their service life is 10-15 years.
• Chemically curable compounds. In addition to purely technical properties (sealing the dental cavity), they create preventive and healing effect(contains fluorine). The disadvantage of a chemically cured tooth filling is that it is not resistant to mechanical damage and abrasion, so it is most often used as an auxiliary material when installing a crown.
• Main advantage plastic dental fillings- minimum budget. They have a lot of disadvantages (they wear out quickly, change color over time, peel off from the walls of the dental cavity), so they are practically not used in paid clinics.
• Ceramic filling- an absolute “antagonist” to plastic ones. At its core, this is an ideal filling option, since the structure of ceramics is identical to dental tissue, it is almost impossible to distinguish it visually. The only drawback of this option is the price, which is beyond the reach of the average patient.

Fillings for children and adults

The choice of one material or another depends not only on the nature of the tooth damage, but also on the age of the patient.

For filling children's teeth, they try to use light-curing compounds, not so much for economic reasons, but for psychological ones (to minimize the discomfort from the procedure). For the same purposes, the ability to choose the color of the filling is used.

Children are usually fitted with structures that have a biologically active, non-toxic composition (for example, glass ionomers).

After installation, glass ionomer cements release fluoride, thereby promoting enamel remineralization. However, due to rapid abrasion, they are most often used to seal fissures (grooves between the cusps of teeth).

In adult patients, the range of options is wider, but the factors of individual intolerance are more pronounced (fragility of enamel, allergic reaction to the components of chemically cured compositions).

Complications after placing a filling

If the patient complains that the tooth hurts when pressed, it is too early to talk about the occurrence of complications. The pain usually goes away within a day. Their cause is irritation of dental tissues caused by exposure to mechanical instruments.

If the pain does not subside and is accompanied by an increase in temperature, then you should quickly seek help. Usually the problem is solved by repeated cleaning and filling, sometimes with replacement of the consumable composition (when the inflammation is caused by an allergic reaction).

Today, dentists can offer their patients a variety of filling options that are both effective and affordable. All they have to do is find a clinic and make an appointment.

© Sebastian Kaulitzki / Fotolia

No dental treatment is complete without filling. Today it is one of the most affordable and effective methods restoring the integrity of the crown part of the tooth.

If several decades ago only single types of materials were used for these purposes, today they surprise with their diversity. Materials differ not only in their physical characteristics, but also in cost.

What does the cost depend on?

The cost of dental filling services will depend on several factors:

Kinds

All materials used for dental restoration are divided into two groups according to their temporary purpose: permanent and temporary. Each of them has its own characteristics, differing in composition and purpose.

Temporary

Temporary materials include materials installed for a limited period. The service life of the filling will depend on its composition.

Most often, materials are used that allow fillings to be placed. for 2–5 days. But, such specimens are also used that can remain in the tooth for a long time. 3 or 6 months.

Temporary fillings are used in the treatment of the following diseases:

• pulpitis;
• caries;
• cyst;
• granuloma.

The primary role of a temporary restoration is to create a barrier that prevents saliva, food debris, and bacterial deposits from entering the inflamed pulp cavity or root canal.

They cover medicinal inlays with an anti-inflammatory effect, ensuring the penetration of the medicine into the internal dental tissues. Sometimes their installation is used to diagnose the condition of the pulp after partial extirpation and during the period of prosthetics during the manufacture of dental inlays.

To temporarily close a cavity, the material used must be resistant to moisture and not disintegrate from saliva, ensure tightness and be plastic, and can also be easily removed from the dental cavity.

The following materials meet these requirements:

1. Zinc sulfate cement (artificial dentin). It is a powder consisting of zinc sulfate and zinc oxide, as well as kaolin. This combination of components makes it possible to install a strong filling for up to 3 days. Its cost is approximately 150 rubles.
2. Dentine paste. It is based on artificial dentin in combination with petroleum jelly and glycerin, thereby increasing the plasticity of the material. Its warranty period is at least 7 days. The cost will be approx. 200 rubles.
3. Vinoxol. It is a combined material consisting of calcium, zinc, polystyrene. It has excellent adhesion and does not irritate the pulp chamber tissue.

   Due to its high mechanical strength, the material can remain in the tooth for 6 months. Its price is higher than that of previous options and on average is 400 rubles.

4. Zinc-eugenol cement. It consists of zinc and eugenol, which are mixed immediately before placement in the tooth cavity. The cement hardens within 8 hours, forming an elastic inlay that can be installed for no more than 5 days. The cost in this case will be equal to 120 rubles.
5. Polycarboxylate cement. The material is characterized by high biological compatibility with dental tissues. In addition, it prevents acids and monomers from penetrating inside.

   Used to restore the canals of permanent and baby teeth for up to 3 months. The price of restoration in this case will be within 300 rubles.

Materials are selected individually in each case, depending on the type of dental disease and the age of the patient.

Permanent

Materials that differ from each other act as permanent fillings. increased strength, shock absorption and high aesthetic qualities.

Their main task is to recreate the anatomical shape of the tooth with full color rendition and the most approximate physical characteristics.

The following materials are used as permanent fillings:

Metal

Is the cheapest option, ensuring the strength of the restored area, but characterized by low aesthetics. Most often, amalgam is used to place a filling - an alloy of silver and mercury, which can last more than 10 years.

Today this option is not popular, as it has Negative influence on the oral cavity and requires detailed painstaking work. The cost of installing such a filling will cost approximately 500 rubles. But the price may increase if a more expensive metal is used instead of silver.

Light-curing composite

It is a material based on an adhesive structure. Thanks to this, the material quickly adheres to the dental surface.

It is mainly used for the restoration of chipped parts of the front row of teeth, as it is highly aesthetic. Service life of light-curing fillings from 5 years or more, with average cost from 1500 rubles.

A filling installed under a crown can be inserted for about 600 rubles.

Glass ionomer cement

Unlike the previous version, this material is more durable and resistant to mechanical stress. It tolerates temperature changes well and adheres tightly to various dental surfaces. In addition, it contains fluoride, which remineralizes tooth tissue.

A filling made from it under a crown will cost 1,000 rubles, and restoring part of a tooth will cost from 1,700 rubles. The service life of the glass ionomer is at least 5 years.

Nanocomposites (microhybrids)

Used to restore both front and chewing teeth. The materials are reliable, highly resistant to aggressive environments and mechanical stress. They accurately convey the shade of natural enamel and its natural transparency.

Service life of a restored area made of nanocomposite at least 5 years. Its cost is higher than its predecessors and begins from 2000 rubles.

Seals made from the listed materials can last a guaranteed service life only if the technology for their installation is followed. If the dentist is insufficiently professional, the filling may fall out within a few months, regardless of the cost and modernity of the material.

How to install them - see the following video:

Use in children

Filling in childhood is considered separately, since for temporary teeth it is necessary to select gentle technologies and safe materials that are able to adhere to the surface of the teeth due to mechanical forces.

Meets these requirements zinc eugenol cement, used as temporary fillings. The material does not require a dry environment, which is important in treating the teeth of young children. It hardens even when interacting with saliva.

Mainly used as a permanent filling polycarboxylate cement. The material has an analgesic, aseptic and regenerating effect, as well as a slight sedative effect.

One of the restoration options is light seal, which does not harm tooth and periodontal tissues, but requires good perseverance from the child.

An example of its installation is in the following video:

The cost of filling children's teeth starts from 2500 rubles. The cost of the service includes mandatory injection and treatment of dental tissues on 3 surfaces and their restoration using cement or composite.

If a colored photopolymer was used for filling, the price of the service will increase by 500 rubles or more. When treating pulpitis, the price of filling for each channel will be added to the final cost, which starts from 500 rubles.

Signs of quality

© Tyler Olson/Fotolia

To the main features High Quality fillings include:

• accurate representation of the anatomical shape in compliance with the masticatory tubercles;
• smoothness of the transition, which is not noticeable even with instrumental examination;
• high aesthetic indicators. The filling must have a smooth, glossy surface with a tint and transparency that completely matches the natural part of the enamel;
• increased resistance to chipping and abrasion due to the density of the material;
• uniformity of the filling;
• tight fit to the walls of the formed cavity.

Installation steps

Installation of a seal takes place in several stages, each of which is considered mandatory:

• Stage 1. At the first stage, the carious tooth tissue is polished off.
• Stage 2. If the infection has penetrated into the pulp, then its chamber is opened and expanded, and then the canals are treated.

  In this case, the procedure will cost more than with conventional superficial caries, since the price will include canal filling, which varies from 600 to 1500 rubles.

• Stage 3. Restoration of anatomical shape. This stage will also affect the final cost of the procedure. The price will depend on the volume of material used.

  The more you need, the higher the cost of the service. For example, restoration of 3 sides of a molar begins from 2500 rubles. Restoration of the front incisors can cost 3,000–5,000 rubles.

In addition, depending on the material used, when sealing, you may need a special shock-absorbing pad and other additions, which, although not significant, still affect the cost.

When is pain relief required?

© elainenadiv / Fotolia

As a rule, anesthesia is carried out during any dental procedures. If the impact on dental tissue is minor, application anesthesia is used, which allows you to numb the tooth to a depth of 3 mm.

The cost of one application is about 150 rubles. For more extensive interventions involving the pulp, they resort to infiltration or, the price of which varies from 300 to 1000 rubles, depending on the status of the clinic and the drugs used.

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Filling is common method treatment, which is used during carious lesions or if there are pieces of enamel or dentin chipped from the tooth. During this process, different types of fillings can be used, so you shouldn’t be surprised when the dentist asks the question - What kind of filling will we put in? Types of dental fillings differ in their composition, structure, hardening speed and, of course, strength. Therefore, before rushing to install this or that material, you should think it over carefully and choose the most suitable one.

Probably every person at least once in his life has had to resort to treatment and installation of a filling on a tooth. But rarely does anyone think about what material these products are made of, as well as what types of fillings exist currently. But in vain, knowledge of these features will help you choose the most suitable filling that will last a long time, and sometimes it can completely imitate dental tissue. In addition, it is worth considering that the process of installing a filling is a rather labor-intensive process that requires increased professionalism from the doctor so that the material lasts a long time and does not fall out of the tooth a few days after installation.

Black carious formations provoke pulpitis (nerve inflammation), this occurs as a result of infection entering the tooth cavity where the neurovascular bundle is located. But inflammation of the nerve in the tooth does not develop immediately, but only when the carious cavity becomes deep enough.

In the dental field, a filling refers to a special material that has increased viscosity, but at the same time it hardens quite quickly. Using this material, the doctor fills the area of ​​the tooth that has been cleared of caries or pulpitis. In addition to filling holes, this material is often used to hide damaged enamel or other defects. But it is worth remembering that the more reliable the structure of the filling, the better tooth will perform its natural functions.
Nowadays there is a wide variety of materials that are used for filling teeth. Dentists use metal, plastic, and ceramic bases as fillings; fillings made of different types cement. In addition, they are divided into temporary and permanent fillings.

Types of fillings by service life

If we consider fillings according to their service life, they are divided into temporary and permanent. Permanent products include products that are designed for a long service life. The process of installing this type of filling usually takes a long time. In addition, the base chosen for permanent filling must have high strength, have high aesthetic qualities and meet all safety requirements. But temporary fillings are used only for treatment and are usually installed on short term. Most often, these products are based on various medicinal additives.

Temporary

Temporary products have a second name - diagnostic. This type of filling is often used to identify the main symptoms that will help identify a specific disease.

A temporary filling is a hardening material that is applied to the part of the tooth affected by caries. It is installed for further treatment caries, canal or pulpitis, after removal of the nerve of the tooth.

For example, during caries, not only damage to the enamel structure can be observed, but also to deeper dentin layers, and sometimes even to the pulp of the tooth. If, after the material is installed in the tooth cavity, the patient experiences painful sensations, this will indicate that he has the development of pulpitis. As a result, it is necessary to remove the affected soft tissue. In addition, during pulpitis, a temporary filling acts as a sealing agent; it prevents medication from entering the tooth cavity.

What characteristics should it have?

Temporary fillings must have important characteristics that meet all requirements. These qualities include the following features:

• Reliable degree of tightness and stability medicine during its application to the area under the filling;
• Simple introduction and removal of the substance;
• It is important that upon contact with a tooth, soft tissues, or mucous layer of the oral cavity, there are no allergic reactions and irritation;
• The filling mass must have a rapid degree of hardening.

Permanent

Permanent fillings differ in many ways from temporary fillings. First of all, this type of filling is used for completely different purposes, therefore, the quality of the base for these products has significant differences.

Seal – necessary measure, it serves to isolate sensitive tooth tissues and prevent microbes from entering the resulting cavity.

Permanent filling is used for permanent wear. In addition, it has various purposes:

1. In most cases, permanent products are used to thoroughly and hermetically seal the tooth hole that appeared as a result of cured caries or depulpation. At the same time, the material must protect the tooth from penetration of pathogenic bacteria into its cavity;
2. It is used to provide the tooth structure with natural qualities. Depending on this, the type of material with which you can later bite and chew food is selected;
3. Another final purpose of permanent products is aesthetic functions. If, for example, various types of cement material are used for chewing teeth, which are invisible from the front of the dentition, then a light filling is usually used for the front teeth. At the same time, it is carefully selected to match the natural color of the dental tissue, so that there are no visible differences in the future.

Types of fillings according to materials used

Depending on the material, fillings may vary. Today, there are a large number of types of filling material, which differ in composition, strength, consistency and hardening speed. In addition, a huge variety of fillings allows you to match them to the color of your tooth enamel, which ultimately allows you to return the tooth structure to its original appearance.

Cement based

This type of filling is quite common in dentistry, this is due to high degree adhesion or adhesion of cementitious material. Cement elements have high strength and wear resistance, which can last for a long period.

Cement fillings are a combination of powder and liquid. They are short-lived due to the fragility of the material, but they counteract the formation of repeated caries.

However, this material has one negative quality - cement fillings have a higher density compared to the density of dental tissue. For this reason, after a certain time, wear and tear of the tooth tissue located around the filling is observed. As a result, a vulnerable area is formed along the edges of the filling material, which leads to the appearance of secondary caries.
Several types of compositions are used for cement fillings:

• Phosphate cements. The composition of this material includes almost 90% zinc oxide, as well as magnesium oxide, silica, orthophosphoric acid;
• Mixtures with silicate-containing structure. The composition of these mixtures includes aluminosilicates and phosphoric acid.

It is worth noting that phosphate cement fillings are not used for surface work. They are mainly used to seal canals, placed in the area under the crowns, as well as under the top layer.

But silicate cements are similar in structure and color to bone tissue. This material has a shiny surface and is transparent. By its structure it is sufficient hard material and it is suitable for filling the anterior dentition.
Silicate material is not used for deep fillings because it has a negative effect on the pulp area.

Plastic

Plastic fillings are quite popular in dentistry. This is due to their positive qualities:

• Fast degree of hardening;
• They have a high degree of hardness;
• They have increased strength characteristics;
• The composition of the material is chemically resistant;
• The base of the plastic material does not irritate the tissues of the oral cavity.

Carbondent is the basis for the manufacture of plastic fillings. Dentists rarely use this type of fillings, as they are toxic and not strong enough.

However, this material has one significant negative factor - over time, plastic fillings sag and decrease in size. Man through certain period may notice that the filling becomes smaller over time. This all leads to the gradual destruction of dental tissue.
In addition, plastic materials become stained over time and quickly lose their original color.
Plastic products can be based on two components - acrylic oxide and carbondent.

Important! Plastics containing acrylic oxide have increased strength, but they have several disadvantages. They have increased chemical toxicity and after a certain period cause an inflammatory process in the area under the filling.

Products made from carbondent have a porous structure, and they also have a low degree of toxicity. However, this material has low strength and after a certain period the filling becomes darker than the tooth.

Amalgam

Amalgam filling material has increased quality and durability. This is due to the basis of these products. It is based on an alloy of mercury and metals.

Amalgam filling used to be very popular, but various metal alloys are now practically not used, as they have disadvantages: high thermal conductivity, low aesthetic effect.

Attention! Amalgam products may contain: different types metals and alloys - silver, mercury, zinc, gold, tin. The base of these products has increased ductility and good adhesion.

The strength of this type of material is quite high; the products can last for several decades.
The only negative quality of amalgam fillings is that they have a characteristic metallic color. For this reason, they are used for inconspicuous places.

Ceramics

Fillings made of ceramic material have a number of advantages:

• High hardness and strength;
• Increased wear resistance;
• Do not shrink over time;
• There is no color change over time. Ceramic fillings do not darken, and various stains do not appear on them.

Ceramics are closest in their properties to tooth enamel: strength, color, light reflection. Ceramic inlays are installed where large dental cavities are damaged by caries, but the pulp has not been removed.

A ceramic filling is made in the form of an inlay based on an impression of a disinfected, treated tooth. Due to the fact that the masonry is a similar copy of the tooth structure, during installation the entire load during chewing is evenly distributed. In addition, it adheres quite firmly to the tooth.

Light-curing composites

Filling products that are made from light-hardening composites also have a second name: light. The process of polymerization reactions in the elements that are present in such filling products is carried out as a result of the influence of ultraviolet irradiation. In this case, the healed teeth undergo shrinkage after a certain period. But at first, these materials look just perfect.

Light-curing composites are by far the most modern, beautiful, strong and durable. They have an excellent range of colors that will help you choose the desired color to match the overall color of your teeth.

This type of material is highly polished. Microphiles are used for the anterior molars, while macrophiles are used for the larger posterior molars.
A special material that has a self-hardening base, containing silicon and zirconium particles, is used in the process of restoring the surface of chewing units. But for hard-to-reach areas, composites with a fluid structure are used.

Glass ionomer cement material

A group of materials of this type includes high level fluoride, which ensures the prevention of recurrent carious lesions. This material is an ideal basis for dental treatment in children.

Glass ionomer cement is an excellent insulating lining under the filling, which perfectly prevents the aggressive effect of the filling material on dentin. Glass ionomer cement is used to restore teeth and fill canals.

But this type of filling material has one drawback - high fragility.
Glass ionomer cementitious material can be of two types:

• Self-curing;
• Light-curing.

However, glass ionomer fillings do not always match the natural color of dental tissue. Therefore, after their installation, they often have to be covered with composite materials.

Chemically cured composites

The main component of these filling materials is porcelain. Thanks to this component, high hardening and durability of installed filling products are ensured.
However, this type has one drawback - polymerization shrinkage. But this quality is compensated by additional adhesive preparations. Thanks to the presence of these agents, adhesion to the tissue improves and the recurrence of caries is prevented.

How does the installation work?

In addition to choosing the necessary material for filling a tooth, it is worth knowing the features of installing these products. This process has certain features on which the service life of a particular filling product depends.
Features of installing seals:

1. First of all, an examination of the diseased tooth is carried out and a diagnosis is made. accurate diagnosis lesions, and the area of ​​damage is determined;
2. Next, the tooth is treated special drugs, clean the cavity and surface of the tooth from damaged tissues;
3. Usually, when processing and cleansing, the doctor does local anesthesia using various anesthetics. The choice of anesthetic depends on the strength of action and on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body;
4. During deep lesions, a special pad with calcium is placed, it will speed up the process of relieving the inflammatory process;
5. An insulating gasket is placed under the aesthetic part of the filling material, which is made of high-quality materials with a high degree of adhesion;
6. The next stage is to install the filling material;
7. If material is installed with a light-hardening base, then each layer of the filling product shines.

This photo shows a tooth at the moment of carious destruction, and also shows final result treatment. The doctor performed an examination, anesthesia, cleansing the cavity from affected tissue, installing special medical linings, and aesthetically restoring the appearance of the tooth.

What does the cost depend on?

Everyone probably knows that treatment and installation of a filling is quite expensive. This depends on many factors that the doctor takes into account when determining the total cost. Typically, when treating and installing a filling product, the following important components are used:

• Expensive medicinal materials;
• High-quality filling compounds;
• Use of expensive equipment;
• Highly professional dentist.

Therefore, you should not be surprised that comfortable treatment, infection and filling of teeth will cost a tidy sum. However, the cost may differ each time. Sometimes you can cure a tooth in just one visit, and sometimes several visits may be required, and the cost will vary significantly.
In addition, the cost depends on the stages of treatment. Usually in all dental clinics available standard list stages of treatment, which includes the following services:

1. Initial examination;
2. Cleansing the affected area;
3. Administration of the drug;
4. If the need suddenly arises, an X-ray examination is required, in which a photograph of the tooth roots is taken;
5. Carrying out cleaning and formation of channels;
6. Removal of nerves;
7. Canal filling;
8. Installation of a permanent filling.

The cost of all these services can be found in clinic price lists.
In addition, the cost may vary depending on the type of filling. Fillings made from a composite or luminous material will be much more expensive than simple cement or plastic products.

What is the price

The cost of filling depends on the type of material. Average prices for filling products in Moscow are as follows:

• Installation of composite fillings without the use of tooth treatment and installation of gaskets on average costs from 3,000 rubles;
• The price for fillings made of glass ionomer cement material is from 4,000 rubles;
• A ceramic inlay excluding labor costs from 3,500 rubles;
• A filling made from a metal base costs from 1,500 rubles.

Wherein pediatric treatment teeth and the installation of fillings differs significantly from an adult. The process of installing fillings for children is much faster and costs on average 2,000 rubles.
Removing old filling material will cost from 700 rubles. Installation of isolating and therapeutic (temporary fillings) will cost from 1000 rubles.
The restoration process in the presence of deep lesions depends on many conditions and criteria. Installing a light seal will cost from 5,000 rubles. Pain relief from 500 rubles.
Filling is an important process because it is used for a long period. Therefore it is better to choose high-quality filling, which will last a long period and can fully replace tooth tissue. At the same time, it should not be inconvenient, both physically and aesthetically.

A filling is a medical material that has a certain viscosity and is used to fill a tooth cavity after treatment of carious lesions. Sometimes tooth filling is required after mechanical or traumatic impact. The filling hardens on its own after some time or takes on the required hardness after treatment with special substances.

This treatment method is only suitable for treating small surfaces with caries or pulpitis. If the tooth cavity, cleaned and treated with antiseptics, has a large area, metal-ceramic inlays are used - microprostheses that repeat the anatomical pattern of the tooth. The service life of a filling directly depends on the materials used, so it is important to know what types of dental fillings are most often used in classical dental practice.

Temporary or permanent filling: what determines the choice?

Temporary filling material is placed in the tooth cavity if the patient needs long-term treatment using medications. For example, when depulping a tooth (removing the dental nerve), therapy can take about 2-6 months. After the medicine is placed in the dental canal, the doctor will put a temporary filling on the patient, which after a few weeks will need to be removed, the dental cavity will be re-antiseptically treated and a permanent filling will be installed.

Temporary products are most often made from the following materials:

• Vinoxol (artificial dentin) – powder based on zinc oxide;
• artificial dentin - a homogeneous mass of white or yellow color, obtained by mixing zinc sulfate and zinc oxide with clay materials;
• sympath and other types of special cements.

Temporary fillings are often used to identify hidden pathologies and inflammatory processes in the pulp, tooth root and surrounding soft tissues Therefore, such products are often called diagnostic. They meet all the basic requirements for this type of filling: they harden quickly, securely fix the medicine, preventing it from falling out or moving, and do not come into contact with saliva, food and liquids. Diagnostic fillings are quick and easy to install and remove and very rarely cause allergic reactions. Intolerance to materials used to make temporary fillings occurs in only 0.09% of patients.

Important! If the tooth can be cured in one visit, the doctor will determine dental cavity a permanent filling that will protect the tooth from exposure negative factors and prevent the growth of pathogenic flora in hard tissues. The choice of material depends on the location of the tooth, the treatment being performed, the degree and scope of medical intervention and the financial capabilities of the patient.

What types of fillings are there: what does the patient need to know?

Modern dentistry provides a fairly large selection of filling materials, differing in their characteristics, cost, appearance and other parameters. It is important to note here that most of the new fillings (for example, bioactive glass fillings) are only available in private clinics. If the patient is undergoing treatment under a mandatory health insurance in a state dental clinic, he must be prepared for the fact that standard materials of average quality will be used to fill canals. In order not to harm yourself and make the right decision, you need to know the features of each type of filling and their main characteristics.

Plastic products

Plastic fillings are the most affordable type of filling material, which is often used in public sector institutions. Most dentists are gradually abandoning its use, since plastic has a toxic effect on the tissues surrounding the tooth and its pulp - connective fibers that fill the dental cavity and contain a large number of vessels and nerve endings. Over time, such fillings can cause inflammation of the dental nerve (pulpitis) and other inflammatory processes in periodontal and periodontal tissues.

Another disadvantage of this type of filling is low wear resistance and tendency to deform. Filling material made of plastic wears out quickly, changes its shape, structure and appearance under the influence of any negative factors, which include:

• smoking;
• eating solid foods (apples, raw carrots, rough meat) and drinks with added gas;
• chewing gum.

The service life of plastic fillings rarely exceeds 5 years. After this time it is usually necessary to perform re-cleaning and canal filling.

note! Plastic fillings quickly change their color, so they cannot be used to treat defects and caries on the front teeth.

Metal material

Metal fillings are very durable and can last more than 15-20 years, while their cost is in the average price category, affordable a large number patients. All metal fillings are made from amalgam, an alloy of mercury with other types of metals.

Composition of a silver filling

A significant disadvantage is dark color fillings, which stand out strongly against the background of tooth enamel, so this type Fillings are not suitable for front teeth and can only be used to treat large molars. In some cases, amalgam fillings are placed on the fives (small molars), but this is possible in rare situations in people with individual characteristics bite formation. An important condition for installing this type of filling material is the preservation of thick tooth walls that can hold the metal - this is necessary to prevent deformation of the dental crown.

Not all patients can have amalgam fillings. Contraindications for the use of this filling material are:

• passage of radio waves and radiation therapy in the area of ​​the maxillofacial bones and neck;
• metal structures in the oral cavity;
• the need to fill central incisors and canines due to thin tooth walls.

Important! Some experts consider amalgam products to be toxic and try not to use them in their work. Over the past 60 years, many studies have been carried out on the toxicity of this material, and there is reason to believe that in people with reduced immunity, mercury alloys may indeed have an accumulative effect. toxic effect, therefore, if possible, it is better to use other materials to make the filling.

Materials based on polyacrylic acid and crushed aluminofluorosilicate glass are called glass ionomer cements. Fillings made from this material have a large number of positive characteristics, among which:

• long service life (more than 10 years);
• resistance to impact external factors and deformations;
• strength and excellent sealing;
• lack of contrast with the natural color of tooth enamel.

Glass ionomer cements can be used to fill anterior teeth, since they do not stand out against the background of other elements of the dentition. A definite plus of this type products is the presence of fluoride compounds in their composition, which protect the tooth from the proliferation of bacterial flora and the development of caries.

Note! Dentists recommend glass ionomer fillings for patients with hypersensitivity tooth enamel having tobacco addiction and experiencing constant exposure to other negative factors that increase the risk of developing caries.

Reflective filling material

Fillings made from light-polymer composite materials are one of the most durable types of fillings. Subject to the rules and regulations of hygienic treatment and oral care and timely treatment Due to existing dental diseases, the service life of such fillings can reach up to 20 years or more. Reflective fillings completely match the shade of the tooth and merge with its structure, which is why these materials are chosen for filling canals and dental cavity defects on the central teeth of the upper and lower dentition.

Light-polymer materials harden only after treatment with a special light lamp with a wavelength of at least 440-460 nanometers. This requires certain qualifications of the specialist who installs the filling, since it is during light exposure that the filling acquires the desired shape and color.

Composition of a reflective seal

Cement fillings

These fillings are characterized by increased strength and durability, but experts do not recommend installing them at a young age. This is due to the fact that the density and strength of the cement material is higher than the strength of hard tooth tissues, which over time leads to abrasion of tooth enamel and destruction of the chewing and lateral surfaces. Cement fillings adhere well to various surfaces and rarely require replacement, but it is best to use this type of material after 35-40 years.

Stages of filling and preparation for the procedure

The question of whether a temporary or permanent installation is necessary usually arises during treatment at the dentist, when the patient complains of pain or other unpleasant symptoms. First, the doctor will conduct a special examination and percussion (tapping) of the teeth to identify areas of pain and carious lesions. If necessary, the patient will be sent to x-ray examination. This procedure is usually necessary if root caries and deep lesions of the tooth and surrounding soft tissues are suspected.

Treatment of a diseased tooth always begins with the introduction of an anesthetic composition. Usually these are drugs based on lidocaine, ultracaine or novocaine. If the patient has a history of intolerance or allergy to any medications from the group of painkillers, you should inform the doctor about this. Be sure to tell if the patient is taking blood thinners or suffers from severe systemic diseases: diabetes mellitus, bronchial asthma etc.

After the anesthesia takes effect, treatment will be carried out according to the following algorithm:

• cleaning and antiseptic treatment of the dental canal;
• insertion of a medicinal product (if necessary);
• removal of the dental nerve (if necessary);
• filling of canals and teeth with temporary or permanent material (depending on the diagnosis and treatment).

If the patient has a temporary filling installed, he will have to visit the doctor again to remove the diagnostic filling and install a permanent product.

The most modern materials

The newest type of filling material is bioactive glass fillings. This material is already used in some clinics to treat injuries and injuries. bone tissue, since it has good interaction with all tissues of the body, takes root well and practically does not cause rejection reactions. Bioactive glass has been used in dental practice for only a few years, but such fillings can only be placed in some private clinics.

Externally, the filling looks like glass chips. Bioactive glass consists of oxides of silicon, calcium and phosphorus and has many advantages compared to other fillings, for example:

• long service life - at least 15 years;
• protecting teeth from caries and the growth of pathogenic flora;
• natural appearance;
• durability and strength;
• very high resistance to mechanical damage and any negative factors.

The main and only disadvantage of bioactive glass fillings can be considered their cost - in different regions it starts from 5000-7000 rubles, excluding other dental procedures.

Video - How long does a filling last?

Choosing a filling is not an easy task, since almost all materials used have their pros and cons. The decisive factor in making a decision should be the characteristics of the product: strength, resistance to deformation, durability. It is important that the material does not have toxic properties, since such fillings lead to gradual destruction of the tooth and inflammation of the soft tissues that hold the tooth in the bone alveolus. Dentists consider fillings made of reflective materials to be the best option, but the final decision should remain with the specialist who diagnoses and treats the patient.

Video - Dental fillings

The reason for writing this article was a question that I am often asked, especially from the regions of Russia: “The clinic advised me to install a paid light filling, and why is it better than the regular free one?”

I thought that in such a situation, most patients agree to “paid» or a more expensive filling. However, having already agreed, such a patient has little idea what it is and what he has to overpay for. But the price of a light-curing filling can also be different and sometimes differ significantly! Well, I'll try« put everything into pieces» =).

What is a light seal

It's no secret that Soviet dentistry was on the sidelines of world progress in her field of medicine. Today things are much better. If we talk about private dentistry, then everything is pretty good here (relative to the recent past).

State clinics that provide dental services, also updated the material and technical base. Despite this, you can often find« dinosaur doctors» , which« at his age» They no longer want to learn new modern techniques and treat the old fashioned way. And the system of government itself dental clinics not far gone, if we talk about . Well, for example, in our country, canals are still treated with arsenic (it’s poison, if anything), and light-curing filling remains a VIP service =).

Remember! In modern adult dentistry, arsenic is not used, and only light-cured fillings are used!

A light-curing filling or photopolymer filling is a plastic material, the hardening of which occurs under the influence of a special polymerization lamp. Even the simplest light filling has a huge advantage over a conventional filling (chemical curing). Among the advantages are: better fit (read to the end why this is needed), resistance to abrasion, and the ability to accurately adjust the shape of the tooth being restored, as a result - turnkey work in one visit.

Important! The key to a good and durable filling is not only the material, but also the quality of the treatment performed! You can put a filling from the most expensive material, but treat the tooth in such a way that within a year the tooth will have to be removed.

How much does a filling actually cost?

But here you come , and the doctor offers you a choice of several types of light fillings, of which the cheapest can cost (relatively) from 1,500 rubles, the middle price segment - about 4,000 and the most expensive - 10,000 or more...

And which one to choose? In the dentist's office there is hardly anyone to ask: and the clinic, of course, is interested in selling the most expensive product. And usually the patient has to rely on the integrity of the doctor and accept the choice that the dentist himself offers. And to those reading my« honest blog» I will try to help you make an informed choice of filling that meets your needs and capabilities.

So, what does it consist of? cost of filling(in this article I consider only the filling, without taking into account the cost ):

1. Qualification: here we write down the annual additional professional education and courses (I spend from 30,000 to 100,000 rubles for these purposes every year). You have to save from each filling =).
2. Equipment: standard equipment dental office to provide a regular set of services costs from 500,000 to 1,500,000, and this does not include cost X-ray room equipment and sterilization.
3. Maintenance or operating expenses: this includes licensing, insurance, cleaning, assistant. It is unlikely that it will be possible to calculate correctly, but in my case, each patient costs me at least 700 rubles, regardless of the service provided, even if it is just a FREE consultation =).
4. To install a seal, you also need tools of limited use (short service life) - such as burs, rubber bands, grinding discs, strips, brushes, wedges, dies, etc. Yes, with this« small things» a decent amount also accumulates.
5. The cost of the filling: “Well, finally!”, you say =). But everything is not so simple... Before announcing the nominalcost of filling(filling material), I urge you to review the points above again: without them, this price in no way reflects the cost of the work to install the filling. It is also obvious that the amount of material required to treat a particular tooth is always individual. So, I use materials in the price segment« above average and premium» . The material that I usually use for the restoration of chewing teeth costs about 4,000 rubles per syringe (about 10 fillings).

It would seem that what prevents you from putting a cheap filling on an expensive material if it is so inexpensive in itself? Probably nothing. Only I don’t know of such examples.

If a dentist saves on good equipment, insurance, advanced training and tools, do you really think that he will choose expensive material for you?

But if the doctor offers several options for fillings to choose from, it is worth choosing, of course, in favor of the more expensive material.

Which best filling and why it’s worth paying extra for it

Every dentist wants his work to last a lifetime, but unfortunately, this rarely happens. Crowns, bridges, dentures and fillings must be replaced or repaired over time. Therefore, for you, as a patient, a cheap filling can cost 2-3 or 10 times more expensive, because it can simply fall out, caries can develop under it and you will have to treat the canals or remove the tooth, and then implantation not far... Therefore, when choosing whichput a seal, the rule of the golden mean is more than appropriate, with some reservations.

If you need to put a filling on the front tooth (smile area) - this is also called, then it is better to choose the most expensive filling, then there is a greater chance that it will not darken and will not stand out against the background of the tooth. That is, the more expensive the material, the more pronounced its aesthetic qualities.

For example, I use nanocomposite material for artistic restoration. latest generation. A filling made with this material completely adapts to the color shade of the tooth. This material can also be used for regular fillings and restoration of the shape of back teeth. This is a highly adhesive material, which allows it to adhere well to tooth tissues and provide minimal shrinkage. The likelihood that over time the filling will fall away from the tooth is extremely small. Repeated treatment of this tooth may never be needed again!

The composite filling material that I use for the restoration of chewing teeth is also above the average price segment. It gives a slightly worse result, in aesthetic and qualitative terms, and can be used for artistic restoration.

The choice of material for a light-curing filling is always yours, but remember: just as an inexperienced jeweler should not bring the most expensive stone for processing, so in dentistry - high-quality work using modern techniques And the best materials is impossible without a highly qualified doctor and equipment of the dental office at the appropriate level. For this reason, a modern “expensive” filling cannot be cheap. Only yours Special attention to dental health will allow you to save on their treatment.