Restorative Dentistry & Fillings | Biruni Dental Hospital

Restorative Dentistry - Biruni University Dental Hospital

What is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry covers the diagnosis and treatment of tooth decay, and the repair with fillings and similar restorations of teeth that have lost structure through decay, fracture, wear or developmental defects. It is commonly known as the filling department, but its scope is much wider.

The core principle of our department is the minimally invasive approach: only diseased tissue is removed, and healthy tooth structure is preserved as much as possible. Cavities caught at an early stage can sometimes be halted without a filling, using methods such as fluoride and resin infiltration.

Filling materials

The material used most often today is tooth-colored composite resin. Because composites bond chemically to the tooth, less tooth structure needs to be removed, and the result is esthetically invisible. Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride and reduce the risk of decay; they are preferred for primary teeth and for cavities at the gum line.

When a large amount of tooth structure is lost, laboratory-made inlay and onlay restorations offer a more durable solution than a filling placed directly in the mouth. If the decay has reached the nerve, treatment continues with our Endodontics department.

Esthetic treatments

Teeth whitening lightens discoloration in the enamel and dentin using gels applied under a dentist's supervision; it can be done in a single session at the clinic or at home with custom-made trays. Bonding corrects fractures, gaps and shape irregularities in the front teeth with composite in a single session.

Tooth sensitivity develops as a result of enamel wear and gum recession; it is treated with desensitizing applications and by covering the exposed surfaces. In wear caused by teeth clenching, the lost height is restored with composite or ceramic restorations.

Treatments in This Department

Composite (esthetic) fillings

Tooth-colored fillings that bond to the tooth and are completed in a single session.

Glass ionomer fillings

Fluoride-releasing fillings preferred for cavities at the gum line and in primary teeth.

Inlays and onlays

Durable laboratory-made partial restorations for large cavities.

Teeth whitening

Lightening of tooth color under a dentist's supervision, at the clinic or at home.

Bonding and esthetic reshaping

Correction of fractures, gaps and shape irregularities in the front teeth with composite.

Arresting early cavities

Treatment without a filling using fluoride varnish and resin infiltration.

Tooth sensitivity treatment

Covering exposed dentin surfaces and applying desensitizing agents.

Rehabilitation of worn teeth

Repair of tooth structure lost through clenching and acid erosion.

Replacement of old fillings

Replacing amalgam fillings and fillings with marginal leakage with esthetic fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is getting a filling painful?

For deep cavities, local anesthesia is given and the procedure is painless. For shallow cavities, anesthesia is often not even needed. There may be some sensitivity to cold for a few days after the filling, which goes away on its own.

How long does a composite filling last?

A properly placed composite filling lasts an average of 7 to 10 years. The size of the filling, the position of the tooth and your oral care affect its lifespan. The fit of the margins is monitored at regular check-ups.

Does teeth whitening damage the teeth?

Whitening performed under a dentist's supervision does not harm the enamel. Temporary sensitivity may occur during and after the procedure. The gums are protected during the application; uncontrolled products used at home, on the other hand, can cause damage.

Should I replace my amalgam fillings?

There is no need to replace amalgam fillings that are intact and have no marginal leakage. If there is a fracture, leakage or decay underneath, or if you have esthetic concerns, they can be replaced with composite fillings.

I have a cavity but no pain. Can I wait?

No. By the time a cavity starts to hurt, it has usually come close to the nerve and root canal treatment may be needed. A small filling placed at an early stage both protects the tooth and means a shorter and more economical treatment.