Cavity fillings are biocompatible material used for filling up the cavities, which are intentionally cut on the infected part of the
tooth surface. These cavities are prepared in a scientific and a principled manner
in order to achieve a strong and a long lasting filling.
The main idea of preparing a cavity is to remove the infected position of the tooth so as to prevent the further spread of decay and
hence the ultimate loss of the tooth.
The cavities are prepared using high speed drilling equipment, which is controlled by the dentist. Patient may not have any discomfort initially but as the drill bit move closer to the center of the tooth (where the nerves are located), the patient begins to experience sensitivity. This can be avoided if tooth is anesthetized, which of course means having to take an injection
If the cavity prepared is very deep, a layer of medicated cement is used to line the floor of the cavity to help in healing of the tissue.
In case of metal based filling material a base is given. This base is nothing but a thick coat of cement lining the floor of the cavity. The base not only adds to the strength of the over lying filling but also insulates the tooth from sharp variation in temperature, caused by the increased thermal conductivity of the metal filling.
The term cement, which is frequently used, is a mix of a chemical powder and liquid. This mix, which is initially soft, turns hard over a period of time resembling the common cement used for construction
For cavity preparation, which is not very deep, a cement base may not be required.