What are dental fillings?
A dental filling is a procedure to repair an issue in the tooth. Commonly, this issue could be a cavity, which is bacteria growing in the teeth, or a crack or break in the tooth. During the filling process, we remove all of the unhealthy tooth structure and replace it with a material that gives your tooth a similar shape as before the problem occurred. This allows you to continue chewing with it afterwards.
Can fillings be avoided?
Yes, they certainly can. The primary ways to prevent the need for a dental filling are maintaining good oral hygiene and getting preventative treatments done. For instance, a night guard can protect the teeth of a patient who grinds them, reducing the risk of tooth breakage in the future and the consequent need for a filling.
What are the different types of fillings in dentistry?
There are several types of fillings available. The two main categories are white fillings or composite resin fillings and silver fillings or amalgam fillings. In our office, we primarily use the tooth-colored composite resin fillings due to their aesthetic appeal and conservative approach to tooth structure removal. These fillings are less likely to cause cracks in your teeth, a common issue with silver fillings. Other types of fillings include temporary fillings and gold fillings, although the latter is not commonly used anymore.
Can my dental fillings match my tooth color?
Yes, with the composite resin materials, we have an array of different colors to choose from. We strive to match the filling color as closely as possible to your natural tooth color, particularly for the front teeth.
Does a dental filling procedure hurt?
We do everything we can to ensure a painless procedure. We apply topical anesthetics to numb your gums before the injection and inject slowly for your comfort. We also make sure that you're fully numb before we start working to avoid causing you any pain.
Can I brush my teeth after getting a tooth filling?
Yes, you can start brushing and flossing right away after getting a permanent filling.
Do dental fillings need to be replaced?
Yes. Clinical studies show that fillings last about six to seven years on average. The main reason a filling fails is the development of a new cavity around it. Having good oral hygiene can help prolong the life of your fillings by preventing these new cavities from occurring.
How much does a tooth filling cost?
The cost of a tooth filling varies depending on the tooth and the size of the filling. Generally, the cost ranges from about $200 to $300. We always provide an estimate when we diagnose a filling to ensure you're comfortable with proceeding.
When should I schedule a dental appointment if I think I might need a filling?
If you think you may need a filling, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible. Bacteria growth in a cavity tends to increase over time, so it's better to treat it sooner than later. Early treatment can also potentially save you money by allowing us to perform a simple dental filling instead of a more complex procedure like a root canal.
What are some reasons you recommend a dental filling?
One of the main reasons that we'll recommend dental filling is a dental cavity. This is essentially a hole in the tooth that allows bacteria to get in and make the tooth unhealthy. We also recommend fillings if there's a crack in the tooth or if an old filling is starting to break down.
Are there alternatives to getting a tooth filling?
Yes, one alternative to a tooth filling is a dental crown. We typically reserve this for larger fillings. A dental crown is like a helmet that goes on over the tooth and helps protect it.
What types of filling materials are available?
There are a few different types of filling materials. The main ones are a composite resin filling, which is tooth-colored, and an amalgam filling, which is silver. At our office, we most commonly use composite filling materials.
The benefits of using composite resin filling include the ability to be more conservative when removing tooth structure, which is better for the tooth long term. The material isn't as hard as metal fillings, so we tend to see fewer cracks that form in the teeth.
How do you treat a cavity that's in between the teeth?
We typically access the cavity through the biting surface and remove tooth structure as conservatively as possible. This method allows us to fully get rid of the cavity and prevents it from coming back in the future.
What is the procedure for a dental filling?
We typically give anesthetic and numb the area so there's no pain during the procedure.
Can patients be sedated during a filling procedure?
Yes, we offer nitrous oxide sedation, also known as laughing gas. It's very safe and effective, and its effects wear off within five minutes of the appointment being completed.
Are there any side effects after a filling?
In terms of long-term side effects, there are none with a regular composite filling. You might notice some sensitivity in the tooth for a couple of weeks, but that generally gets better over time. Another short-term effect involves not knowing where you are biting because you are numb. In such cases, patients can simply come back in to have their filling adjusted.
How do dental fillings look?
With dental fillings, we try to match the tooth structure. Especially in the front, we take care to match the other teeth. The ones in the back are difficult to notice.
What do you advise patients after a procedure?
I advise patients to avoid eating or drinking anything hot and to eat as normal once the freezing is out. Sensitivity to hot and cold is normal and will wear off gradually. If they have any problems with the way the bite lines up, they're free to come back for an adjustment.
Do patients need to have their dental fillings done right away?
It's always best to treat a dental filling sooner than later. The cavity continues to grow over time and eventually gets close to the nerve of the tooth, at which point we might need to do a root canal. Therefore, it’s always less expensive and better for your teeth to get fillings before it is too late.
How can patients contact your office?
If you have any further questions or you'd like to schedule your routine dental appointment, please feel free to give our office a call at (204) 817-6768.
Fillings: Repairing Cavities, Renewing Confidence!
Say goodbye to unhealthy teeth caused by tooth decay with dental fillings! These versatile wonders not only treat tooth decay but can also make existing fillings blend in seamlessly for a natural look. Plus, they work wonders in restoring teeth that have suffered breakage or structural damage.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
- Restores structurally damaged teeth.
- Treats tooth decay and damage.
- Protects your smile from further damage and infection risks.
- Enhances the aesthetics of your smile.
- Brightens and whitens your smile.
- Cost-effective compared to root canals or tooth extractions or tooth replacement options like implants, bridges, or crowns.