White fillings vs metal fillings.
Composite fillings offer a range of benefits, including their safety, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, these fillings can be completed in a single appointment, making them a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
Our dental practice uses composite fillings that are specifically designed to closely match the colour of your natural teeth, leaving your smile looking and feeling as natural as possible. Composite fillings allow us to seal much smaller cavities, which means we don’t need to drill as much of your tooth to prepare it. This preserves more of your natural tooth structure, promoting better long-term dental health. With proper care, composite fillings also have a longer lifespan than amalgam fillings, lasting up to ten years or more.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
While the idea of getting a filling may seem daunting to some, it’s important to understand the benefits of addressing cavities early on. We understand that some may view it as an inconvenience or unnecessary expense, particularly if the tooth in question isn’t causing any pain. However, we strongly advise seeking treatment as soon as possible, and here’s why:
- Filling a small cavity can prevent it from growing and causing more damage to your tooth.
- Prevent the development of painful infections or abscesses that may arise from leaving it untreated.
- Filling a cavity can restore the strength and durability of your tooth, protecting it against further damage.
- Early treatment of a cavity with a filling can be cost-effective in the long run, as it can prevent the need for more extensive and expensive dental work that may arise if left untreated.
- Help alleviate sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, providing greater comfort while eating and drinking.
Here’s how it’s done:
Numb the Gums
We will take the time to numb your gums so that the area can be gently numbed, including your teeth, teeth nerves, gums, and surrounding skin, to prevent any discomfort during the process
Filling the tooth
We carefully clean and prepare the affected tooth before applying an adhesive gel, over which a composite resin is molded and sculpted to restore both the function and appearance of your smile.
Curing the Composite
Using a special LED light, the composite resin material used to fill or bond your tooth is promptly cured and hardened, after which the finished tooth is meticulously examined by the doctor, who will make any necessary finishing touches before polishing it to reveal a refreshed, new smile.
The Cost Of A Filling
As fillings are a common and effective means of preventing dental issues, most insurance companies provide considerable coverage for them, with typical costs ranging from $0 to $100+. It’s crucial to remember that investing in a filling can help you avoid costlier dental procedures in the future, making it a worthwhile investment in your long-term dental health.
We consider several essential factors when determining the cost of your treatment, such as your current oral health, the location and number of fillings required, the need for new x-rays, the time necessary to meet your individual needs, as well as the equipment and supplies required to provide optimal care.
We strongly believe in the importance of promptly addressing cavities, as doing so can prevent the need for more invasive treatments, alleviate severe dental pain, and promote your overall happiness and well-being. By attending to cavities as soon as they are detected, we can help ensure that you maintain optimal oral health and prevent the need for more extensive dental work down the line.
Our dental office is committed to offering affordable, top-notch dental care, tailored to your individual needs.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can continue to brush and floss your teeth as usual after getting a filling. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits to prevent further decay and ensure the longevity of your filling.
It’s generally recommended to avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour after getting a filling, as the filling material may still be setting and could be easily damaged. After this initial period, you can resume your normal eating and drinking habits.
Absolutely! Composite resin is safe and effective and will ensure a healthier happier smile. We use composite resin for all our dental fillings because it is, by far, the best material for us to work with and for you to benefit from.
The amount of time required to get a dental filling can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the cavity, the type of filling material used, and how many fillings are needed. Typically, the process can be completed in one appointment that lasts about an hour.
Common signs that you may need a filling include tooth sensitivity, pain when biting down, visible holes or pits in your teeth, or discolouration or stains on your teeth. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and determine if a filling is necessary.
Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of fillings, although the amount of coverage can vary depending on the specifics of your plan. Some insurance plans may only cover a portion of the cost of a filling, while others may cover the entire cost. In addition, some insurance plans may only cover certain types of fillings, such as amalgam fillings, while others may cover a wider range of materials, including composite resin fillings. It’s best to check with your dental insurance provider to determine the specifics of your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.