At Renew Dental, we understand the significance of maintaining your oral health, and that's why we specialize in dental fillings, an essential part of restorative dentistry. Whether you're dealing with a cavity or a crack in your tooth, our expert team is here to provide you with comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs. Let’s delve into everything you need to know about dental fillings, ensuring you feel informed and empowered during your dental journey.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a critical procedure designed to repair damaged teeth, typically caused by dental cavities or injuries. When decay occurs, bacteria compromise the integrity of the tooth, leading to discomfort and further complications if not addressed. During the filling procedure, our skilled dentists meticulously remove all unhealthy tooth structure. We then replace it with high-quality materials that restore the tooth's shape and function, allowing you to chew comfortably and confidently once more.
What Types of Fillings Do We Offer?
At Renew Dental, we primarily focus on providing tooth-colored fillings such as composite resin fillings. These fillings not only restore functionality but also blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for visible areas, especially the front teeth. We also offer silver amalgam fillings, which are known for their durability but are less favored due to their noticeable color. Our aim is to give you the best tooth restoration options while keeping aesthetics in mind.
Curious about alternative filling materials? Other types include temporary fillings for urgent situations and less commonly used gold fillings that offer resale value but may not align with modern cosmetic preferences.
Can Fillings Be Avoided?
Indeed, dental fillings can often be avoided through diligent oral hygiene practices and preventative dental care. This includes regular dental check-ups and cleanings, where we can monitor your oral health closely. For patients who grind their teeth at night, we recommend a night guard to protect against tooth breakage. Incorporating these oral hygiene tips into your routine can significantly reduce the chances of needing cavity treatment and ensure your smile remains healthy.
Matching Fillings to Your Natural Tooth Color
One of our most significant advantages at Renew Dental is our ability to provide fillings that match the color of your natural teeth. Using composite resin fillings, we can customize various shades to achieve a perfect match. This is especially beneficial for patients concerned with aesthetics and wanting a discreet solution that enhances their smile without drawing attention.
What to Expect from a Painless Filling Procedure
We prioritize your comfort and peace of mind during the filling process. We understand that dental procedures can cause anxiety for some patients, which is why we ensure a painless filling procedure. Our team uses topical anesthetics to numb the area before any injections are administered, and we take the time to ensure you are completely numb before starting the procedure. Your comfort is our top priority, and we are committed to making your experience as seamless as possible.
Caring for Your Fillings Post-Procedure
Once you have received your dental fillings, you can resume your daily activities promptly. Yes, you can brush and floss your teeth right away after getting a permanent filling! It's crucial to maintain your oral health through consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Proper care extends the lifespan of your fillings and contributes to your overall dental health.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
Typically, dental fillings can last anywhere from six to seven years, depending on factors such as oral hygiene and dietary habits. Regular checkups will help us keep an eye on your fillings, determining if any replacements are necessary. A key reason fillings may need to be replaced is the development of new decay around them, so preventative care is essential.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Fillings
When considering dental fillings, it’s important to discuss the cost of tooth fillings with our team. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 to $300, depending on the tooth affected and the size of the filling required. We believe in transparent pricing and will provide you with a comprehensive breakdown during your consultation, ensuring you fully understand your options.
When to Schedule Your Dental Appointment
If you suspect you may need a filling due to sensitivity, discomfort, or visible decay, we encourage you to schedule a dental appointment promptly. Our team is ready to assess your situation and recommend the best cavity treatment options tailored just for you. Early intervention can prevent further complications and restore your smile more quickly.
At Renew Dental, we are dedicated to empowering our patients with the knowledge and care they need to achieve and maintain excellent oral health. With our specialized services in dental fillings, we aim to enhance not only your dental well-being but also your confidence. Experience the compassion and commitment of our team today, and let us guide you toward a healthier, brighter smile. Schedule your appointment now and discover the difference in quality dental care.
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.