Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures we perform, and they are essential for repairing and restoring teeth, preventing further decay, and avoiding more extensive treatments. We use composite resin fillings, which are carefully colour-matched to your natural teeth. Unlike traditional amalgam (metal) fillings, composite resin bonds strongly with the tooth and can fill smaller spaces, resulting in less drilling and a more natural appearance.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Getting a filling might seem like a hassle, especially if you’re not experiencing any pain, but treating cavities early is essential for maintaining your oral health. Here’s why we recommend filling cavities as soon as possible:
- Stop Cavities from Worsening: Fillings halt the progression of decay, preventing further damage.
- Prevent Painful Infections: Left untreated, cavities can lead to painful infections or abscesses.
- Restore Tooth Strength: Fillings reinforce your tooth, restoring its strength and durability.
- Save Money Over Time: Addressing cavities early can save you from costly treatments down the road.
- Reduce Sensitivity: Fillings can alleviate sensitivity to hot and cold, improving your comfort.
- Preserve Your Smile: Fillings help maintain your natural teeth, allowing you to keep your smile for as long as possible.
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
To start, we numb your gums to ensure a comfortable experience. This freezing process numbs the tooth and surrounding area, so you won’t feel any discomfort during the procedure. We take care to make this step as gentle as possible.
Filling the Tooth
Once you’re fully numb, the dentist cleans the cavity and prepares the tooth. An adhesive gel is applied, followed by composite resin, which is carefully moulded and shaped to fit your tooth’s natural contours and bite.
Curing the Composite
The composite resin is then cured and hardened using a special LED light. The dentist will check the filling, make any necessary adjustments, and finish with a final polish to ensure your tooth looks natural and feels smooth.
The Cost of a Filling in Bracebridge
Fillings are a common and effective way to prevent more serious dental issues, and most insurance plans offer substantial coverage for them. With typical insurance, your out-of-pocket cost may range from $0 to $100 or more. If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost typically ranges from $120 to $300 per filling, depending on the number of fillings required and the complexity of the treatment.
- Your Current Oral Health: The overall condition of your teeth and gums can affect the treatment plan.
- Number of Fillings Needed: More fillings will naturally increase the total cost.
- Location of the Cavity: The position of the cavity in your mouth can impact the complexity of the procedure.
- Need for X-Rays: Additional x-rays may be required to assess the extent of decay.
- Time Required: The amount of time needed by the dental team to complete the procedure based on your unique needs.
- Equipment and Supplies: The specific materials and tools necessary to carry out your treatment effectively.
When determining the cost of your filling treatment, several key factors are considered:
Promptly filling cavities is essential to our approach because it prevents the need for more extensive procedures, protects you from severe dental pain, and helps maintain your overall oral health. By addressing cavities early, we aim to keep your teeth healthy and you feeling your best.
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
With proper daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings and checkups, fillings can last well over ten years. Regular care helps maintain their integrity and extends their lifespan, keeping your teeth healthy and protected.
In the past, cavities were often filled using dental amalgam, commonly referred to as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. Although there has been ongoing debate regarding the safety of amalgam fillings, the Canadian Dental Association states that scientific studies have not confirmed any link between dental amalgam and illness in the general population. If you have silver fillings, there’s no need to worry—they are still considered safe.
While there are over-the-counter products available for temporarily filling cavities or minor tooth damage, these are not permanent solutions and should not replace professional dental care. Cavities are a form of permanent tooth damage that need to be properly cleaned, prepared, and filled by a dental professional. Allowing decay to progress without proper treatment can lead to serious complications, including tooth abscesses and potential tooth loss. It’s important to see a dentist promptly for the correct care.
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain that disrupts your ability to eat or sleep, this qualifies as a dental emergency, and we urge you to contact us immediately. We can offer guidance over the phone and arrange to see you as soon as possible. For temporary relief, you can place a cold compress on your cheek near the painful area. Pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may also help, but be sure to follow the instructions on the label and any advice from your healthcare provider. Keep a record of what medications you take, including dosage and time, so you can share this information with us when you visit.
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