Make Your Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments we provide at our office. They restore teeth affected by cavities or minor damage while helping prevent decay from progressing into more serious problems that may require more extensive treatment. We use tooth-coloured composite resin fillings that are carefully matched to the shade of your natural teeth. Unlike traditional amalgam (metal) fillings, composite resin bonds securely to the tooth and can be used to repair smaller areas, allowing us to preserve more of your healthy tooth structure and often reduce the amount of drilling needed.
Why Are Dental Fillings So Important?
Many people are hesitant about getting a filling. You might be tempted to delay treatment or question whether it is really necessary, especially if your tooth is not causing any discomfort yet. However, cavities do not heal on their own, and treating them early can help prevent more serious dental problems. We encourage patients to have cavities treated as soon as possible for several important reasons:
- Prevent cavities from becoming larger.
- Lower the risk of painful infections or dental abscesses.
- Restore the strength and function of a weakened tooth.
- Help avoid more extensive and costly dental treatment in the future.
- Reduce sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks.
- Protect your natural teeth and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
Before your treatment begins, we carefully numb the gums and surrounding area before administering a local anaesthetic. We understand that many patients feel nervous about this step, so we take a gentle approach to help you stay comfortable. Once the area is fully numb, you should feel little to no discomfort during your filling procedure.
Filling the Tooth
After confirming that the area is completely frozen, we remove the decayed portion of the tooth and prepare it for the filling. A bonding agent is applied before a tooth-coloured composite resin is carefully placed, shaped, and sculpted to match the natural contours of your tooth and your bite.
Curing the Composite
Once the composite resin is in place, a special LED curing light is used to harden the material within seconds. Your dentist will then check the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and polish the finished filling so it looks natural and feels smooth and comfortable.
The Cost of a Dental Filling in Stouffville
Dental fillings are one of the most common and effective treatments for repairing cavities and preventing more serious dental problems. Because they are considered an essential restorative treatment, many dental insurance plans provide substantial coverage. Depending on your plan, your out-of-pocket cost may range from $0 to $100 or more. If you do not have dental insurance, the cost of a filling typically ranges from $120 to $300 or more, particularly if several teeth require treatment during the same visit.
When preparing your treatment plan, we consider several factors that can influence the total cost, including:
- Your overall oral health.
- The number of fillings required.
- The location and size of the cavity.
- Whether updated dental X-rays are needed.
- The time required to provide your treatment.
- The materials, technology, and equipment needed to deliver your care.
Treating cavities as early as possible is one of the best ways to protect your oral health. Prompt treatment can help prevent more extensive procedures, reduce the risk of dental pain, and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
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 consistent brushing and flossing at home, along with routine dental cleanings and checkups, tooth-coloured fillings can often last 10 years or longer before needing to be repaired or replaced.
In the past, many cavities were repaired using a material called dental amalgam, which is commonly referred to as a silver or mercury filling. Although questions about the safety of amalgam fillings have been discussed over the years, the Canadian Dental Association states that current scientific evidence has not shown dental amalgam to cause illness in the general population. If you already have silver fillings, there is generally no reason for concern.
Temporary filling products are available over the counter and can help protect a damaged tooth or cavity until you are able to visit the dentist. However, these products are only intended as a short-term solution and cannot replace a professionally placed dental filling. A cavity is permanent damage to the tooth that must be properly cleaned, prepared, and restored by a dental professional. Delaying treatment allows decay to progress, increasing the risk of serious complications such as severe infection, a dental abscess, or even tooth loss.
If you have severe tooth pain that makes it difficult to eat, sleep, or go about your daily activities, it may be a dental emergency. Contact our office as soon as possible so we can provide guidance over the phone and arrange an appointment at the earliest opportunity. While you are waiting to be seen, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area may help reduce discomfort. You may also find temporary relief by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for example, Advil). Always follow the directions on the medication label and any advice provided by your healthcare provider. Before your appointment, make a note of the medication you took, the dosage, and the time you took it so you can share that information with our dental team.
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