What are dental fillings?
A dental filling is a treatment for a cavity. Cavities occur when bacteria or other factors erode small holes in your teeth. These areas need to be cleaned out, as leaving a hole in your tooth could be detrimental, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Once the cavities are cleaned, we fill the small hole with a filling material. The filling is intended to reconstruct your tooth, making it look like new again.
How can I avoid getting a filling done?
Some cavities can be treated without a filling if caught early when the cavity is small. We use minimally invasive techniques and would never do a filling if a tooth could be treated with less invasive options. If you think you might need a filling or have a small cavity, come in so we can check if you're a candidate for other minimally invasive options. Particularly for children, we aim to avoid invasive procedures to ensure a positive dental experience. In some cases, if a cavity is deep, a filling may be unavoidable to preserve the tooth.
Is it possible to do a filling without drilling?
Yes, especially for children, there are techniques such as the smart filling technique, which involves applying a special medicine to the tooth without drilling or numbing, allowing us to place the filling on top. Additionally, a revolutionary treatment coming in 2025 will enable decay removal without drilling, primarily for baby teeth but possibly for some adult teeth as well. If you're interested in these alternative techniques, contact us for a consultation.
What are the different types of filling materials available?
Historically, silver mercury fillings were common, but concerns about mercury and aesthetics have led many to opt for white fillings. At Monahan Dentistry and Implant Center, we use white fillings, which can be made from dental composite or porcelain. Dental composite is effective and easily sculpted to look like a natural tooth. Porcelain fillings involve preparing the tooth and creating the material outside the mouth for cementing onto the tooth. Gold fillings were popular when gold was cheaper; they perform well but are now less common due to cost and aesthetics. Most people now prefer fillings that match their natural tooth color for a seamless appearance.
Does it hurt to get a dental filling done?
No, getting a dental filling should not hurt. While you may feel sensations, they should not be painful. Modern dental procedures ensure minimal discomfort, and even anxious patients have options to undergo procedures comfortably. It's crucial to communicate with your dentist if you experience discomfort during a procedure to address it immediately.
Can you brush your teeth right away after a filling?
Yes, you can brush your teeth immediately after a filling. The materials we use set up right away, allowing you to eat a regular meal as soon as numbness wears off. However, avoid chewing while still numb to prevent biting your cheek or tongue. Once the numbness subsides, you can resume normal eating and brushing.
How much do dental fillings cost?
The cost of a dental filling varies based on factors like the number of tooth surfaces involved. A simple one-surface filling costs less than more extensive fillings. Insurance coverage also affects the final cost, as dental insurance typically covers part of the expense. We provide cost estimates based on your insurance before starting the procedure.
When should you schedule your appointment if you think you might need a filling done?
Schedule your appointment as soon as possible. The earlier a cavity is treated, the less extensive and costly the filling will be. Cavities grow slowly and often unnoticed, so catching them early can allow for alternative treatments and prevent larger issues. Choose a dentist attentive to detail to ensure natural-looking and feeling fillings. Contact us if you need a consultation or think you may need a filling.
Which Is The Better Option?
When it comes to filling cavities, two popular options are composite fillings and tooth-colored fillings. These two types of fillings have gained popularity among dental patients due to their natural-looking appearance and durability.
Composite Fillings: An Overview
Composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass, and they are often used to repair small to medium-sized cavities. They are tooth-colored and can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for those who want their fillings to blend in with their teeth.
One of the advantages of composite fillings is that they require less removal of the natural tooth structure compared to other types of fillings. The composite material is applied in layers, with each layer being cured using a special light. Once the filling is complete, it is polished to give it a natural appearance.
Tooth-Colored Fillings: An Overview
Tooth-colored fillings are similar to composite fillings, but they are made of a material called ceramic. They are also tooth-colored and can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth. Tooth-colored fillings are often used for small to medium-sized cavities, and they are also durable and long-lasting.
One of the advantages of tooth-colored fillings is that they are more resistant to staining compared to composite fillings. They also require less removal of the natural tooth structure compared to other types of fillings. Tooth-colored fillings are also applied in layers, with each layer being cured using a special light. Once the filling is complete, it is polished to give it a natural appearance.
Composite Fillings Vs. Tooth-Colored Fillings: Which One Is Better?
Both composite fillings and tooth-colored fillings have their advantages and disadvantages. Composite fillings are often more affordable compared to tooth-colored fillings, and they are also more widely available. However, they are more prone to staining compared to tooth-colored fillings, and they may not last as long.
Tooth-colored fillings are more resistant to staining compared to composite fillings, and they also have a longer lifespan. However, they are often more expensive compared to composite fillings, and they may not be as widely available.
Choosing The Right Filling For You
When it comes to choosing the right filling for you, it is important to consider your budget, the size of the cavity, and your personal preferences. Consulting with an experienced dentist like Dr. Shawn Monahan in Mesa, Arizona can help you make an informed decision about which type of filling is best for your needs.
Composite fillings and tooth-colored fillings are both excellent options for filling cavities. While they have their differences, both types of fillings can provide natural-looking results and long-lasting durability. By consulting with Dr. Monahan and discussing your options, you can choose the right filling for your needs and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
