Fillings and Sealants
Tooth decay and cavities are common dental issues. Our dentistry in Germantown can provide a tooth-colored filling to restore your tooth and prevent the problem from developing into something worse.
Tooth Fillings and Sealants
What is a tooth filling?
A filling is a simple restoration procedure primarily used to restore cavities or other mild decay or deterioration. Fillings are extremely common and have a high success rate. We offer both composite fillings and amalgam fillings. Which type we use depends on your needs, but we commonly use composite fillings because they are tooth-colored and appear more natural for teeth that are visible and easier for others to see.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are a thin coating that is painted on teeth to protect them from cavities, they are typically used in children, but can be used in adults as well. Sealants are a quick and affordable option to preventing cavities and tooth fillings.
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How do cavity fillings work?
Cavity and tooth fillings are needed when deterioration because of decay and cavities leaves holes in teeth. Left unchecked, the decay will continue to spread and cause more damage. During the filling procedure, dentists clean away the decay inside the cavity, usually with a drill to prevent further damage. But this doesn’t fix the preexisting damage, so a filling is necessary. The intent of the filling is to replace the part of the tooth that is missing or destroyed by tooth decay. The dentist molds the filling to match the shape of the surrounding tooth, which restores the strength and integrity of the tooth and prevents further decay from happening.
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How much does a tooth filling cost?
We aim to provide quality dental care that’s affordable for our patients. Tooth filling cost varies based on the type and number of fillings needed. Out of pocket cost for any procedure depends on your insurance coverage at the time of the procedure.
Posterior Composite (White) Fillings: $205 – $295
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How long does a dental sealant last?
Dental sealants have been used and proven to be effective since the 1970s. They are mainly placed on chewing surfaces and are effective in preventing tooth decay. Their lifespan can vary, but many last years—and it is possible to place a new sealant on a tooth if the sealant wears off. It’s important to note that sealants only protect the surface of the tooth. Using fluoride and other preventative cleaning practices will still help protect all the surfaces of the tooth from decay and cavities.
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What types of filling materials are available?
There are several types of materials available that are used for fillings, which include gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (which consists of mercury mixed with silver, tin, zinc and copper), tooth-colored plastic and composite resin fillings. There is also a material that contains glass particles called glass ionomer. This material is used in ways similar to the use of composite resin fillings. Which type is used depends on your dentist, the extent and location of your tooth decay, and sometimes, your insurance coverage.
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Should I have tooth sensitivity after a filling?
When you get a filling, the area around the infected tooth is numbed. As a result, you shouldn’t feel anything for an hour or two after your appointment but once the numbing wears off it is typical to feel pain in your teeth and gums.
Pain is common when drinking or eating anything that is hot or cold. It is also common when you brush or floss near the infected tooth. Tender gums are also normal after getting a cavity filled.
Minimize Tooth Sensitivity
You can reduce the sensitivity in your teeth and gums by:
- Taking an anti-inflammatory drug like Advil or Motrin
- Temporarily avoiding hot, cold, or acidic foods and beverages such as fruit, wine, and yogurt
- Brush and floss more gently
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive
More Questions?
Schedule an appointment at Suburban Dental today or explore our other available dental services.