Restore Your Teeth's Natural Appearance and Sensation.
In our practice, dental fillings are a frequently performed treatment. They mend and rejuvenate the tooth, warding off decay or infections that could necessitate more intensive procedures. Our choice of material is composite resin fillings, which we carefully match to the hue of your tooth for a seamless look. Contrary to amalgam (metal fillings), these tooth-coloured fillings bond exceptionally well with the tooth structure, allowing for the treatment of finer spaces and thus, minimizing the need for drilling!
The Importance of Dental Fillings
or many, the idea of getting a dental filling might seem like an unnecessary hassle, particularly when there’s no immediate pain involved. However, it’s crucial not to delay this procedure.
Here’s why acting promptly is beneficial:
- Prevent the enlargement of cavities.
- Avoid the onset of sore infections or abscesses.
- Cavities compromise your tooth’s structure; fillings help in regaining its robustness and endurance.
- Opting for fillings sooner rather than later can lead to significant cost savings down the line.
- Lessen teeth sensitivity to temperature variations.
- Help in keeping your natural smile vibrant and intact for the longest possible time.
Cavity Filling Process Explained
Numbing the Area
Initially, we prioritize your comfort by numbing the gums thoroughly, ensuring the targeted area is sufficiently anesthetized. This step is crucial for those apprehensive about feeling discomfort, as it ensures the treatment area is completely numb, minimizing sensation during the procedure.
Preparing and Filling the Tooth
Once you’re fully numbed and comfortable, we proceed by meticulously cleaning and preparing your tooth. We then apply a bonding agent to the tooth, followed by the application of a composite resin (the material for the white filling). This resin is then shaped and adjusted to fit your tooth’s unique structure and bite perfectly.
Setting the Filling
To set or bond the filling material firmly to your tooth, we use a high-intensity LED light that quickly hardens the composite resin. After the curing process, the dentist conducts a thorough check of the tooth, making any necessary adjustments and polishing the tooth to ensure a smooth, natural finish.
The Cost Of A Filling In Orillia
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
Dental composite fillings, also known as tooth-coloured fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. They are used to repair a tooth affected by decay, cracks, fractures, or wear, blending seamlessly with the natural colour of your teeth to restore your smile and biting strength.
The longevity of composite fillings can vary depending on factors such as the size of the filling, its location, and your oral hygiene practices. On average, they can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help maximize their lifespan.
Whether composite fillings are better than amalgam (silver) fillings depends on your needs and preferences. Composite fillings are more aesthetically pleasing due to their natural colour, and they require less removal of tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings. However, amalgams are known for their durability and longevity, especially for fillings in the back teeth.
Yes, composite fillings can be used on both front and back teeth. They are particularly popular for front teeth due to their natural appearance. For back teeth, which endure more chewing force, composites are suitable but may wear down more quickly than amalgam fillings in these areas.
The process typically involves numbing the area around the tooth, removing decay, and preparing the tooth for the filling. The composite material is then applied in layers, with each layer being hardened using a special light. Finally, the filling is shaped to match the tooth’s natural contours and polished to prevent wear and staining. The entire process usually takes one visit to the dentist.