Make Your Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are a routine procedure in our office, effectively repairing and restoring teeth while preventing decay and infection. We use color-matched composite resin fillings, which bond better than metal amalgam, allowing for more precise fillings in smaller spaces with less drilling. This ensures a natural, comfortable result.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Though getting a filling might seem like a hassle, addressing cavities early is essential for your oral health.
Here’s why fillings matter:
- Stop Cavity Progression: Fillings halt the spread of cavities, preventing further damage.
- Avoid Pain and Infections: They protect against painful tooth infections or abscesses.
- Strengthen Weakened Teeth: Cavities can compromise tooth structure, but fillings restore strength and durability.
- Save Money in the Long Run: Fillings are a cost-effective way to avoid more expensive and complex treatments later on.
- Reduce Sensitivity: Fillings can ease discomfort caused by temperature sensitivity.
- Maintain Your Natural Smile: They help preserve the look and function of your natural teeth for years to come.
How Is A Cavity Filled?
Numbing
We begin by applying a local numbing agent to your gums, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. Although some may feel nervous about this step, we take extra care to numb both the tooth and surrounding area, so you won’t experience any pain during the treatment.
Filling the Tooth
Once you’re comfortably numb, we clean and prepare the affected tooth. An adhesive gel is applied, and then composite resin (a tooth-colored material) is carefully molded to restore your tooth’s natural shape and bite.
Curing the Composite
Next, the composite resin is hardened quickly using a specialized LED light. Afterward, the dentist will inspect the filled tooth and make any necessary adjustments before polishing it to a smooth finish.
The Cost of a Filling in St. Paul
Fillings are essential for maintaining your dental health, and most insurance providers offer significant coverage for them. Depending on your plan, you can expect to pay anywhere from $0 to $100+ for a filling. Without insurance, costs typically range from $120 to $300 or more, especially if multiple fillings are needed.
Several factors can impact the final cost of your treatment, including:
- Your overall oral health.
- The number of fillings required.
- The location of the cavity in your mouth.
- The need for updated x-rays.
- The time needed by the dental team to tailor the treatment to your needs.
- The necessary equipment and materials for optimal care.
Addressing cavities promptly is crucial. It helps avoid more invasive procedures, reduces the risk of painful dental issues, and ensures you maintain both your oral health and peace of mind.
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 care, including regular brushing, flossing, and scheduled cleanings, your fillings should last for over ten years.
Dental fillings were once commonly made with a material called dental amalgam, often referred to as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. While there has been some debate about their safety, the American Dental Association maintains that studies have not shown any harm from dental amalgam in the general population. So, if you have silver fillings, there’s no need to worry!
While over-the-counter products are available to temporarily fill a cavity or minor tooth damage, they are not a permanent solution. A cavity is permanent damage that requires professional cleaning, preparation, and filling. Allowing a cavity to worsen can lead to more serious issues, including tooth loss or abscesses, so it’s crucial to visit your dentist for proper treatment.
If you’re dealing with intense pain that makes it hard to eat or sleep, it’s important to treat it as a dental emergency. Please reach out to us right away, and we’ll provide advice over the phone and arrange an appointment as quickly as possible. For short-term relief, you can apply a cold compress to the painful area and take over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil), making sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Remember to keep track of the medication, dosage, and time taken so we can properly address it when you come in.
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