
Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Experience the most common procedure in our office—dental fillings that not only restore and repair your teeth but also prevent painful decay or infection, all while using colour-matched composite resin for a seamless, natural look that requires less drilling compared to traditional metal fillings.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Getting a filling might seem like a hassle, and you might even wonder why it’s necessary, especially if you’re not in pain yet. However, it’s essential to have cavities filled as soon as possible for several reasons:
- Prevent Bigger Problems: Filling cavities helps stop them from growing, reducing the risk of more extensive damage.
- Avoid Painful Infections: Untreated cavities can lead to infections or abscesses, which can be painful and require more invasive treatments.
- Restore Strength: Cavities weaken your tooth structure. Fillings restore its strength and durability, ensuring your tooth can function well.
- Save Money: Addressing cavities early can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for more expensive procedures down the line.
- Reduce Sensitivity: Fillings can help alleviate sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, making eating more enjoyable.
- Preserve Your Smile: Filling cavities helps you maintain your natural smile for as long as possible, contributing to your overall oral health.
Taking care of your cavities now means a healthier smile and fewer issues in the future!
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Filling a cavity is a straightforward process that ensures your tooth is restored to health. Here’s what to expect:
Gentle Freezing
To start, we’ll numb your gums with a gentle freezing technique, making sure the area is comfortable and pain-free. Many people feel anxious about this step, but rest assured, this numbing will ensure you barely feel a thing during the procedure.
Filling the Tooth
Once you’re comfortably frozen, we’ll clean and prepare the affected tooth. An adhesive gel is applied to help the composite resin adhere, which will then be shaped and sculpted to match your natural contours and bite.
Curing the Composite
After the filling is applied, we use a special LED light to cure and harden the composite resin quickly. The dentist will carefully check your tooth and make any necessary finishing touches before polishing it to a smooth finish. This simple procedure not only restores your tooth but also protects your overall dental health, preventing further issues down the line!
The Cost of a Filling in Oakville
Fillings are a routine and effective way to prevent dental issues, and most insurance companies provide substantial coverage for them. With a typical insurance plan, you might pay anywhere from $0 to $100+. If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost for a filling generally ranges from $120 to $300 or more, especially if you need multiple fillings.
- When we assess the actual cost of your treatment, several key factors come into play:
- Your Current Oral Health: Your overall dental condition can influence the treatment cost.
- Number of Fillings Needed: More fillings will increase the total cost.
- Location of Cavities: The specific area in your mouth can affect the complexity of the procedure.
- Need for New X-Rays: If new x-rays are required, this will add to the overall cost.
- Time Required by the Dental Team: The duration of your appointment impacts the cost based on your specific needs.
- Equipment and Supplies: The materials and tools necessary for your treatment will also contribute to the cost.
Promptly filling cavities is crucial, as it not only prevents more invasive treatments and serious dental pain but also helps keep you happy and healthy in the long run!
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 regular brushing, flossing, and scheduled cleanings, your fillings can last well over ten years, providing effective protection for your teeth.
Fillings used to be made from dental amalgam, often referred to as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. While there are ongoing debates about their safety, the Canadian Dental Association states that scientific studies have not proven that dental amalgam causes illness in the general population. If you have silver fillings, there’s no need for concern!
While there are over-the-counter products for temporary fillings, they are not a substitute for professional care. A cavity represents permanent tooth damage that requires proper cleaning, preparation, and filling by a dentist. Ignoring dental decay can lead to severe complications, including tooth loss and abscesses.
If you’re experiencing severe pain that interferes with eating or sleeping, it’s important to treat it as a dental emergency and contact us immediately. We can provide guidance and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. For temporary relief, apply a cold compress to the affected area, and consider taking pain relievers like acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil). Always follow your doctor’s advice and read medication instructions carefully. Keep track of what you take, including the dosage and timing, to share with us during your visit.