What to Expect When You Get a Filling
Do you want to know how much a filling costs? Are you nervous about dental filling pain? Are you curious about the material that your dentist will use? You’re in the right place if you have any questions.
A filling is a procedure to restore a tooth damaged by decay. It involves cleaning, shaping, polishing and polishing the area, and then filling the tooth with filling material.
“Why do I need a filling?”
Plaque forms when food particles remain on teeth. This is caused by oral bacteria. Plaque hardens over time to form tartar. Bacteria then release acids that disintegrate the enamel, the outer layer of teeth. This leaves a gap or cavity for bacteria to enter the sensitive tissue inside the teeth. The procedure to fill the hole is called a Filling.
How do I tell if I have a cavity?
How to recognize Tooth Decay
You might experience the following symptoms when your tooth is decayed:
Holes where food is stuck
Chipped-off regions where your tongue can easily go.
Dark spots on the teeth
The first signs of tooth decay are mild sensitivity to certain foods like sweets. However, it can progress to a prolonged sensitivity or slight pain while chewing. If left untreated, tooth cavities can make the teeth more sensitive to certain foods and cause constant pain for hours.
What to Expect at Your Next Dental Filling appointment
Your dentist can fill cavities in a matter of minutes. The process of filling is quick and painless. Your filling appointment should take approximately an hour. This includes both your procedure and time spent in the office filling out paperwork.
Step-by-Step Dental Filling Procedure
To numb the area, your dentist will first use local anesthetic. The temporary sensation of stinging is caused by this. Before proceeding to the next stage of the procedure, your dentist will allow the anesthetic time to fully take effect.
Your dentist will then use a laser or dental drill to remove the decay. Your dentist will not only remove decay but also shape the tooth in preparation for your filling. The type of filling material used by your dentist may require that a gel be applied to the area where your filling will take place.
Your dentist will then apply the filling material. You may need to harden some material with a special light.
Finally, the dentist will polish it. This will ensure that no edges are left around or on the filling. This will eliminate any friction between the filling, your tongue, cheek, and mouth.
Does dental insurance cover dental fillings?
After the deductibles have been met, most dental insurance plans will cover dental fillings.
What is the cost of a filling?
A single filling costs $50-150 for a silver amalgam filling. $90-250 for a single tooth-colored composite filling. $250-$4,500 for a cast-gold filling. Depending on the material used, the average cost of a filling is between $100 and $150.
What is the average time it takes to fill a tooth?
Dental fillings usually take between 30-60 minutes, depending on the dentist.
Are dental fillings painful?
The procedure can cause some discomfort, but most dentists will use local anesthetics (to numb your gums and mouth) to minimize pain. After the procedure, you may experience some irritation. While the gums heal from fillings, tooth sensitivity can occur. There may be pain, sensitivity, or sensitivity to cold or hot foods, as well as sensitivity to temperature and pain when biting or chewing. After a few weeks, this type of pain or sensitivity should disappear. If the pain continues, consult your dentist.
Can I still work after having a cavity filled?
You can still go to work after a cavity is filled. Minor discomfort should be expected. If you feel severe pain after receiving a filling, contact your dentist.
How to Prevent New Cavities
Contrary to popular belief, cavities don’t always result from eating sugary foods like chocolate or soda pop. Cavities are often caused by poor oral hygiene. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important. We recommend that you brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste as soon as possible. Also, floss daily or use an interdental cleaner to clean between your teeth.
A balanced diet and limiting snacking between meals are important. You should also visit your dentist for regular cleanings and exams.
What materials are used for fillings?
Silver or biocompatible cements were used as filling materials. The most popular substance used is a tooth-colored composite plastic that hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light. It is soft at the beginning but hardens once exposed to UV light.
What is the cost of fillings?
Costs of filling depend on many factors.
Filling size
The material used by the dentist to fill the cavities
Rest of the tooth structure
The patient’s oral health
What should I expect after a filling?
Patients can eat and drink right away after a filling without any precautions. You will feel as good as new, and your tooth will likely not show where the filling was placed. The temporary sensitivity you feel in your tooth after it was filled should disappear within a few days.
How long will my filling last?
You know how fillings can fail. The average filling lasts 3-7 years, but it is important to have regular dental examinations to make sure that it holds up. Your dentist should be notified if you notice discoloration, chipping or darkening under the filling. These signs are usually signs that there is more severe tooth decay underneath the filling.
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