Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
At our office, we frequently perform dental fillings to restore teeth and avert severe decay or infection. Our preferred choice is composite resin fillings, which blend seamlessly with your natural tooth colour. Unlike metal fillings, composite resin adheres strongly to teeth and requires minimal drilling, preserving more of your tooth structure.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Many people view getting a filling as an inconvenient task and might delay the procedure, especially if their tooth isn’t causing pain yet. However, it’s crucial to address cavities promptly. Here’s why we urge you to get your cavities filled as soon as possible:
- Stop cavities from getting bigger
- Prevent painful infections or abscesses
- Restore strength and durability to weakened teeth
- Save money in the long run by avoiding more extensive treatments
- Reduce sensitivity to hot and cold
- Preserve your natural smile for as long as possible
How Is A Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
To ensure your comfort, we take great care to numb your gums before beginning any procedure. This step can be a source of anxiety, but rest assured that the freezing process effectively numbs your teeth and surrounding areas, allowing you to remain comfortable and virtually pain-free throughout the procedure.
Filling the Tooth
We start by ensuring you’re completely numb. Then, we thoroughly clean and prepare the tooth. An adhesive gel is applied to the prepared area, and we skillfully shape and mould a composite resin to match the natural contours and bite of your tooth.
Curing the Composite
Using a special LED light, we quickly harden the composite resin material applied to your tooth. Afterward, the doctor thoroughly examines the tooth, making any needed adjustments, and then gives it a final polish for a smooth finish.
The Cost of a Filling in North York
Without dental insurance, the cost of fillings usually falls between $120 and $300 or more, particularly if multiple fillings are needed. For those with insurance, most plans cover a substantial portion of the expense, leaving you to pay anywhere from $0 to over $100. Fillings are a standard procedure that effectively prevents more severe dental issues.
When calculating the actual cost of your treatment, we consider several key factors:
- Your current oral health status
- The number of fillings required
- The location of the cavity in your mouth
- The necessity of new x-rays
- The time needed by the dental team to address your specific needs
- The equipment and supplies required to provide comprehensive care
We prioritize filling cavities quickly because doing so helps prevent the need for more invasive procedures, avoids severe dental pain, and ensures you stay in optimal health and happiness.
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
Your fillings can last well over ten years with regular cleanings and checkups, along with a consistent daily brushing and flossing routine.
Previously, many dental fillings were made from dental amalgam, often known as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. Though there is ongoing debate about their safety, the Canadian Dental Association states that scientific studies have not confirmed any link between dental amalgam and illness in the general population. Therefore, if you have silver fillings, there’s no need to be concerned.
Cavities cause permanent damage that must be cleaned, prepared, and filled by a dental professional. While over-the-counter products can temporarily address a cavity or minor tooth damage, they are not a permanent solution and cannot substitute for a professional filling. If dental decay is left untreated, it can lead to serious risks such as tooth abscess and tooth loss.
Contact us immediately if you have severe pain that interferes with eating or sleeping, as it is considered a dental emergency. We can schedule an urgent appointment and provide guidance over the phone. To temporarily alleviate pain, apply a cold compress to the painful area on your face. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can also help. Keep a record of the medication you take, including the dosage and timing, so you can inform us during your visit. Always follow the medication instructions and consult your doctor if necessary.
It’s recommended to visit the dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months. Regular visits help maintain your oral health, catch potential issues early, and keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition.
If your filling falls out, contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a repair. In the meantime, keep the area clean, avoid chewing on the affected side, and consider using over-the-counter dental cement as a temporary fix until you can see your dentist.