Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments performed at our office. They help prevent serious issues like infections or root canals by restoring the strength of a tooth that has been damaged by decay. We use composite resin, a tooth coloured material that bonds securely to the tooth. Compared to metal fillings, composite fillings require less drilling, making the procedure more comfortable and conservative.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Many people put off getting a filling, especially if they are not feeling any pain. However, treating a cavity early can save you from more complex procedures later on. Here is why we always recommend having cavities filled promptly:
- Stops the cavity from getting worse
- Helps prevent painful infections or abscesses
- Strengthens the tooth and restores durability
- Saves money over time by avoiding major dental work
- Reduces sensitivity to hot and cold
- Helps preserve your natural teeth and smile
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
We start by numbing the area around your tooth to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. Many people are nervous about this step, but the freezing process is quick and helps prevent discomfort.
Filling the Tooth
Once the tooth is numb, we clean the area to remove decay. Then we apply an adhesive gel and carefully place the composite resin. The material is shaped to match your natural bite.
Curing the Composite
To harden the filling, we use a special light that sets the material in seconds. Once the filling is cured, we smooth and polish the surface to complete the restoration.
The Cost of a Filling in London
Because fillings are so effective at stopping cavities from progressing, most insurance plans cover them to some extent. With insurance, your out of pocket cost could range from $0 to $100 or more. Without insurance, the cost generally ranges from $120 to $300 depending on several factors.
- Your current oral health
- The number of fillings required
- The location of the cavity
- Whether updated x rays are needed
- The time needed for your visit
- The supplies and equipment used for your care
Here is what we consider when estimating the cost of your filling:
We encourage patients to address cavities early. Prompt treatment not only reduces discomfort but also prevents the need for more extensive procedures in the future.
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 dental checkups, composite fillings can last more than ten years. Their longevity also depends on where the filling is located and your oral habits.
In the past, many dentists used a material called dental amalgam. These were often referred to as silver or mercury fillings. According to the Canadian Dental Association, scientific research has not confirmed that amalgam fillings pose health risks to the general population. If you have silver fillings, there is no need to worry unless they are damaged or deteriorating.
Some drugstores sell temporary filling materials, but these should only be used in emergencies until you can see a dentist. Cavities are permanent damage to a tooth, and professional treatment is required to clean, disinfect, and seal the area. Leaving a cavity untreated can lead to infections, abscesses, and tooth loss.
If your pain is severe enough to interrupt your eating or sleep, it may be a dental emergency. Call our office so we can help right away. In the meantime, you can use a cold compress on the outside of your face and take over the counter pain relief like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label and note what you took and when, so you can share this information with us during your visit.
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