Don’t Let Cavities Go Untreated
Cavities are more than just minor inconveniences; they can lead to serious dental issues if left untreated. Dental fillings offer a simple and effective solution to halt the progression of decay and restore the integrity of your teeth.
At RiverWalk Family Dental, our Naperville dentists offer dental fillings to help you say goodbye to the discomfort and potential complications of untreated cavities. To schedule your appointment, contact our dental office today by calling 630-579-6000
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings restore and repair teeth that have been affected by decay or damage. When a tooth develops a cavity (dental caries), a small hole caused by decay, a dental filling is used to fill the cavity and prevent further decay or infection. A dental filling can also be used to repair teeth that have been damaged due to trauma or wear.
With dental fillings, our dentists can help patients with:
- Restoring the structural integrity of the tooth, preventing further decay and damage.
- Alleviating tooth sensitivity and pain associated with cavities or damaged teeth.
- Improving the appearance of the tooth, especially when tooth-colored materials are used.
- Preserving the tooth’s function and aesthetics for years to come.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings offer several benefits for oral health and overall well-being. Some of the key advantages include:
- Decay removal
- Tooth preservation
- Restored function
- Pain relief
- Improved aesthetics
- Durability
- Quick procedure
- Minimal Sensitivity
- Prevents tooth fractures
- Cost-effective
Do You Need Dental Fillings?
To determine your need for dental fillings, our general dentists will evaluate the following:
- Presence of a Cavity: Dental fillings are primarily used to treat cavities. The first thing we’ll look for is the existence of a cavity in a tooth. X-rays and a visual examination help our dentist identify the extent of the decay.
- Tooth Structure: The extent of the damage to the tooth structure is crucial. Dental fillings are typically recommended for minor to moderate decay. If the decay is too extensive, other treatments like dental crowns or root canals may be necessary.
- Patient’s Overall Health: A patient’s overall health and medical history are considered. Certain medical conditions or medications may affect the choice of filling material or the patient’s ability to undergo the procedure.
- Allergies or Sensitivities: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to specific dental materials used in fillings. Dentists must consider these factors when selecting the appropriate filling material.
- Adequate Tooth Structure for Support: There must be enough healthy tooth structure remaining to support the filling. If the tooth is severely compromised, you may not be a suitable candidate for a filling, and alternative treatments may be necessary.
- Patient’s Preferences: Our dentists will also take into account the patient’s preferences, especially if there are cosmetic concerns. Tooth-colored composite fillings are preferred by many patients for aesthetic reasons, but other options like amalgam or gold fillings are also available.
- Budget and Insurance: Financial considerations play a role in determining candidacy. Patients should discuss the cost of the filling and whether their dental insurance covers the procedure.
- Alternative Treatments: We may also discuss alternative treatments with the patient, especially if a filling isn’t the most suitable option. This could include dental crowns, inlays, onlays, or even tooth extraction in severe cases.
The Dental Filling Process
Our Naperville dentists will start by numbing the area around the tooth to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. Next, we’ll use a dental drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth, leaving a clean and prepared area. Once the decay is removed, Our doctors will carefully shape the cavity to create space for the filling material. The chosen filling material, such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain, is then placed into the prepared cavity and shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth. The filling is hardened using a curing light.
After ensuring the proper fit and bite alignment of your newly filled tooth, we’ll make any necessary adjustments. The final step involves polishing the filling to achieve a smooth and natural appearance. The result is a restored tooth that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing while preventing further decay and maintaining the overall oral health of the patient.
How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?
On average, a dental filling costs between $50 to $250. However, certain factors will affect the total cost of your filling treatment, such as the type of filling material, the location of the dental practice, and the complexity of your procedure. In most cases, dental insurance covers at least a portion of dental filling expenses.