Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are the most common procedure in our office. They repair and restore your tooth, preventing painful decay or infection that might need more serious treatment. We use composite resin fillings, color-matched to your tooth. Unlike amalgam (metal) fillings, tooth-colored composite resin bonds well with the tooth and fills smaller spaces, meaning less drilling!
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Getting a filling might seem like a chore, especially if your tooth doesn’t hurt yet. However, we strongly recommend having your cavities filled promptly. Here’s why:
- Stop cavities from getting bigger.
- Prevent painful infections or abscesses.
- Restore strength and durability to weakened teeth.
- Save money in the long run.
- Reduce sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Preserve your natural smile for as long as possible.
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
Before starting, we carefully numb your gums to gently freeze the area. Many patients feel anxious about this step, but freezing numbs your teeth and surrounding area so you barely feel a thing during the procedure.
Filling the Tooth
Once you’re comfortably numb, we clean and prep the tooth. An adhesive gel is applied, followed by composite resin (white filling material) that is molded and sculpted to match your bite and contours.
Curing the Composite
The composite resin is then cured and hardened with a special LED light. The dentist will examine the finished tooth, make any necessary adjustments, and give it a final polish.
The Cost of a Filling in San Diego
Fillings are a routine and effective way to prevent dental problems, and most insurance companies provide significant coverage. With typical insurance, you might pay anywhere from $0 to $100+. Without insurance, costs range from $120 to $300 or more, especially if multiple fillings are needed.
Factors Determining the Cost of Your Treatment:
- Current oral health
- Number of fillings needed
- Location of the cavity
- Need for new x-rays
- Time required by the dental team
- Equipment and supplies needed
Promptly filling cavities is crucial to prevent more invasive treatments, avoid serious dental pain, and maintain your overall health and happiness.
Contact Us Today
Schedule an initial consultation and exam with us today. During your consultation, we will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as assess the shape and condition of your bite. Our goal is to understand the overall health and functionality of your mouth. Before planning your treatment, we want to know everything about your smile’s health and aesthetics. Most importantly, we want to understand your goals so we can help you achieve them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Composite fillings typically last between 5 to 10 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene and the location of the filling
Yes, composite fillings are safe and commonly used for treating cavities. They are a durable and aesthetically pleasing option.
The procedure is usually painless, as the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity afterward, but it typically subsides quickly.
Yes, composite fillings are versatile and can be used on both front and back teeth due to their natural appearance and strength.
Composite fillings are preferred for their aesthetic benefits, as they match the color of natural teeth. They also bond better to the tooth structure and require less drilling than amalgam fillings.
Composite fillings can stain over time, especially with exposure to coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. Regular dental cleanings can help maintain their appearance.
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