Make teeth look and feel natural again
Dental fillings are one of the most common and essential treatments we offer. They don’t just repair and restore your tooth; they also help prevent painful decay or infections that could lead to more extensive and costly procedures.
We use composite resin fillings, which are expertly colour-matched to your natural teeth for a seamless appearance. Unlike traditional amalgam (metal) fillings, composite resin bonds tightly to the tooth, making it highly durable and effective. It can also fill smaller spaces, meaning less drilling and a more comfortable experience for you!
Why Are Fillings So Important?
We get it—getting a filling might not be at the top of your to-do list. If your tooth doesn’t hurt yet, it can be tempting to delay treatment. However, addressing cavities early is crucial for your oral health and overall comfort.
- Prevent Cavities from Worsening: Left untreated, cavities grow, leading to more significant damage.
- Avoid Painful Infections or Abscesses: Fillings stop bacteria from spreading deeper into the tooth.
- Restore Tooth Strength: Cavities weaken teeth. Fillings reinforce them, making them strong and durable again.
- Save Money Long-Term: Treating a cavity now is far less expensive than dealing with root canals or extractions later.
- Reduce Sensitivity: Say goodbye to discomfort from hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Preserve Your Smile: Fillings help you maintain your natural teeth and a beautiful smile for as long as possible.
Here’s why fillings are more than just a quick fix:
Taking care of cavities early isn’t just about preventing pain—it’s about protecting your teeth and your wallet while keeping your smile healthy and natural.
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Here’s what to expect during a cavity filling—it’s a straightforward, comfortable process designed with your care in mind.
Gentle Freezing
We start by numbing your gums to gently freeze the area, ensuring a pain-free experience. If you’re feeling nervous, don’t worry—this step is quick and designed to keep you comfortable. Once frozen, you’ll barely feel anything during the procedure.
Filling the Tooth
Once you’re fully numb, we carefully clean and prepare the affected tooth. We apply an adhesive gel to the tooth, followed by composite resin—an advanced, tooth-coloured material. The resin is moulded and sculpted to fit your natural contours and bite perfectly.
Curing the Composite
To harden and set the filling, we use a specialized LED light that cures the composite resin in seconds. Finally, the dentist examines the restored tooth, making any necessary adjustments before giving it a smooth, polished finish.
The Cost of a Filling in Waterdown
Fillings are a routine procedure and an excellent way to prevent more serious dental problems. Fortunately, most insurance plans provide significant coverage, often leaving you with an out-of-pocket cost between $0 and $100+.
If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost typically ranges from $120 to $300 or more, particularly if multiple fillings are required.
- The actual cost of your filling depends on several factors, including:
- Your Oral Health: The condition of your teeth and gums.
- Number of Fillings: How many cavities need to be treated.
- Cavity Location: Fillings in hard-to-reach areas may require more time and precision.
- X-rays: Whether additional imaging is needed for diagnosis.
- Time and Expertise: The amount of time the dental team needs to address your specific requirements.
- Materials and Equipment: The supplies necessary to deliver high-quality care.
Promptly treating cavities with fillings is one of the most effective ways to prevent more invasive procedures, avoid serious pain, and maintain your overall dental health. Our goal is to keep your smile happy, healthy, and hassle-free!
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 proper care, including daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, fillings can last well over ten years.
Fillings were traditionally made with a material called dental amalgam, often referred to as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. While there’s been some debate about their safety, the Canadian Dental Association states that scientific studies have not proven any illness in the general population due to amalgam fillings. If you currently have silver fillings, there’s no need to worry!
Over-the-counter products can temporarily fill a cavity or repair minor damage until you see a dentist. However, these are not permanent solutions. A cavity is a form of permanent tooth damage that requires professional cleaning, preparation, and filling to avoid further complications. Left untreated, cavities can lead to tooth loss, abscesses, and serious infections.
If you’re experiencing severe pain that disrupts eating or sleeping, this is considered a dental emergency. Call us immediately for advice and an urgent appointment.
- For temporary relief:
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face near the painful area.
- Take a pain reliever like acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil). Always follow the label instructions and consult your doctor if unsure.
- Note the medication name, dosage, and time taken to share this information with us when you arrive.
Don’t let dental pain persist—prompt treatment will alleviate discomfort and protect your oral health.
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