What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored or white fillings, are a type of dental restoration used to repair teeth that have been affected by decay, fractures, or other damage. These fillings are made of a mixture of plastic resin and fine glass particles, which can be color-matched to the natural shade of the tooth. Composite fillings are popular because they provide a natural appearance, are durable, and effectively restore the function and structure of the tooth. Additionally, they require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to other types of fillings, making them a conservative choice for dental repairs.
Why Are Composite Fillings Important?
We understand that getting a filling may not be the most exciting thing on your to-do list. It’s common to hesitate or question the need for a filling, especially if your tooth isn’t causing any discomfort (yet). However, we want to emphasize the importance of addressing cavities promptly, and here’s why:
- Stop cavities from getting bigger: By filling a cavity early on, you can prevent it from progressing and causing more extensive damage to your tooth.
- Prevent painful infections or abscesses: Untreated cavities can lead to infections or abscesses, which can be extremely painful and require more invasive dental procedures.
- Restore strength and durability: Cavities weaken your tooth structure. Fillings effectively restore the strength and durability of your tooth, helping it function properly.
- Save money in the long run: Addressing cavities promptly with fillings is typically more cost-effective than delaying treatment and allowing the cavity to worsen, potentially requiring more extensive and expensive dental procedures.
- Reduce sensitivity to hot and cold: Cavities can make your tooth more sensitive to temperature changes. Fillings can alleviate this sensitivity, allowing you to enjoy hot and cold foods and drinks comfortably.
- Preserve your natural smile: Fillings help preserve your natural teeth, allowing you to maintain your smile’s appearance and functionality for as long as possible.
How Is A Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
We will ensure your comfort by taking the necessary time to delicately numb your gums, allowing for gentle freezing of the targeted area. We understand that some individuals may feel anxious about this stage, but rest assured that the freezing will effectively numb your teeth and the surrounding region, minimizing any discomfort throughout the entire procedure.
Filling the Tooth
After thoroughly cleaning and preparation of your tooth, a precise application of adhesive gel is made, creating a foundation for the composite resin (white filling material). The resin is then skillfully shaped and sculpted to seamlessly match the contours and alignment of your tooth, ensuring an optimal fit and bite.
Curing the Composite
Once the composite resin material is applied to fill or bond your tooth, it is efficiently cured and hardened using a specialized LED light. The dentist will then conduct a meticulous examination of the treated tooth, making any necessary final adjustments, and concluding the process with a thorough polishing to achieve a smooth and natural-looking finish.
How Much Is a Filling in Woodbridge?
Fillings are a common and effective method for preventing and addressing dental issues, which is why most insurance companies provide significant coverage for them. With a typical insurance plan, you can expect to pay anywhere from $0 to $100+ for a filling. If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost can range from $120 to $300 and more, particularly if multiple fillings are required simultaneously.
Several important factors contribute to determining the actual cost of your treatment:
- Your current oral health condition.
- The number of fillings needed.
- The location of the cavities in your mouth.
- Whether new x-rays are necessary.
- The amount of time required by the dental team to meet your specific needs.
- The equipment and supplies necessary to address all of your dental requirements.
During your consultation, our dental team will thoroughly assess these factors and provide you with an accurate cost estimate tailored to your unique circumstances. We strive to offer transparent pricing and work with you to find the most suitable treatment plan within your budget.
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
Composite fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or longer with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
No, composite fillings are tooth-coloured and blend in with your natural teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable.
Composite fillings do not require any special care. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are sufficient for maintaining their longevity.
Composite fillings can be susceptible to staining from certain foods and drinks like coffee, tea, or tobacco. However, they can be polished to remove surface stains during dental visits.
Composite fillings can be used on both front and back teeth, depending on the size and location of the cavity or damage.
The process usually takes one appointment, lasting about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the filling.
Yes, composite fillings can be repaired if they become chipped, cracked, or worn over time.
Composite fillings are typically covered by dental insurance plans. However, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the specific insurance plan and policy. Some insurance plans may cover composite fillings at a similar level as other types of fillings, while others may have different coverage percentages or limitations. It is recommended to review your dental insurance policy or consult with your insurance provider to understand the coverage details for composite fillings under your specific plan.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Winston Hou
This is a great dental office in the Woodbridge area. I have been coming here for about 4 years now. The staff is very friendly and professional. The Hygienist takes care to give you a proper clean and make you feel comfortable throughout the process. I recently had filling work done on one of my teeth and I’ve experienced bad work at other dental offices where it required multiple visits to fix my bite. But the dentist at Sunny Day Dental was able to insert a new filling flawlessly the first time around.
Outstanding, Smooth Experience
Patient Loves Her New Smile After Invisalign Treatment
