Composite Fillings in Whitby
Tooth-coloured composite fillings are used to treat cavities, preventing further damage to your teeth. These fillings are custom-matched to the natural colour of your teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result that blends perfectly with your smile.
Make teeth look and feel natural again.
Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures we perform in our office. They restore and repair damaged teeth, helping to prevent further decay or infection that could require more extensive treatment. We use composite resin fillings, which are colour-matched to your natural teeth for a seamless look. Unlike amalgam (metal) fillings, composite resin bonds securely to the tooth and can fill much smaller cavities, meaning less drilling is required!
Why are fillings so important?
While the idea of getting a filling may seem inconvenient, it’s crucial to address cavities early. Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt yet, here are several important reasons why fillings are necessary:
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- Prevent cavities from growing larger.
- Avoid painful infections or abscesses.
- Restore strength and durability to weakened teeth.
- Save you money by preventing more extensive treatments down the road.
- Reduce sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Preserve the natural appearance and health of your smile for as long as possible.
How is a cavity filled?
Gentle Freezing
Before starting, we take the time to numb your gums and gently freeze the area. While some people may feel anxious about this step, the freezing ensures you won't feel discomfort during the procedure.
Filling the Tooth
Once you're comfortably numbed, we clean and prepare the affected tooth. An adhesive gel is applied to the area, followed by the application of composite resin (a tooth-coloured filling material). This resin is carefully moulded and sculpted to match the contours and bite of your natural tooth.
Curing the Composite
The composite resin is then hardened using a special LED light. After it sets, the dentist will inspect the tooth and make any necessary adjustments before giving it a smooth, polished finish.
The cost of a filling in Whitby
Fillings are a common and effective way to prevent further dental issues, which is why most insurance plans offer substantial coverage for them. With typical insurance, you might pay anywhere from $0 to $100+. If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost can range from $120 to $300 and may be higher, especially if you need multiple fillings.
When determining the actual cost of your treatment, we consider several factors:
- Your current oral health
- The number of fillings you need
- The location of the cavities
- Whether new x-rays are necessary
- The amount of time needed for the procedure
- The equipment and materials required
Promptly filling cavities is crucial as it helps prevent more invasive treatments, reduces the risk of dental pain, and ensures you maintain optimal oral health. We aim to provide care that keeps you happy and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do fillings last?
With consistent oral hygiene, including brushing, flo ssing, and regular dental visits, fillings can remain effective for over ten years.
What about amalgam, silver or mercury fillings?
Previously, many fillings were made from a material known as dental amalgam, which is often called “silver” or “mercury” fillings. Although the safety of amalgam has been debated, research conducted by the Canadian Dental Association indicates no proven connection between amalgam fillings and illness in the general population. So, if you have silver fillings, rest assured, they are generally considered safe.
Can I use a homemade tooth filling?
While there are temporary filling options available in stores, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Cavities are permanent damage that requires cleaning, preparation, and a professional filling. Ignoring a cavity can lead to more severe complications like tooth loss or infection, so it’s essential to address it with proper dental care.
How can I treat dental pain from a cavity?
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain that disrupts your daily life, it’s important to treat it as an emergency. Contact us right away for advice and an appointment. For short-term relief, try using a cold compress on the painful area. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), but make sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor. Keep a record of the medication you take and when, so we can review it when you visit us.
How Can I Prevent Cavities from Happening?
The best way to prevent cavities is through consistent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Additionally, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and using fluoride treatments can help strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.
What Are the Signs That I Need a Filling?
Not all cavities cause pain right away, but there are some common signs that you may need a filling. These include visible holes or dark spots on your teeth, persistent tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, and occasional pain when chewing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist for an evaluation and timely treatment.
More Dental Services
Dental Bonding
Restore chips and cracked teeth or improve the look of healthy teeth.
Dental Bridges
Restore gaps and replace your tooth or teeth with a custom made dental prosthesis permanently bonded in place.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns make up an essential part of restorative dentistry, and can greatly improve the strength, appearance, and longevity of your teeth.
Dental Extractions
Having a tooth or teeth removed is a very common procedure that can be performed with very little pain or discomfort.
Dental Implants
An Implant acts like a natural tooth root and is finished off with a restoration such as a dental crown to help restore the function of your teeth, look good and feel natural.
Dentures
Get new dentures or maintain and repair your full or partial dentures. These modern dental prostheses can replace several or all of your teeth with minimal discomfort.
Root Canal
Root canals can be careful, quick, and relatively pain-free bringing you immediate relief and saving your natural tooth.
Teeth Cleanings
Regular checkups and cleanings prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Plan your cleaning and checkup every 6 to 8 months to prevent the sudden onset of dental pain and unexpected expenses.
Book an Appointment
To book a visit to Whitby Dental Studio, simply fill out the form below. Our team will reach out to discuss the treatment you need.
About Whitby Dental Studio
We’re proud to serve Whitby with a commitment to quality care, convenient hours, and exceptional service.
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