A long time ago, if you needed a dental filling, a family dentist near you would place a metal one, also known as amalgam. Amalgams are still in use, and they work excellently; however, they darken your teeth, and patients now value aesthetics more than ever, which is why we want to tell you about tooth coloured fillings in Okotoks.
What are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-coloured fillings near you are dental materials made of plastic (composite resin) that dental professionals place in your cavities to restore your teeth. A cosmetic dentist in Okotoks will fill them so you can feel and look natural again.
When Do I Need a Tooth-Colored Filling?
When you have tooth decay, you lose dental structure, and your dental professional needs to drill the damaged tissue away, leaving a hole in your tooth.
Your doctor will fill the cavity with the composite resin; however, if it’s too big, you may need a more resistant material, such as porcelain.
Tooth-colored fillings near you withstand chewing forces, but there needs to be more remaining dental structure than composite resin; otherwise, the occlusal forces may crack the tooth.
They also restore a chip of a tooth or enhance the appearance of a dental piece. Your dentist may add layers of resin to improve its size, color, and shape.
What Happens During the Procedure?
It is safe to say that most people have had a dental filling.
The procedure is simple. First, your dental professional will administer a local anesthetic in the area. It will make your tooth feel numb during the treatment.
Your doctor will remove the damaged tissue and shape the cavity. Afterward, they will place layers of composite resin to fill the hole and harden them with a blue light. Finally, they will evaluate your biting and polish the composite resin so it can perfectly blend with your natural tooth.
Once you are ready, you don’t need to take special care of your dental filling. It will be like your regular teeth. You need to brush your dentition twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss between teeth, avoid sugary snacks, and keep up with your dental checkups.
If you maintain good oral care habits, a dental filling may last from 5 to 7 years; sometimes even more. We have had patients with composite resins with ten years in excellent condition. It will depend on the patient’s diet, habits, and lifestyle.
We strongly recommend not chewing ice, biting your nails, and opening hard objects with your teeth to extend the life of your tooth-coloured fillings (and to prevent damaging your natural teeth).
What to Expect After the Procedure?
Most people feel perfect after getting a composite resin; however, you may feel slight sensitivity when biting, especially very cold or hot foods. After a couple of days, tooth sensitivity will cease. If it doesn’t, you must contact your dental professional.
Are Composite Fillings Expensive?
Composite fillings are affordable for almost everyone. Each filling may cost about $150. You may contact your insurance company since most of them offer coverage for dental fillings.
You must visit your dentist every six months for a checkup. They will take a set of x-rays and evaluate the condition of your fillings. If it is leaking, they may polish the edges and add another layer of composite resin or replace it entirely.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you have any other questions, feel free to get in touch with our dental clinic. We offer a wide range of dental procedures and have a team of caring specialists that look forward to helping you restore your smile.