Restorative Dentistry

As with every dental procedure, prices vary depending on the treatment, but if one were to compare, white fillings generally are more expensive than amalgam fillings. However, many dental insurance plans cover the price of white fillings up to that of amalgam fillings. One can simply call their dental insurance provider to see just how much exactly can be covered. Historically, tooth-colored fillings were first introduced to the world in the mid 1960s. Since then, there have been various significant improvements to how these fillings became what they are today. This ultimately led to the material being used today, the composite resin.

Bonding has evolved as a very popular cosmetic procedure that changes the smile drastically in a single visit. The advantage of bonding is that it is affordable and simple. Bonding can be done as an alternative to veneers and is used to mask the appearance due to misaligned tooth, close gaps in between the teeth. A chipped or discolored or misshapen tooth can also be modified to a beautiful tooth by careful bonding. You can even see a simulation before you actually do the procedure.

Tooth requires minimal preparation when doing bonding. The appointment is short and simple, results are cost effective and excellent.

The tooth colored fillings are bonded to the teeth. Once the dentist removes the decay and the tooth is cleaned thoroughly, and a weak acid is applied to the area. The weak acid opens up the pores in the enamel, in which the bonding agent is then flowed into to help prepare for the tooth colored filling being placed into the tooth shortly after. After shaping of the tooth colored filling has occurred, it is settled. Once the dentist makes sure the filling has hardened completely, the bite is checked to make sure the teeth align to prevent further issues in the future and if flossing can happen easily to ensure proper hygiene of the tooth.

When it comes to understanding what filling is best-suited for you, asking your dentist is key. The different properties of different types of dental fillings may be suited for different situations with different patients. Some important conditions that a dentist keeps in mind when explaining which type of filling may be best for you include the current condition of your teeth, the size of the area where the cavity lies, where the affected tooth is located in the mouth and the forces being subjected on the tooth during daily routine such as chewing or grinding. Ultimately though, the best kind of filling is no filling. You can significantly decrease the number of cavities in your mouth and the number of visits to the dentist (with the exception of checkups) by simply brushing your teeth after meals with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and seeing your family dentist regularly.