What are fillings?
Fillings are dental materials used to restore the structure and functionality of teeth after they have been affected by cavities. They are also used to repair broken or damaged teeth.
Why are fillings important?
Fillings are vital because they help restore the integrity of teeth. Untreated cavities can lead to severe tooth pain, infections and even tooth loss. By placing fillings, the dentist can repair the damage and prevent the problem from getting worse.
The procedure for placing a filling
Restoring a tooth through a filling is explained step-by-step below:
1. Anaesthesia
Before the dentist starts, the area around the tooth is numbed with a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort.
2. Removal of the affected tissue
The dentist removes the affected tooth material.
3. Preparation for pasting
The dentist applies a layer of adhesive.
4. Placement of the filling
The dentist applies the filling material in your tooth colour.
5. Adjustment and polishing
After placing the filling, it is adjusted and polished to a high gloss.
What is the best way to prevent cavities?
Preventing cavities is essential for good oral health. Here are some tips to prevent cavities:
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Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Floss or brush daily to clean the spaces between your teeth.
Limit sugary foods and drinks.
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Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.
The importance of regular dental check-ups
Regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining healthy teeth. During these checkups, the dentist can detect and treat tooth decay early.
Repairing damaged fillings
In some cases, fillings can be damaged by wear, fractures or tooth decay around them. If this happens, the damaged filling should be replaced to prevent further damage to the tooth. It is important to visit your dentist regularly so that any problems with fillings can be detected and treated in time.
Prices of a filling
The cost of a filling can vary depending on several factors. The type of filling material, the location of the tooth and the complexity of the treatment can all affect the price.
The price of a filling is usually calculated based on the number of surfaces to be filled. A single-plane filling (for example, a superficial cavity) will usually cost less than a multi-plane filling (for example, a deeper cavity). It is important to note that additional costs may be charged for additional treatments, such as anaesthesia or X-rays. To determine the exact cost of a filling, it is best to contact us directly and get a quote from our experts. It is also worth enquiring whether insurance might cover the cost.