Avoiding the dentist out of fear can lead to negative outcomes over time. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help prevent and catch cavities early on. A small hole can become a significant problem if left untreated, potentially damaging the root system or leading to tooth loss due to disease. Modern dentistry offers a range of solutions designed to maintain your oral health. If you are looking for a tooth filling in Newmarket, Dr. Weizblit is committed to guiding you through the procedure and addressing any questions or concerns that you may have.
What is a Tooth Filling?
A tooth filling is a dental procedure used to repair and restore the integrity of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. The dentist removes the decayed tissues from the tooth and then fills in the space with a filling material.
When bacteria react with sugars or starches in food and beverages, they produce acid. With frequent consumption of sugary and starchy foods and drinks, the acid continually erodes the tooth enamel. The enamel can self-repair by using fluoride in toothpaste or minerals from saliva. If the loss of minerals exceeds the restoration rate, the enamel will weaken, leading to a cavity. Untreated tooth decay can cause pain, infection and, ultimately, tooth loss.
There are several types of materials that have been used over the years for dental fillings. At Leslie Family Dental in Newmarket, we only place tooth-coloured fillings that match the colour and shade of your tooth as closely as possible. We do not carry nor place any Amalgam (silver, mercury, tin and copper mixture) or other metallic fillings.
How Do I Know If I Need a Filling?
The short answer is if the dentist says you need a filling, then you need one!
Cavities often develop without causing any pain or discomfort and therefore may go unnoticed for a long time. Typically, if there is pain or sensitivity from a cavity in a tooth, it means that the decay is close to the nerve within the tooth. That is why it is sensitive! When a cavity is close to the nerve of the tooth, bacteria from the cavity may penetrate the nerve and permanently infect it. For that reason, it is NEVER a good idea to wait until pain develops before seeking dental care. Cavities are best monitored and treated on a preventative basis and the adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds very true in this case. If bacteria from a cavity enters the nerve space, the nerve of the tooth gets infected and the only way to clear that infection is through a procedure known as a Root Canal Treatment, with the only other alternative being an extraction (removal) of the infected tooth. By waiting for pain to seek treatment, not only are you risking losing your tooth, but you are also likely to need to undergo more complex and costly treatment. It is therefore recommended that you have a dentist check your teeth often and heed any recommendations to update your X-ray images as this will maximize the chance of catching cavities while they are small and low-risk to treat.
If you’re wondering whether you might need a dental filling, here are some key signs to look out for:
- Tooth Sensitivity: If one of your teeth is particularly sensitive to hot or cold temperatures or reacts when you eat sweet, sour, or sticky foods, it could be a sign of decay requiring a filling.
- Difficulty with Flossing: Should you find that your floss tears or gets caught when you’re cleaning between certain teeth, it could indicate a problem, such as a cavity or a rough edge that needs a filling.
- Existing Filling Issues: If you already have fillings, pay attention to them. A filling that is cracked, broken, leaky/stained, or has fallen out is a clear sign that you need to visit your dentist for a replacement.
- Chipped or Fractured Tooth: Any visible damage to a tooth, like chips or fractures, can often be a sign that the integrity of the tooth is compromised, potentially requiring a filling.
- Persistent Food Traps: If food consistently gets stuck in or between certain teeth, it might indicate a crevice or hole that needs filling.
- Visible Dark Spots or Holes: Look out for any dark spots or holes on your teeth or if you feel a rough area with your tongue. These can be indicators of decay.
- Pain or Discomfort: Any persistent or occasional pain or discomfort, especially when you bite down or chew, can be a sign of decay or damage that might need a filling.
What Steps Are Involved in Filling a Tooth?
- Examination: The dentist will examine your teeth, possibly using X-rays, to determine the extent of the decay.
- Anesthesia: To alleviate discomfort, a local anesthetic may be administered around the affected tooth (not all fillings require anesthetic!).
- Removing Decay: The dentist will drill out the decayed material.
- Filling: The cavity is then filled with the appropriate filling material.
- Bite adjustment: The bite is checked and adjusted so that the filling is at the right height.
- Polishing: The filling is polished to ensure a smooth surface.
Cost of Dental Fillings in Ontario
The cost of dental fillings in Ontario is determined by several factors, including the type of filling material, the location of the tooth being filled, and the size of the filling.
According to the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) 2024 Fee Guide, the cost of a dental filling in Ontario can range from $200 to $470. This range accounts for the variations in tooth location and the number of surfaces the filling covers. These prices are general estimates, and the actual cost can vary based on individual circumstances and the specific dental practice.
Dental Insurance and Composite Fillings
Dental insurance plans often cover the cost of composite fillings, but the level of coverage can vary. Some plans may cover the cost entirely, while others may only cover a portion of the cost with the patient being responsible for the remainder. We can check with your insurance company to help you understand your specific coverage.
At Leslie Family Dental, we employ various methods to accurately identify and assess tooth decay. These include radiographs (X-ray images) and intraoral images, which provide a detailed view of the internal structures of your teeth. Our approach is centered on transparency and patient education. We share these images and findings with you, allowing you to see the condition of your teeth firsthand and understand why a filling may be necessary. This collaborative approach ensures that you are well-informed about your dental health and the treatments we recommend, fostering a partnership in your journey towards optimal oral health.
