Fillings and Sealants
Tooth fillings and sealants are essential treatments used to prevent decay and protect your teeth for years to come. At Drum Hill Dental, we utilize the latest materials and techniques to ensure your dental health is maintained with the highest care.
Tooth Fillings and Sealants
What is a tooth filling?
A filling is a common restorative procedure used to treat cavities and mild decay. It has a high success rate and is available in two types: composite fillings and amalgam fillings. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs, but we often recommend composite fillings because they are tooth-colored and look more natural, especially for visible teeth.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants are a thin coating that is painted on teeth to protect them from cavities. They are typically used in children, but can also be used in adults. Sealants are a quick and affordable option to prevent cavities and tooth fillings. They can significantly reduce the number of fillings placed in permanent teeth during critical stages of growth and development. On the chewing surface of molars, deep grooves reach into the center of the teeth. Under a microscope, these crevices might look like a deep canyon. In fact, most of them are narrower than a single toothbrush bristle but wide enough for bacteria to hide. It’s easy to see how cavities can form in such a perfect hideout. If the grooves in permanent molars are sealed at a young age, the risk of decay occurring on the chewing surfaces decreases dramatically.
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How much does a tooth filling cost?
Our goal is to offer affordable, high-quality dental care to our patients. The cost of tooth fillings varies depending on the type and number of fillings you require. Dental sealants have a standard price, which is listed below. The out-of-pocket cost for any procedure is contingent on your insurance coverage at the time of the procedure.
- Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: $183-$291
- Composite (White) Anterior Fillings: $208-$386
- Composite (White) Posterior Fillings: $222-$422
- Dental Sealants Cost: $79
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How do cavity fillings work?
Cavities and tooth fillings become necessary when holes are formed in the tooth due to tooth decay. If left untreated, the decay will continue to spread and harm the tooth. During the filling procedure, dentists remove the decay from inside the cavity, often using a drill to prevent further damage. However, this doesn’t repair the damage that has already occurred, so a filling is required. The purpose of the filling is to replace the missing or damaged part of the tooth due to decay. The dentist shapes the filling to match the surrounding tooth, restoring the strength and integrity of the tooth and preventing further decay.
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Should I have tooth sensitivity after a filling?
After receiving a filling, your dentist will numb the area around the infected tooth. As a result, you likely won’t feel anything for an hour or two after your appointment. However, once the numbing wears off, it is typical to experience pain in your teeth and gums.
Pain is common when consuming hot or cold food and drinks, as well as when brushing or flossing near the treated tooth. Tender gums are also typical after getting a cavity filled.
Minimize Tooth Sensitivity
You can reduce the sensitivity in your teeth and gums by:
- Taking an anti-inflammatory drug like Advil or Motrin
- Temporarily avoiding hot, cold, or acidic foods and beverages such as fruit, wine, and yogurt
- Brush and floss more gently
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive
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Who qualifies for dental sealants?
Sealants are designed for healthy teeth that have not yet developed cavities. They are usually placed on permanent molars shortly after they come in, typically around the ages of 6 and 12. However, adults can also choose to get sealants. This may be necessary if their childhood sealants have come off or if they are starting to develop cavities in other teeth for the first time.
Investing in affordable dental sealants can help prevent more extensive (and expensive) oral health treatments in the future.
What are you waiting for?
At Drum Hill Dental, we believe in providing the best dental care at the most affordable prices. Make your next appointment using our easy online scheduling tool, contact our office if you have any questions, or explore all of the dental services we provide.
