Dental Fillings 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Appointment
Why Dental Fillings Matter
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, affecting people of all ages. If left untreated, a small cavity can grow into a larger problem, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, dental fillings provide a simple and effective way to restore damaged teeth and prevent further decay.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are materials used to repair decayed, damaged, or worn teeth. When a cavity forms, a dentist removes the decayed portion and fills the space to restore the tooth’s structure and function. This procedure prevents further decay and keeps your tooth strong for years to come.
Types of Dental Fillings
Not all dental fillings are the same. Your dentist will recommend the best type based on the size and location of your cavity, as well as your personal preferences.
Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)
- Made of a durable, tooth-colored resin
- Blend seamlessly with natural teeth
- Ideal for small to mid-sized cavities
- Commonly used for front and visible teeth
Silver Amalgam Fillings
- Made of a strong metal alloy
- More noticeable but highly durable
- Typically used for back teeth where strength is key
- Cost-effective compared to other materials
Other Filling Options
- Gold Fillings – Long-lasting but expensive
- Ceramic Fillings – Natural-looking but more costly
- Temporary Fillings – Used in emergency cases before a permanent filling is placed
What to Expect During a Filling Procedure
If you’ve never had a cavity filled, you might wonder what happens during the procedure. The good news is that it’s quick, comfortable, and virtually painless with modern dental techniques.
- Numbing the Area – A local anesthetic is applied to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure.
- Removing the Decay – Your dentist carefully removes the decayed part of the tooth.
- Cleaning and Preparing the Tooth – The area is cleaned to ensure no bacteria remain.
- Placing the Filling – The selected filling material (composite or silver amalgam) is applied to restore the tooth’s structure.
- Polishing and Adjusting – Your dentist shapes and smooths the filling to ensure a natural feel and bite.
The entire process usually takes less than an hour, and most patients can return to their normal activities immediately afterward.
How Much Do Tooth Fillings Cost?
Many patients wonder about the cost of cavity fillings. The price depends on:
- Type of filling material (composite fillings tend to be slightly more expensive than silver amalgam)
- Size and location of the cavity
- Insurance coverage (many dental plans cover part or all of the cost)
At Stillwater Dental and Implants, we accept most dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options, including an in-house membership plan for uninsured patients. Our goal is to make quality dental care affordable and accessible for everyone.
Don’t Ignore a Cavity—Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible damage, don’t wait—cavities only worsen over time. We provide expert cavity fillings using the latest techniques to ensure a comfortable experience.
Take the first step toward a healthier smile—contact us to schedule your appointment today! Learn more about our composite fillings or call us to book your visit.