Dental fillings North Hollywood, CA

Neglecting a cavity can lead to serious complications, including severe tooth pain, infection, and tooth loss. Dental fillings are a simple, painless procedure that prevents further decay, alleviates pain, and avoids more complex treatments like root canals or extractions.

Do not wait until your cavity worsens or pain becomes severe. Book an appointment with SoCal Dental Care today in North Hollywood to determine the best course of action and restore your smile to its natural health.

Why Tooth Decay Requires Fillings

Dental fillings address a microscopic but significant problem: tooth decay. Tooth decay creates a permanent hole in the tooth, as teeth cannot repair themselves like other body tissues. Professional care is therefore essential.

Decay begins with plaque, a colorless, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. When you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria use these carbohydrates and produce strong acids as a by-product through a process similar to fermentation. These acids attack the tooth’s hard outer surface, the enamel, through demineralization. Although enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, repeated acid exposure weakens it by dissolving its mineral crystals.

Early signs of decay may appear as a chalky white spot, indicating mineral loss. Continued acid exposure deepens the demineralization, eventually forming a cavity. Once decay breaches the enamel, it can reach the softer dentin and ultimately the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.

A cavity that does not receive treatment will increase in size and depth as time passes, resulting in bigger problems. The bacteria may get into the pulp and lead to a painful infection called an abscess. This may cause excruciating pain, swelling, and loss of teeth. That is why fillings are required. They remove the rotten part of your tooth, restore its form, so that the decay does not go any further, and prevent more severe health problems.

Dental Filling Materials

Choosing the dental filling substance is a sensitive choice that balances the durability, beauty, and price. Each material has unique properties, making some more suitable for certain situations than others. Some of the common materials include:

Composite Resin (Tooth-Colored Fillings)

Composite resin fillings are widely used due to their natural tooth-like appearance. Made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass, the dentist applies the material in layers, curing each layer with a special light in a process called direct bonding. This technique preserves more of your natural tooth structure.

Their main advantage is aesthetics. They blend seamlessly with natural teeth, making them perfect for visible areas. They can also attach directly to the tooth and offer more support to the weakened bone.

Compared to other materials, composite fillings are more likely to be stained by coffee and tea, among other dark foods. They are not as strong as metal fillings. Furthermore, composite fillings might not be the most appropriate option for huge cavities and areas of the mouth that endure heavy chewing pressure.

Amalgam (Silver Fillings)

Amalgam, or silver fillings, have been used for over a century due to their strength and affordability. They are a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, and copper, bonded with mercury to form a durable, pliable filling material.

The Mercury in amalgam has raised concerns over the years. However, the American Dental Association (ADA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirm that dental amalgam is safe and effective for most people. The mercury is stable and inactive, and the small amount of vapor released does not pose a significant health risk. The FDA advises high-risk groups, like pregnant women, children, and individuals with kidney issues or neurological conditions, to consider alternatives.

Amalgam fillings are remarkably strong and can resist considerable biting power, and hence are suitable in the case of fillings in back molars. They also present a highly cost-effective option.

Despite their durability, they have weaknesses. The biggest apparent weakness is that they are silver and are not aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, amalgam needs the removal of a healthier tooth structure to form a secure fit than composite fillings.

Porcelain/Ceramic (Inlays and Onlays)

Porcelain fillings are fabricated in a dental laboratory, after which they are bonded to the tooth. Porcelain restorations may need two visits instead of direct fillings, which are only done in one visit. They are divided into inlays or onlays. An inlay is a fixation embedded in a tooth's cusps (the chewing surface points). A more comprehensive restoration is an onlay covering one or more of the tooth's cusps.

Porcelain restorations are more aesthetically pleasing and resemble natural teeth in terms of transparency and color. They also resist stains, and they are very strong. They are tailor-made and can therefore fit perfectly, making the tooth up to 75% stronger.

The main disadvantages are the high cost and the requirement for at least two dental visits.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings, also referred to as onlays or gold inlays, are said to be the most durable. They are produced in a laboratory and glued down. Gold is highly non-corrosive, very strong, and does not get rejected by gum tissues. Properly cared-for gold filling might last 20 years or longer, often outlasting the patient.

However, despite their durability, the high cost of the material and the lab fabrication process make gold fillings the most expensive type of filling. Their metallic color is also one of the main aesthetic drawbacks for many people.

Glass Ionomer

Glass ionomer fillings are composed of acrylic and a special type of glass. They are often applied in small tooth cavities, particularly in children's primary teeth or close to the gum line.

The most significant benefit of glass ionomer is that it releases fluoride as time progresses, thus preventing future decay in the tooth. Glass ionomer also attaches itself to the tooth structure. However, glass ionomer is the least tough of all the filling materials, and it is not tough enough to support the biting power in molars. Compared to other solutions, it is more susceptible to wear and fracture, making it a less permanent solution than other options.

A Look at the Dental Filling Procedure

The process of getting a dental filling is not complex. Knowing every step eliminates any fear and makes the experience seamless. The procedure usually takes just one visit and is made as comfortable as possible. You can expect the following steps:

• Numbing the area — The process starts with ensuring you are not in pain during the procedure. Your dentist will use a numbing gel on the gum tissue and a topical agent on the tooth. This renders the local anesthetic injection that follows more comfortable. The numbing substance will almost instantly desensitize the tooth, gum, and jaw region. Thus, you will experience pressure but not pain throughout the process.

• Removing the decay — Once the area is numb, your dentist will use a small dental drill and other specialized instruments to remove all decayed tooth portions. This aims to eliminate all bacteria and break tooth structures while preserving as much healthy tooth material as possible. You may hear some noise and feel vibration, but you will not feel any pain.

• The dentist will prepare the space — After removing the decay, the dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect the cavity to ensure there are no bacteria. If you go for a composite filling, your dentist will "etch" the tooth. This is done by applying a mild acid gel that creates microscopic pores on the tooth's surface, making the composite material adhere firmly to the tooth.

• Placing the filling — The filling material is placed into an existing cavity. The specific method depends on the material chosen:

1. Composite fillings — This is a resin that is used in thin layers

2. Amalgam fillings — The amalgam mixture is a malleable type of mixture that is inserted and formed into the cavity

3. Inlays/Onlays (Porcelain or Gold) — The custom-made restoration is cemented into place

• Treatment and shaping — Each resin application is hardened with a high-intensity curing light for composite fillings. The next step the dentist will take is to shape the filling to the natural details of your tooth to restore its shape and functionality. The shaping of other materials occurs during the placement.

• Checking the bite and polishing — This is the last and most crucial stage, ensuring your filling fits your bite perfectly. A dentist will request you to bite a piece of articulating paper, leaving marks on the high points of the filling. He/she will then make any adjustments to fit your upper and lower teeth comfortably. Furthermore, polishing the filling is done to provide a smooth finish, leaving you with a comfortable, durable, and healthy tooth.

How to Conserve Your New Filling

A dental filling is not a permanent solution, even though it is durable. How long your filling will last will be determined by what the filling was made of, how well you maintain your oral hygiene, and your lifestyle. With the use of appropriate aftercare guidelines, you can save your new filling for many years, as well as safeguard your restored tooth.

The following are the average lifespans of each type of dental filling:

• Amalgam (Silver) fillings — These are characterized by excellent longevity; thus, they can last 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care

• Composite resin (tooth-colored) fillings — In most cases, composite fillings have an average life of 5 to 7 years. Nevertheless, they may be extended with excellent care

• Gold fillings — Gold is the most durable material, and fillings prepared using the material can last between 15 and 30 years or even a lifetime

• Porcelain (ceramic) fillings — These are very strong and stain-resistant, as a rule, lasting 10 to 15 years or even longer.

• Glass Ionomer — This material is not strong and can be considered temporary or filling in low-stress regions. They usually last 3 to 5 years.

The simplest, yet straightforward, routine is required to make your new filling as long-lasting as possible. It involves several dos and don’ts.

You should do the following:

• Maintain good oral hygiene — Brush teeth at least 2 times per day and floss daily to avoid plaque accumulation and new decay on the filling.

• Plan dental cleaning — Scheduling regular check-ups with the dentist will enable your dentist to check the status of your filling and to identify problems beforehand.

• Wear a nightguard — If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), a specially made nightguard would help keep your filling and teeth out of the way of overwear and stress.

As part of caring for your fillings, you must not do the following:

• Do not bite hard things — Do not chew on hard candy, ice, or popcorn kernels. These can break or even fracture your filling and disturb your natural tooth.

• Use the right tools — The right tools should be used to open packages, bottles, or to tear something. This exerts so much pressure on your teeth and fillings, which may cause their destruction.

Even with the best care, fillings are not permanent. They are prone to wear and tear daily due to chewing, temperature fluctuations, and acid exposure. With time, a filling can reveal an indicator of wear, for example, chipping, cracking, or interstitial gaps between the filling and the tooth. The gaps may enable the entry of bacteria that will cause the formation of newer decay below the filling. This issue is rarely visible without the attention of a dentist. Once this occurs, it needs to be replaced. Regular dental check-ups are the best way to keep your fillings in check and have a healthy and shielded smile.

What to Be Aware of and When to Call Your Dentist

Although a dental filling is a harmless and straightforward procedure, it is always good to know about the problems that might arise in the future. Knowing when to expect a particular symptom as a regular part of the healing process and when it is a symptom of a problem may help you to take care of your post-treatment care and know when you should call your dentist.

Post-Op Sensitivity

Post-filling sensitivity is common and may appear sharp and sudden when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. You may also have a feeling of pressure or tenderness in the bite. It is natural and normal because the tooth and nerve acclimate to the new restoration following the dental operation.

This sensitivity is transitory in most patients and will fade from a few days to weeks. It is, however, necessary to keep track of your symptoms. You should see your dentist as soon as possible if the sensitivity fails to improve or worsens. It may be a sign of something more profound, like a high spot on the filling, an allergic reaction to the material, or a more severe underlying problem that may need professional intervention to avoid more complex issues and pain.

Pain When Biting

When the bite is excruciating or does not feel right or uneven, it may be just that the new filling is too high. This problem is prevalent and can be easily fixed with a mere adjustment. Your dentist will use an articulating paper to determine the high spots and polish the filling. When you are in pain of this nature, you should immediately make an appointment with your dentist since an uneven bite may cause an undue load on the tooth and the jaw.

Lost or Damaged Filling

Although fillings are designed to be durable, they can sometimes chip, crack, or fall out entirely, especially in cases of heavy biting force or if there is new decay around the edges. In case of the loss of a filling or in case of a crack, you need to call your dentist. The exposed tooth will become susceptible to decay and fracture. The dentist can examine the case and identify the most appropriate action to save the tooth.

Allergic Reactions

An uncovered tooth is very susceptible to various possible complications. An empty filling exposes the underlying tooth structure to bacteria, acids, and food particles, which can quickly cause secondary decay. New cavities tend to develop more rapidly than primary cavities since the enamel that protects the tooth has already been damaged. Moreover, the rest of the tooth structure surrounding the previously placed filling may become very weak and highly vulnerable to fracture upon biting or chewing, leading to a more serious and complex dental issue.

For these reasons, it is important to seek the services of professional dentists as soon as possible. This will allow your dentist to gauge the severity of the damage and whether there is any new decay, and formulate the most effective plan of action that can be taken to restore and protect the tooth. This may be done by adding a new one where the older filling is lost or the damage is too extensive. A crown may be added to cover the whole area and avoid further damage.

Dental Filling Prices

Prices of a dental filling may differ significantly, and they usually range between $50 and more than $1,000 per tooth, depending on several factors. The material used is a primary driver of cost.

• Amalgam (silver) fillings — These are the oldest and cheapest, costing around $50 to $200 per tooth. They are not fragile yet observable.

• Composite (tooth-colored) fillings — These are constructed of resin, which can be associated with your natural tooth color. Hence, they are better to look at. They cost more because they require material and a more complex application, typically between $150 and $400 per tooth.

• Gold or porcelain fillings — These are the greatest and second most expensive restoration types, and are commonly utilized in large restorations. These prices may range from $300 to more than $1,000 per tooth.

The final price is determined by the size of the cavity and its location (larger or more complicated cavities cost more time and materials), your geographic location (usually higher in the big cities), and the price set by a particular dentist.

Most dental insurance plans treat fillings as a basic treatment procedure and pay as much as 50% to 80% of the cost, after you have paid your annual deductible. Nevertheless, you should verify the clauses of your plan. There are also those insurers that cover only amalgam fillings on the back teeth, or wait before new members join the insurers before primary services are covered.

A Comparison of Dental Filling vs. Crown

In case of tooth damage, filling and a crown have different roles to play, and the correct one must be chosen to maintain the health of the tooth in the long run.

A filling is a type of restoration used to fill a hole in a tooth with a small to medium-sized cavity. The decayed part of the tooth is drilled away, and the rest of the good part is filled with something like amalgam or composite. This is the perfect choice where you have adequate healthy tooth structure to carry the filling and resist chewing forces.

On the other hand, a crown, or a cap, is a type of restoration that wraps around and covers the whole tooth above the gum. A crown is required when the filling is inadequate to repair the damage.

A crown is necessary in the following circumstances:

• Large cavities — In case a cavity is severe enough, a filling might not be powerful enough to sustain the tooth's structure, which can result in a fracture. A crown would bond the tooth together evenly, dispersing the chewing forces.

• Following root canal — A tooth undergoing root canal therapy becomes weak and is highly prone to fracture. The weakened tooth requires a crown that will ensure the tooth does not break.

• Severely fractured or lost teeth — If a large crack appears on a tooth or a large fragment is broken off, a filling will not help. A crown will hold the tooth to ensure the crack does not extend and safeguard the rest.

Find a Dental Filling Expert Near Me

Dental fillings are generally necessary and standard dental procedures that offer the first line of defense against the advancement of tooth decay. Once they restore the tooth's structure, they prevent minor cavities and turn them into serious issues requiring more complex and expensive procedures like a root canal or a crown.

Understanding your options, from cost-effective amalgam to aesthetic composite fillings, empowers you to make the best choice for your oral health. Nonetheless, proactive care is the most important. Do not wait for a toothache to prompt a visit. For a comprehensive check-up and a personalized treatment plan in North Hollywood, contact SoCal Dental Care at 818-821-8308.