Don’t Let Cavities Affect Your Smile
Cavities aren’t just minor inconveniences—they’re warning signs of underlying tooth decay. Ignoring them can lead to more severe dental problems. Dental fillings offer a proven solution to stop decay in its tracks and restore your tooth’s health and function.
At Mint Dental, we provide high-quality care for patients looking for dental fillings in Pearl, MS. Our compassionate team, led by Dr. Alexa Lampkin, uses advanced techniques and high-quality materials to repair cavities and damaged teeth. Call our Pearl dental office today at (601) 882-5600 to schedule your visit and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile! Our general dentist near you proudly serves patients from Pearl, Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and all surrounding areas.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative treatments used to repair teeth affected by decay or damage. When tooth decay creates a cavity (dental caries), it compromises the tooth’s structure. Fillings fill this void, restoring the tooth’s shape, strength, and function while preventing further decay.
At Mint Dental, we use various filling materials tailored to your needs, ensuring your comfort, aesthetics, and oral health are prioritized.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are various types of dental fillings, some more commonly used than others. Types of dental filling materials may include:
- Composite Fillings: Composite resin fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made from a blend of plastic and glass particles, making them an ideal choice for visible teeth for a seamless, natural look. They bond directly to the tooth structure and blend beautifully with existing teeth. With proper care, they last around five to 10 years.
- Amalgam Fillings: Also known as silver fillings, they’re composed of silver, tin, zinc, and mercury. They’re best for molars and other areas requiring durability. While long-lasting and cost-effective, this filling is more noticeable due to its silver color.
- Ceramic Fillings: These fillings consist of porcelain or ceramic materials that are tooth-colored and stain-resistant, making them natural-looking, durable, and ideal for larger fillings. They’re best for teeth requiring extra strength and aesthetics.
- Gold Fillings: They’re made of a gold alloy, a mixture of gold and other metals like silver and copper. Gold fillings can last for decades but are more expensive. They’re best for patients seeking long-lasting fillings with exceptional durability.
- Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings are a mixture of acrylic and glass materials that release fluoride to prevent further tooth decay. They’re best for small cavities or non-load-bearing teeth, especially in children.
Why Choose Mint Dental for Your Dental Fillings?
Dr. Lampkin and our experienced dental team use advanced techniques and high-quality materials to ensure your fillings are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. We prioritize your comfort throughout the entire process.
“So happy I found my dental place! All the staff are so cool, down to earth, knowledgeable and patient. Dr. Lampkin was funny and quick. This is the first time I’ve ever had fillings done and my teeth felt normal afterward. I love how I never have to wait for an appointment. At my very first appointment the hygienist sang Ms Rachel songs to my baby to calm her while I was getting a cleaning. I’d recommend this place to anybody.” – Amber S.
“The new Mint Dental Pearl staff is amazing. I had the pleasure to meet Dr. Lampkin and Seymone, RDH. I came in a week ago for my regular cleaning and ready to start my old treatment plan that I had with the previous Doctor. However, Dr. Lampkin took her time to double check everything by updating x-rays and giving me a new treatment plan. She explained everything with so much care and giving hope to restore my smile. I was then able to be seen by Seymone, RDH for my hygiene appointment and she was amazing. She recommended me to a different treatment to help me out with some pain that I was experiencing and it worked amazing. I am currently pain free!! In less than a week I was able to get some fillings and a deep cleaning. Thank you to the front office and the assistants as well. Such a great team. I am a satisfied patient and I highly recommend them.” – Araceli H.
Proudly serving patients from Pearl, Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and nearby communities with flexible scheduling and a comfortable, modern office environment. Contact our Pearl dental office near you at (601) 882-5600 to schedule your dental appointment!
Benefits of Dental Fillings
There are several benefits of dental fillings for oral health and overall well-being. Some of the key advantages include:
- Stops decay progression.
- Alleviates tooth sensitivity or pain.
- Restores the tooth’s natural shape and function.
- Enhances appearance with tooth-colored options.
- Helps prevent further complications, such as tooth fractures.
How Do I Know If I Need a Dental Filling Near Jackson?
Our experienced Pearl dentist will assess your oral health to determine if a filling is right for you. To determine your candidacy for dental fillings, here’s what we consider:
- Tooth Decay: Cavities confirmed via X-rays or a visual exam.
- The Extent of Damage: Dental fillings are suitable for minor to moderate decay. Severe damage may require crowns or root canals.
- Material Preferences: Options like tooth-colored composite resin fillings for aesthetics or amalgam for durability.
- Budget and Dental Insurance Coverage: We work with you to choose a treatment that fits your financial needs.
The Dental Filling Process at Our Pearl Dental Office
The dental filling procedure in Pearl is quick, effective, and virtually painless:
- Numbing the Area: A local anesthetic ensures comfort.
- Removing the Decay: We eliminate decay-causing bacteria and clean the cavity.
- Placing the Filling Material: The selected material (e.g., composite resin, amalgam) is applied and shaped.
- Curing and Polishing: A special curing light hardens the filling, and it’s polished for a smooth, natural finish.
The result is a restored tooth that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing while preventing further decay and maintaining the overall oral health of the patient.
How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost in Pearl?
On average, the cost of dental fillings typically ranges from $50 to $250 per tooth, depending on:
- Type of Filling Material: Composite fillings may cost more than amalgam.
- Tooth Location: Front teeth fillings might require more precision.
- Insurance Coverage: Most plans cover a portion of the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, dental fillings are not painful during treatment. At Mint Dental in Pearl, MS, we use local anesthetic to completely numb the area before beginning work. You may feel slight pressure, but no pain. Some mild sensitivity after the procedure is normal and typically subsides within a few days.
The lifespan varies by material: composite resin fillings last five to 10 years, amalgam fillings can last decades with proper care, while gold and ceramic fillings may last over 20 years. Regular dental checkups at our Pearl office help monitor your fillings and ensure they remain in good condition.
Yes, all dental fillings will eventually need replacement due to normal wear, but this can take many years. During regular checkups at Mint Dental, we monitor your fillings for signs of wear, cracks, or decay around the edges. Early detection helps prevent more extensive dental problems.
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of filling costs, typically 70-80% for basic restorative procedures. Coverage may vary between filling types, with some plans covering more for amalgam than composite. Our Pearl dental team works with your insurance to maximize your benefits and discusses all costs upfront.
Choose Mint Dental for Dental Fillings in Pearl, MS
Don’t let cavities compromise your oral health. Our Pearl dental team is here to restore your smile with high-quality dental fillings. If you need tooth-colored composite resin for a natural look or durable amalgam for back teeth, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Call (601) 882-5600 to book your appointment today. We proudly serve patients from Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and surrounding areas!