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 expert care 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!
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 not as used as 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.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings offer several benefits 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?
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 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?
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. The dental filling process involves a local anesthetic to numb the area. Some sensitivity afterward is normal but temporary.
The lifespan of a dental filling varies depending on factors such as the type of material used, the location of the filling, and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. The longevity varies:
- Composite Resin Fillings: Around five to 10 years.
- Amalgam Fillings: Decades with proper care.
- Gold and Ceramic Fillings: Can last over 20 years.
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!