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TOOTH FILLING IN WINSTON SALEM
WHEN TO GET A DENTAL FILLING
If you attend regular appointments with your dentist, these visits will be the best determination as to when you may need a filling. However, if you do not see your dentist on a regular basis, it can be difficult to detect a cavity is present. On occasion, decay will cause discomfort, pain, and sensitivity, but not always. As soon as a cavity is diagnosed, you should make an appointment to have it treated. Leaving cavities in your mouth untreated can cause future damage to surrounding teeth, often resulting in the need for extractions.
CHILDREN AND DENTAL FILLINGS
Some may wonder: Why fill a baby tooth if they are just going to fall out anyway? Cavities are caused by bacteria, which if left until the baby tooth falls out, can be hazardous to your child’s oral and systemic health. It’s crucial to treat cavities as soon as they are detected, even if they are only baby teeth.
The process of placing dental fillings in children is very similar to adults. Dentists may offer nitrous oxide to allow children to relax if they are experiencing anxiety regarding the procedure.
CONTACT LEAL, SPANGLER & JOHNSON
Drs. Leal, Spangler, and Johnson in Winston-Salem, NC provide the highest quality dental care with a personal touch, thoughtfully considering each patient and their needs. We offer comprehensive family and esthetic dentistry and love helping people achieve a healthy smile.
We are accepting new patients.
TOOTH FILLING DURABILITY
Dental fillings are an excellent solution to restoring the functionality and beautiful appearance of your teeth after a cavity is removed. Regular check-ups are the best preventive steps to take to monitor the health of your teeth, so don’t forget to keep up those 6-month appointments!
DENTAL FILLING PROCESS
When your dentist discovers a cavity, an appointment will be scheduled to remove the decay and place the dental filling. The first process of setting a filling is to remove the entire cavity and any other signs of decay from the affected tooth/teeth. The dentist will numb the area with a mild anesthetic to decrease discomfort during the procedure.
If there is already a restorative filling or material on the tooth, your dentist will remove this before placing a new filling. There is no way to tell what size of filling is needed before removing the cavity, so this decision is often made directly before placement.
After the tooth or teeth are cleaned, the filling is placed. The filling is layered into the space where the decay was removed and shaped carefully into the size of the former tooth, using either amalgam or composite materials. Adjustments of the filling will be made based on your bite, ensuring the treatment comfortably fits into your mouth.
TOOTH FILLING EXPENSE
Dental filling costs will vary based on your unique treatment. The size and location of the filling, the materials used, and your insurance coverage will all play a role in the final price. Before beginning the procedure, the dental team will review your treatment and benefits to assist you in choosing the best option for your budget. Insurance plans will cover regular visits, preventative measures, and exams. However, each plan is different and continuously changes in coverage. Calling your insurance company before your appointment will also assist your decision-making process in picking the most appropriate procedure for your care.