Composite Fillings

Why is filling necessary?

Tooth filling is necessary to address cavities or other tooth damage and to protect the tooth from further erosion. Untreated damage can lead to more serious issues, such as infections or the need for root canal treatment. Timely treatment of cavities helps maintain the health and functionality of your teeth.

What to know before the procedure

Before tooth filling, a general dental consultation is required. During this appointment, the dentist will perform a diagnostic evaluation of your teeth and oral cavity, including any necessary X-rays. After the diagnosis, the dentist will explain the results in simple terms, answer all your questions, and discuss treatment options. The filling procedure requires no special preparation.

What happens during the procedure

The procedure begins with the administration of local anesthesia. Then, the damaged part of the tooth, such as decay caused by cavities, is carefully removed.

The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any bacteria.

Next, an acid gel is applied to the tooth to etch tiny holes, allowing the composite material to adhere to the tooth. The gel is then rinsed off, and the tooth is dried thoroughly to ensure optimal bonding.

The dentist applies the composite material in layers, matching the patient’s natural tooth shade, and gradually shapes the tooth.

Finally, the composite material is hardened using UV light. After curing, the tooth undergoes professional polishing to ensure the filled tooth looks and functions like a natural one.

What to know after the procedure – recommendations and aftercare

Diet after the procedure:
It is recommended to avoid eating or drinking for 2 hours after the filling and to follow a “white diet” on the day of the procedure. Avoid foods and drinks that can stain, such as coffee, green tea, red wine, blueberries, beets, curry, etc.

Effect of anesthesia:
The effects of anesthesia typically last 1 to 3 hours after the procedure, depending on the type of anesthesia used and individual reactions. During this time, the tooth, gums, and surrounding tissues may feel numb. Some patients may experience numbness for a longer duration.

Filling longevity:
To ensure the longevity of your filling, maintain regular oral hygiene practices and monitor your diet, avoiding overly hard or sugary foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are used for fillings?

High-quality composite materials are used. These are durable and matched to your natural tooth shade for an aesthetically pleasing result.

How long does a filling take?

Filling a tooth can take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the filling and the complexity of the procedure.

What are the risks of not filling a tooth in time?

If a tooth is not filled in time, the damage can spread deeper into the tooth’s tissues, potentially causing an infection and requiring root canal treatment. Timely fillings not only help preserve healthy teeth but also prevent more serious issues that could demand longer and more expensive treatments.

Does the filling match the natural tooth color?

Yes, white fillings are tailored to match your natural tooth shade. They blend seamlessly with your teeth, ensuring the filled tooth looks natural and aesthetically pleasing.

Is filling a painful procedure?

Modern anesthesia methods make fillings a painless procedure. Our specialists will ensure you feel as comfortable as possible during the process. If you do experience discomfort or pain, don’t hesitate to inform the dentist. The dentist can adjust the anesthesia and its dosage as needed to ensure complete pain relief.
If lying in the chair for an extended period feels uncomfortable, we can provide a pillow for head support. Additionally, if your jaw feels tired from staying open for a long time, the dentist can offer a special device to keep your mouth open, making the procedure easier for you.

Will my insurance policy cover the costs of the visit?

Depending on your insurance policy terms, the costs of the filling may be partially or fully covered. Present your insurance policy during your visit, and our administrative team will provide you with all the necessary information.

What payment options do you offer?

We offer flexible payment options to make the procedure accessible to a wide range of patients. Contact our reception desk to learn more about the available payment options.

Can I split the payments?

Yes, Dental Art offers several options to make treatment more financially manageable and help you plan your expenses:

Payments per visit. During the initial visit, the dentist will create a treatment plan outlining the number of visits and the cost for each session. You don’t need to pay for the entire treatment upfront; instead, payments can be made in parts as you attend each visit.
Insurance policy. If you have health insurance, your insurer may partially or fully cover the treatment costs, depending on the policy terms.
Financing options. You can enter into an agreement with one of the financing institutions partnered with Dental Art to cover the treatment costs. This allows you to split payments and manage your finances over the long term.