Composite Fillings in Vancouver
Tooth coloured fillings repair cavities and prevent further damage. Matched to your natural teeth, they blend in beautifully. Our dentist in Vancouver, BC ensures a precise, long-lasting result.
Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments we provide. They restore damaged teeth and help prevent decay or infection that could lead to more invasive procedures. We use tooth coloured composite resin, which bonds securely to the tooth and allows for smaller, more precise fillings, meaning less drilling and a more natural look.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Getting a filling might not seem urgent, especially if your tooth does not hurt yet, but delaying treatment can lead to more serious problems. We strongly recommend addressing cavities early, and here is why:
- Prevent cavities from getting worse
- Avoid painful infections or abscesses
- Restore strength and stability to the tooth
- Save on future, more costly dental procedures
- Reduce sensitivity to hot and cold
- Preserve your natural teeth and smile for longer
How Is a Cavity Filled?
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Gentle Freezing
We begin by carefully numbing your gums to gently freeze the area. This step helps ensure you feel little to no discomfort during the procedure, just a bit of pressure but no pain.
Filling the Tooth
Once you are fully numb, the tooth is cleaned and prepared. An adhesive gel is applied, and composite resin (tooth coloured filling material) is sculpted to match the shape of your tooth and bite.
Curing the Composite
A special LED light is used to harden the resin quickly and securely. The dentist will then make final adjustments and polish the tooth, restoring both its strength and natural appearance.
The Cost of a Filling in Vancouver
Fillings are a routine, effective way to prevent more serious dental problems, and most insurance plans offer significant coverage. With typical insurance, your out of pocket cost may range from zero to one hundred dollars or more. Without insurance, fillings generally cost from one hundred twenty to three hundred dollars or more, especially if multiple fillings are needed.
When calculating the cost of your treatment, we consider several key factors:
- Your current oral health
- The number of fillings required
- The location of the cavities
- Whether new X-Rays are needed
- The time needed to complete your treatment
- Equipment and materials specific to your case
Promptly filling cavities is essential. It is a simple, cost effective treatment that helps prevent pain, avoids more invasive procedures, and keeps your smile healthy for the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do fillings last?
With regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits, fillings can last well over ten years. Proper oral hygiene and professional care are key to maintaining their longevity.
What about amalgam, silver or mercury fillings?
Older fillings were often made from dental amalgam, also known as silver or mercury fillings. While there has been some debate about their safety, the Canadian Dental Association confirms that current scientific studies have not found amalgam fillings to cause illness in the general population. If you have silver fillings, there is no need to worry.
Can I use a homemade tooth filling?
Over the counter temporary filling products are available but should only be used in an emergency until you can see a dentist. They are not a substitute for a professional filling. Cavities cause permanent damage and must be properly cleaned, prepared, and filled by a dental professional to avoid serious complications like infection or tooth loss.
How can I treat dental pain from a cavity?
Severe, persistent pain that disrupts eating or sleeping is a dental emergency. Call us right away, and we will provide guidance and arrange to see you as soon as possible. In the meantime, apply a cold compress to the area and, if safe for you, take a pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Always follow dosage instructions and keep track of what you have taken so we can provide the best care when you arrive.
Can I eat after getting a filling?
Yes, but it is best to wait until the freezing wears off to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek. Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first twenty four hours if possible.
Do fillings hurt?
The procedure itself is typically painless thanks to local anaesthesia. You may feel mild sensitivity afterward, but it usually subsides within a few days.
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More Dental Services
Dental Bonding
Restore chips and cracked teeth or improve the look of healthy teeth.
Dental Bridges
Restore gaps and replace your tooth or teeth with a custom made dental prosthesis permanently bonded in place.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns make up an essential part of restorative dentistry, and can greatly improve the strength, appearance, and longevity of your teeth.
Dental Extractions
Having a tooth or teeth removed is a very common procedure that can be performed with very little pain or discomfort.
Dental Implants
An Implant acts like a natural tooth root and is finished off with a restoration such as a dental crown to help restore the function of your teeth, look good and feel natural.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns make up an essential part of restorative dentistry, and can greatly improve the strength, appearance, and longevity of your teeth.
Root Canal
Root canals can be careful, quick, and relatively pain-free bringing you immediate relief and saving your natural tooth.
Teeth Cleanings
Regular checkups and cleanings prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Plan your cleaning and checkup every 6 to 8 months to prevent the sudden onset of dental pain and unexpected expenses.
