Dental Fillings in Staten Island, NY

Don’t Let Cavities Go Untreated

Cavities are more than just minor inconveniences; they can lead to serious dental issues if left untreated. Dental fillings offer a simple and effective solution to halt the progression of decay and restore the integrity of your teeth.

Our dentists in Staten Island offer dental fillings to help you say goodbye to the discomfort and complications of untreated cavities. To schedule your appointment, call our dental office today by calling (718) 948 5111.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings restore and repair teeth that have been affected by decay or damage. When a tooth develops a cavity (dental caries), a small hole caused by decay, a dental filling is used to fill the cavity and prevent further decay or infection. A dental filling can also be used to repair teeth that have been damaged due to trauma or wear.

With dental fillings, our dentists can help patients with:

• Restoring the structural integrity of the tooth, preventing further decay and damage
• Alleviating tooth sensitivity and pain associated with cavities or damaged teeth
• Improving the appearance of the tooth, especially when tooth-colored materials are used
• Preserving the tooth’s function and aesthetics for years to come

Types of Dental Fillings

There are various types of dental fillings, some not as used as others. Types of dental filling materials may include:

1. Composite Fillings: Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made of a mixture of plastic and glass particles. They’re tooth-colored and blend in with the natural teeth, making them a popular choice for visible areas of the mouth. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing good support. A composite filling is less durable than amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced over time.
2. Amalgam Fillings: Also known as silver fillings, these are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They’re durable and have been used for many years. However, their silver color makes them more noticeable, which can be a concern for some patients.
3. Ceramic Fillings: These fillings are made of porcelain or ceramic materials. They’re tooth-colored and offer excellent aesthetics. Ceramic fillings are highly resistant to staining and are well-suited for areas of the mouth that require strength and durability.
4. Gold Fillings: These are made of gold alloy, which is a mixture of gold and other metals like silver and copper. They’re highly durable and can last for many years. Gold fillings are custom-made in a dental laboratory and are more expensive compared to other types of fillings.
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings are a mixture of acrylic and glass materials. They release fluoride, which helps prevent further tooth decay. Glass ionomer fillings are often used in children or for non-load-bearing areas of the teeth.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings offer several benefits for oral health and overall well-being. Some of the key advantages include:

• Decay removal
• Tooth preservation
• Restored function
• Pain relief
• Improved aesthetics
• Durability
• Quick procedure
• Minimal Sensitivity
• Prevents tooth fractures
• Cost-effective

Do You Need Dental Fillings?

To determine your need for dental fillings, our general dentists will evaluate the following:

• Presence of a Cavity: Dental fillings are primarily used to treat cavities. The first thing we’ll look for is the existence of a cavity in a tooth. X-rays and a visual examination help our dentist identify the extent of the decay.
• Tooth Structure: The extent of the damage to the tooth structure is crucial. Dental fillings are typically recommended for minor to moderate decay. If decay is too extensive, other treatments like dental crowns or root canal therapy may be necessary.
• Patient’s Overall Health: A patient’s overall health and medical history are considered. Certain medical conditions or medications may affect the choice of filling material or the patient’s ability to undergo the procedure.
• Allergies or Sensitivities: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to specific dental materials used in fillings. Dentists must consider these factors when selecting the appropriate filling material.
• Adequate Tooth Structure for Support: There must be enough healthy tooth structure remaining to support the filling. If the tooth is compromised, you may not be a suitable candidate for a filling, and alternative treatments may be necessary.
• Patient’s Preferences: Our dentists will also take into account the patient’s preferences, especially if there are cosmetic concerns. Tooth-colored composite fillings are preferred by many patients for aesthetic reasons, but other options like amalgam or gold fillings are also available.
• Budget and Insurance: Patients should discuss the cost of the filling and whether their dental insurance covers the procedure.

The Dental Filling Process

The dental filling process begins with our Staten Island dentists numbing the area around the tooth to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. Next, we’ll use a dental drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth, leaving a clean and prepared area. Once the decay is removed, we’ll carefully shape the cavity to create space for the filling material. The chosen filling material is then placed into the prepared cavity and shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth. The filling is hardened using a curing light.

After ensuring a proper fit and bite alignment of your newly filled tooth, we’ll make any necessary adjustments. To ensure your filling lasts, make sure to follow proper care instructions.

How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?

On average, a dental filling costs between $50 to $250. However, certain factors will affect the total cost of your filling treatment, such as the type of filling material, the location of the dental practice, and the complexity of your procedure. In most cases, dental insurance covers at least a portion of dental filling expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Restore Your Smile and Oral Health!

Dental fillings play a vital role in restoring the health, function, and aesthetics of our teeth. If you’re experiencing any dental discomfort or suspect you might need a filling, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dentists for a thorough examination.

Schedule an appointment today by calling our Staten Island, NY, dental office at (718) 948 5111, and take the first step toward maintaining your radiant smile and overall well-being.

Reviews

Smile Profile

Put your best face forward.

Create a positive change to your teeth and your smile.