A dental filling is a common dental service offered by dentists. This procedure is done to fix a fractured tooth and help regain its function. It has different categories and each of them can mend several tooth problems that are in need of fillings. Composite fillings, for example, are often recommended to patients with a broken tooth. Dr. Meng at Boutique Dental in Chatswood concludes that the average cost of tooth filling can range between $100 to $300.
Facts About Tooth Fillings
Before getting a dental filling, it would be wise to know the notable facts behind it. This will prepare you for unexpected events that might occur after you get a dental filling.
- Tooth decay might occur underneath the filling. Even though the main purpose of tooth filling is to prevent decay from happening, it might still come about. This happens when the filling is getting old and is starting to become tattered.
- Root canal procedure often takes place before the procedure. The average cost of a single root canal starts from $450 and could go as high as $3,000. The main purpose of a root canal is to save a damaged tooth by cleaning its canals.
- It can be done in a single dental appointment. The average time for this procedure is roughly 20 to 30 minutes. As long as your dentist was able to determine the cause of why you are in need in need of tooth filling.
- Your cavity will get severe without treatment. Cavities should never be ignored. Untreated cavities will only get worse as time passes by and may result in extreme dental problems.
- Fillings are temporary. As mentioned, it deteriorates over time and loses its purpose of preventing cavities. It has to be checked by your dentist regularly to see if it’s time for a replacement.
Types and Cost of Tooth Fillings
There are several kinds of tooth fillings to choose from, each has its own advantage and disadvantages. The average cost also relies on the kind of fillings that you choose. This can be made of gold, silver amalgam, composite fillings, porcelain, and glass.
- Gold or silver amalgam. Gold fillings cost higher than all other tooth fillings. If the average cost of regular treatment is around $200, you can expect a gold amalgam to go as high as $3000. Silver amalgam is cheaper since it’s often made from different kinds of metal. The advantage of metal fillings is that they are more durable and can last for a decade.
- Amalgam. This is known to be one of the least expensive options. Dental amalgam fillings are mostly made of mercury mixed with other composites which makes it quite noticeable. The average cost of amalgam filling costs from $50 to $150. Amalgam fillings last for about 10 to 15 years with proper care.
- Composite fillings. These natural tooth-colored resins are perfect for patients with small to medium-sized tooth damage. One of its main advantages is that it’s adjusted according to the actual color of your teeth making it look more natural. It could cost from $300 to $400.
- Ceramic. There are several advantages with ceramic fillings, first, it does not leave any stain, second, it has a natural tooth color, and third, it’s strong and durable. However, the average cost is just as high as the price of a gold filling.
- Acrylic and glass. This is probably the cheapest filling that’s being offered as it cost around $100 only. However, this is not as strong and durable as the others.
If you are sceptical if which dental filling is suitable for you, consult your dentist right away. They will be able to help you decide which among these tooth fillings are the perfect fit for you. Layout your budget capability as well so you will know which type of tooth filling will benefit you at the right price.
Tooth Filling Aftercare
The lifespan of your dental filling will also depend on how well it is maintained. Just like other dental procedures, tooth fillings are also in need of proper care and maintenance to make sure that it won’t break down in a flash. Here are a few things to remember to keep your tooth fillings strong:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods for two weeks. This will help the materials to stay in place and be stable without any distraction.
- Floss at least once a day. This is important so that tartar won’t get stuck in between your teeth.
- Avoid frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks as these might cause damage to the fillings. These foods can also contribute to acid build-up that could result in teeth stains when introduced to the materials used for the dental filling.
- Brush your teeth regularly. Using toothpaste with fluoride will help prevent cavity build-up.
- Don’t forget your dental appointments. It is imperative that your dentist get to check your dental health from time to time to make sure that everything is in order.
Dental procedures don’t come cheap and easy. Most often, they are too expensive and costly. So make sure to follow these simple steps to make sure that your money doesn’t go to waste. You wouldn’t want to spend another penny just for the repair of your damaged fillings, don’t you?
