Dental Fillings
Dental Fillings in Metuchen, NJ
Metuchen Dental Group provides high-quality dental care, including dental fillings. Our entire staff is dedicated to providing personalized care for each patient, and we offer a range of dental services for the oral health of children and adults.
If you think you may need a dental filling, contact our office to schedule an appointment.
How to Know You Need a Filling
Fillings are used to repair cracked or decayed teeth. When you come in for a visit, we will examine your teeth and take X-rays to look for signs of decay. If we find any areas of decay, we will clean out the decayed area and then place fillings in the affected teeth.
Consequences of Avoiding Treating Tooth Decay
Fillings protect the tooth structure from further damage, and if they are not placed promptly, the affected teeth will continue to decay. This could cause extreme pain and infections, leading to periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease.
Early treatment of tooth decay is essential to dental care because if it is delayed, it can lead to more extensive dental problems. This will require more invasive dental work, such as a root canal, crown, or tooth extraction. Cavities are not considered dental emergencies, but it is still essential for your oral health to treat them as soon as possible.
What to Expect When Getting a Filling
Your dentist will provide a local anesthetic before removing the decayed portion of the tooth, then fill the resulting space with a material, typically a composite resin. Getting a filling is relatively quick and painless, although some patients may experience discomfort during or after the procedure.
The most common side effects of getting a filling are temporary sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures in the affected tooth and soreness in the gums. These side effects typically resolve within a few days. Multiple fillings can often be placed in one visit to fit your busy schedule.
Filling Materials
Historically fillings have been made from several different materials.
- Composite Resin: Composite fillings are made of a mix of plastic and glass. They are white and will blend in with your natural teeth. This same material has uses in cosmetic dentistry for teeth whitening or reshaping worn or discolored teeth.
- Amalgam Fillings: The mixture of silver, tin, and other metals. They are durable and long-lasting but not aesthetically pleasing. There are also concerns over mercury content, but the American Dental Association states that they are safe and should only be removed if medically necessary.
- Gold Fillings: These are made from a gold alloy and are very strong and durable. However, gold is the most expensive material, and most patients prefer cheaper options.
Ultimately, the best type of dental filling will depend on your specific needs and budget. Our dentist will help you decide between treatment options when we create your treatment plan.
Cost of Fillings
The cost depends on several factors, including the filling material selected and your insurance coverage. Most dental insurances cover some of the cost to the patient, but coverage varies. The staff at our practice can help you determine your expected out-of-pocket cost to have the best dental experience possible.
Call our office!
Our practice is ready to help with any of your dental needs. Whether you need cosmetic or general dentistry, our dentists are prepared to help. We are taking new patients, and we offer adult and pediatric dentistry.