Dental Fillings
Even if you practice great oral hygiene and take measures to avoid tooth decay, you can still develop a cavity for a variety of reasons.
While cavities are very common, they must be taken seriously. Without treatment, decay continues to spread and erode your natural teeth.
Fortunately, the team at Enlighten Dental can restore your health with a filling in a single appointment at our Vancouver, BC, office.
Ready to Get Started?
Request an appointment at Enlighten Dental today by calling (604) 876-9228
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is used to repair a cavity (a small hole) in the tooth caused by bacteria. Your dentist removes the decayed portion of the enamel to prevent the cavity from growing larger. The cavity is then filled with an appropriate restorative material such as porcelain, composite resin, or amalgam, creating what is known as a dental filling.
We have selected materials that are most universally compatible with the human body based on decades of experience with biocompatibility testing.
Selecting a Material for Your Filling
Our Vancouver, BC, patients currently have more choices than ever when it comes to their dental filling. While historically a filling meant silver metal amalgam, modern fillings are much more natural and aesthetically pleasing. Porcelain and composite resin are enamel-colored materials that are safe and biocompatible. In addition to blending in seamlessly with your natural tooth, these materials are also durable as amalgam fillings.
Of course, every patient has unique needs and personal preferences when it comes to their dental restoration. Our goal is to thoroughly explain your options, answer your questions, and help you arrive at the best decision.
Safe Amalgam Filling Removal
If you had a cavity filled with metal amalgam in the past and are not satisfied with the appearance, you do not need to wait for the filling to run its natural course. The team at Enlighten Dental is happy to replace noticeable amalgam fillings with a modern tooth-colored alternative.
We believe that amalgam removal and other holistic techniques can also benefit your overall health. Our goal is to reduce the amount of non-biocompatible materials that go into restoring your teeth. During mercury amalgam removal treatment, we will safely extract the metal material and assess the condition of your tooth. Then we refill the cavity with an alternative biocompatible material like composite resin. If you are interested in learning more about tooth-colored fillings or other forms of holistic dentistry, please contact our Vancouver office today.
Types of Dental Fillings
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are made primarily from acrylic-based resin and can last up to 10 years.
Pros:
- Tooth-colored and natural-looking
- Can be applied fast
- More affordable than some other materials
Porcelain Fillings
A porcelain filling is a custom-made restoration that can last 15 years or longer. Porcelain is used for inlays and onlays.
Pros:
- Natural-looking
- Strong and resilient
- Stain-resistant
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are made from a blend of gold and other metals like silver and copper. They can last for 20 years or more.
Pros:
- Longest lasting option
- Aesthetic preference
- Biocompatible
Holistic dentistry involves using natural materials and more conservative techniques to restore your teeth. Our tooth-colored fillings are non-toxic and just as effective as amalgam metals.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A dental filling procedure is generally fast and simple. Nevertheless, we want to explain all the steps to help you feel prepared and comfortable. Here is what to expect when you come to our Vancouver office to receive a standard composite filling.
After placing the filling, we will check your bite and make sure the tooth surface is smooth and polished.
Filling Maintenance and Aftercare
There is very little you have to do to maintain your dental filling. The materials we use for fillings are highly durable and can withstand the same pressure as your natural teeth. The best way to protect a dental filling is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes:
Brushing and Flossing
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to better combat decay. We also recommend flossing at least once a day to remove plaque from hard-to-reach places.
Limiting Sugar Intake
As you probably know, sugary foods and beverages can put you at higher risk of tooth decay. Be mindful of your sugar intake and strive for a well-balanced, healthy diet.
Visiting the Dentist
Make a habit of visiting our Vancouver office for a dental checkup at least twice a year. Regular exams address tartar buildup and halt tooth decay before it can cause permanent damage.
Will Treatment Hurt?
Most of our Vancouver patients experience no pain when getting a filling. If you have concerns about discomfort, we can offer dental sedation in addition to local anesthesia to help you feel at ease.
