Tooth fillings are a common way to fix damaged or decayed teeth. They restore the function and appearance of the tooth. However, they cost more than root canal procedures. They also may chip or crack. In cases where you can’t afford a root canal, you can choose dental fillings instead.
Repair Decayed or Damaged Teeth
Dental fillings are a common way to repair decayed or damaged teeth. The procedure usually involves numbing the area around the tooth to prevent pain. Once the anesthetic has worn off, the dentist will use various tools and a drill to remove decay. The dentist will then clean the area to remove bacteria.
Cavities are the most common reason people need to have tooth filling Skippack, PA. This is because cavities can cause the tooth to become hollow and vulnerable to damage. Dental fillings are made of a material that fills the space left by decay. This material prevents decay from spreading and keeps the tooth strong and resistant to damage.
Dental fillings are made from materials, including composite resin and metal amalgam. The filling is designed to restore the tooth structure, prevent further damage, and prevent additional cavities from developing. While most fillings are designed to fill cavities, they are also used to repair broken or cracked teeth.
Restore the Appearance and Function of a Tooth
Dentists use fillings to restore missing or damaged tooth structures. They restore a tooth’s appearance and function and seal out bacteria that cause cavities. Most fillings today are made from composite materials, which bond to the tooth and provide excellent durability. These materials are also tooth-colored, blending in with the rest of the teeth and preventing the spread of bacteria.
Depending on the nature of the cavity or tooth damage, different materials may be used for fillings. Fillings typically consist of composite resin or amalgam material and blend in with the color of your natural teeth. The process is minimally invasive and only takes an hour or two to complete. These procedures are most effective for minor to moderate tooth decay, although more serious cavities will likely require more extensive treatment.
When filling a tooth, a dental professional numbs the area around the tooth. The dentist will then use a small drill to remove decay. After cleaning out the decay, the hole will be cleaned, and the filling material will be applied in layers to match the rest of your teeth.
Cost More Than a Root Canal Procedure
A root canal can be expensive, ranging from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. You may be able to use your dental insurance to cover the cost, and some dental practices even offer payment plans. You may also get insurance coverage through a health savings account (HSA). These accounts can help you defray out-of-pocket expenses, and you can deposit up to $3,350 per year, per person, or $6,750 for a family.
Metal amalgam fillings cost between $110 and $200 per tooth, lasting for about ten to twelve years. The cost depends on the extent of damage to the tooth, the number of teeth, and whether or not the dentist has to reshape the inner root canals. Metal amalgam fillings can be a bad choice if you have metal sensitivities. They may also discolor your tooth or corrode over time. Metal fillings are also more likely to fall out if not properly cared for.
Once your root canal procedure is complete, you must visit your dentist for a follow-up appointment. After your root canal procedure, your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a permanent filling or crown on your teeth. These procedures usually cost $50 to $250, but your dental insurance may cover the cost of a tooth filling.
