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Dental Fillings

A dental filling prevents cavities from progressing and protects your tooth. Find out why Canadians should consider getting a filling by clicking here.

Dental Fillings Stop Cavities

Most adults in Canada have at least one cavity, according to government statistics. Dental fillings fill in the hole a cavity leaves to prevent a recurrence. Installing a dental filling is the standard procedure to remedy a cavity and protect teeth from further deterioration. Avero Dental in Kitchener, Ontario installs dental fillings as part of our routine procedures in a safe, comfortable environment that minimizes discomfort.
Smiling freely in company thanks to tooth-coloured fillings
Dental care

Dental Fillings Have Changed

One of the biggest changes in the dental industry over the years has been in dental fillings. Dental fillings were once made solely of silver amalgam. Two problems existed with this material. The first was that it was highly visible and would show when you laughed or smiled. The other was that the silver amalgam contained trace amounts of mercury, which is now considered unsuitable for patients.

Modern Materials Used

Today, we use a composite resin for most fillings. The composite material is affordable, workable, and looks like your natural tooth. It is durable and blends in so no one can see your filling. Other products, like gold, can be used, but we find that the composite material is the most effective and popular.

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Getting a Dental Filling

The decision to get a dental filling follows an exam and teeth cleaning by Avero Dental professionals. Your dentist will show you the cavity on a digital X-ray and advise you to get a filling. Typically, another appointment is made for the filling.

In the process, your dentist will first apply a numbing gel to the gum around the tooth, then follow with an injection to numb the area completely. After the area numbs, the dentist will drill into the tooth to remove any decay. They wash out the space, sanitize it, and then dry it. The placement of the filling follows these steps:

  • CheckmarkThe dentist applies a bonding product to the tooth to hold the filling in place.
  • CheckmarkThey add the filling material layer by layer.
  • CheckmarkYour mouth is placed under a bright blue curing light that hardens the filling.
  • CheckmarkThe dentist will conduct a bite test where you bite down on paper to see if it feels normal.
  • CheckmarkThe final step is to smooth and polish the new filling to blend it into your tooth.
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Cavity Symptoms

Cavities aren’t always seen until they grow larger, but the symptoms of a cavity can show up much earlier. Symptoms include:
Step 1
Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and liquids
Step 2
Tooth pain, especially when consuming sugary foods or drinks
Step 3
White or dark spots on your teeth
A cavity in its earliest stage, stage 1, can be reversed with a fluoride treatment. Cavities in other stages will require a dental filling.
Preventive dental care appointment at Avero Dental

Prevention Is Better

A key benefit of getting regular dental exams and checkups is that going twice a year helps prevent more serious issues, such as cavities and gum disease, from developing. A dental exam includes teeth cleaning. Removing plaque and tartar prevents cavities and periodontitis, as well as a host of other dental problems.

Preventing dental issues will save you money in the long run by avoiding expensive treatments for later-stage problems.

FAQ

How long does a dental filling last?
Dental fillings are expected to last between five and 15 years but can last much longer with proper care.
We will numb the gum around the tooth with a topical gel and then give you an anaestethic through injection.
It depends on each case, but most can be done in an hour or less.
A dental filling is one of the less expensive dental services in the industry.

FAQs

How do I know if I need a filling?
Often you do not, which is why checkups matter. Small cavities rarely hurt. Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold, or a visible dark spot, can all be signs.
What are your fillings made of?
We use tooth coloured composite resin, which bonds to the tooth and matches your natural shade. It is more conservative than older metal fillings and far less visible.
How long does a filling take?
Most take twenty to forty minutes for a single tooth.
How long will a filling last?
Composite fillings commonly last seven to ten years or more. Good hygiene and managing any grinding extend their life.