Dental fillings: types, procedure and cost
What is a dental filling?
A dental fillingknown in dentistry as shuttering, is the most common treatment to repair a tooth damaged by the caries. The main objective of this procedure is to remove the sick dental tissue and fill the resulting cavity with a specific material. Thus, we managed to stop the advance of the caries, prevent it from reaching the nerve (which would require an endodontics) and return to the tooth its anatomy, aesthetics and original chewing function.
When the damage is very extensive and affects multiple sides of the tooth, the procedure is usually called dental reconstructionIf you have doubts about whether you need one, a simple review allows us to detect it in time before the problem goes any further.
Looking for a trusted dentist in Bizkaia? In ODONTOFAMILY We have clinics located in Bilbao and Las Arenas (Getxo). We are specialists in integral dentistry, orthodontics, dental aesthetics and implantology. Our team offers you personalized treatments with the most advanced technology. If you live nearby and need a review, ask for your first evaluation appointment with us!
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Types of dental fillings
The evolution of dentistry has made it possible to develop different materials, adapting to the functional and aesthetic needs of each patient. The two best known are:
Composite fillings (resin)
They are the undisputed kings today and those we usually use to offer you the best result. composite is a synthetic resin that offers fundamental advantages:
- Natural colour: It is made in multiple shades to imitate exactly the color of your tooth, making the filling imperceptible.
- Accession: It attaches chemically to the dental structure, which allows us to keep as much of your tooth healthy.
- Usage: It is ideal both for front teeth (for its very high aesthetics) and for molars (for its improved strength).
Mixtures of amalgam (metallic)
Silver amalgam fillings are those dark metallic fillings that were formerly used.
- Durability: They are very resistant to wear.
- Disadvantages Its aesthetic is very deficient (seems gray or black). In addition, due to the evolution of high quality composites, Today they are in disuse in our clinic and in the vast majority of the sector.
How do you make a dental filling?
The procedure is fast, routine and very protocholyzed to ensure your peace of mind:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to the area if the cavities are deep.
- Caries cleaning: We use specific instruments to gently remove all infected dental tissue.
- Insulation and preparation: We isolate the tooth to avoid moisture and apply special adhesives.
- Fill: We place the composite in layers. Each layer hardens instantly by applying a high intensity LED light.
- Polishing and adjustment: We polish the material to make it soft and shiny, and we check your bite to make sure you close your mouth completely naturally.
Do you need anesthesia for a filling?
Depends on the depth of the cavity. If it is very superficial, it is often not necessary. However, if you have reached the dentine, we apply local anesthesia. Our goal is to make your visit as comfortable as possible, without you feeling discomfort.
Does it hurt to get a filling?
No, getting a filling doesn't hurt. Thanks to the anesthesia and minimally invasive techniques we apply, the procedure is completely painless. The only thing you will notice is a slight vibration or the feeling of having to keep your mouth open for a little while, but you can be completely calm.
How long does it take to make a filling?
The estimated time to perform a dental filling usually oscillates between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the complexity and size of the cavity. It is a quick visit that you can easily fit into your daily routine. Larger reconstructions may take a little more time, but we will always inform you about it beforehand.
Care and discomfort after a dental filling
Can you eat after a filling?
- With our composite fillings: Yes, the material leaves the clinic completely hardened. but We always recommend waiting a couple of hours for the anesthesia to pass away to avoid accidentally biting your lip or tongue.
Can you have coffee after a filling?
Yes, you can have coffee without problem. Although the modern composites we use are very resistant to stains, remember that excessive consumption of coffee, tea or tobacco over the years can slightly alter the color of your teeth and fillings.
Dental sensitivity after filling: Is it normal?
Yeah, it's normal. It is common to experience a certain sensitivity to cold, heat, or biting during the first few days. The tooth has gone through a cleansing process and needs to deflate. However, if you notice that the pain is very sharp or does not disappear over time, we are always at your disposal at the clinic to review it and make sure everything evolves correctly.
How long does a good dental filling last?
A well done and careful filling can last between 5 and 10 years, or even more. Its duration will depend on your oral hygiene, whether you press your teeth (bruxism) and not miss your periodic reviews with us to check that they are still in perfect condition.
How much does a dental filling cost?
The price of a filling in Spain usually varies between 40 € and 80 €depending on the complexity of the case. If you have doubts about your budget, we encourage you to come and see us to make an accurate and uncompromising assessment.
Price of a tooth filling vs. front tooth
The cost does not depend so much on the position of the tooth, but on the amount of tissue damaged.
- Simple filling (1 face): It's usually the fastest and cheapest.
- Complex filling or reconstruction (2, 3 or more faces): It requires more material and detailed work.
- Aesthetic frontal: On the previous teeth, we put a special mime on polishing and color stratification to get a perfect mimetism with your natural smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the anesthesia last after a filling?
The feeling of numbness usually lasts between 2 and 4 hours During this time, we advise you not to chew hard things or drink very hot drinks.
What should I do if I drop an old filling?
If this has happened to you, don't panic, but don't let it happen. 1. Keep the area clean by brushing you gently after each meal. 2. Avoid chewing on that side. 3. Make an emergency appointment. A tooth without its filling is very unprotected. If it has happened to you, call us; our team will do everything possible to make a hole quickly to repair it, protecting your tooth and preventing the problem from flowing into a root canal or losing the part.
Dental filling in Bilbao
Dental filling in Las Arenas, Getxo
Dental filling in Bilbao, Bilbao
General oral health information. Your dentist’s assessment is needed to tailor any recommendation to your individual circumstances.
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