Fillings are used to treat cavities. Decay is first removed from the tooth and the area is filled. Fillings can also be used to fix cracked, broken or worn teeth.

Your dentist will be using a local anesthetic to numb the area. The decayed part will then be removed using a laser or air abrasion tool. Once the decay has been removed completely, your dentist will prepare the tooth for the filling. The tooth will be cleaned and freed from bacteria.

If the decayed area is close to the root, your dentist may put a material to protect the nerve. Once the filling has been applied, the final step will be the finishing and polishing.

For tooth-colored fillings, the material will be applied in layers. Each layer will be cured using a special light. Once the process is complete, your dentist will form the composite resin material, and then trim and polish it.

Tooth-Colored Fillings Vs. Other Filling Materials

Composites are often preferred due to cosmetic reasons. They mimic the appearance of your existing teeth and give you a natural-looking, attractive smile.

Composite resin, white filling, or tooth-colored filling is ideal for use in small to midsize fractures and teeth that endure moderate pressure from chewing. Since it looks natural, it can be placed on the front or back teeth. If the decayed area is large or is exposed to heavy chewing, your dentist may recommend another filling material.

It usually takes longer to apply tooth-colored fillings as the teeth have to be cleaned first. Eventually, the fillings may also require a replacement. If the filling recedes, bacteria can get trapped between it and the enamel, and cause tooth decay.

At Chinook Village Dental, we provide tooth-colored fillings and we can also remove and replace worn fillings.

Types of Tooth Coloured Fillings

● Porcelain fillings. Porcelain is a common filling material. Although costlier than other
filling options, this material is durable and long-lasting. The disadvantage with it is that it
can be brittle, which is why it usually isn't recommended for use in molars.

● Composite fillings. Composite fillings are applied directly to the team, making the
procedure possible in only a single dental visit. This material also costs less than other
fillings. Like porcelain, this filling also looks natural.

● Glass Ionomer. This filling material is also ideal for tooth areas that are not used for
heavy biting and chewing. The application is similar to other fillings. The area will be
cleaned first and all decay will be removed. Afterward, the glass ionomer will be applied.
It doesn’t have to be applied in layers, though. And since it’s applied directly, you can
also have it done in one appointment.

Choosing the Best Filling Material

If you feel you need dental fillings or are curious about the treatment costs, we invite you to book an initial consultation with one of our dentists at Chinook Village Dental.

We’ll help you look into possible payment options so you won’t have to delay getting the dental care treatment that you need.

We’d be happy to restore the health and function of your tooth. But as much as possible, we’ll focus on preventative measures to help you maintain good oral health.

For more information, contact our dental team in South Calgary at (587) 328-1298.

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