Fillings and Sealants
Tooth decay and cavities are common dental issues. Receiving a tooth-colored filling to restore your tooth helps prevent the problem from developing into something worse.
Dental Fillings in Baltimore, MD
Tooth fillings are a common restorative dental procedure for treating cavities or mild decay. They have a high success rate and are safe.
We offer two types of fillings: composite fillings and amalgam fillings. The filling used depends on the specific needs of each patient. However, we commonly use composite fillings because they blend in with the surrounding teeth and look more natural.
Sealants are a thin protective coating applied to teeth to prevent cavities. They are often used in children but are also suitable for adults. Sealants are a quick and affordable way to help keep your teeth healthy and prevent the need for fillings.
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What do dentists do to fix cavities?
Dentists fix cavities through a process usually involving several steps. Here’s a general overview:
- Anesthesia: To begin, we may numb the area around the cavity with local anesthesia to prevent any pain during the procedure.
- Removing decay: The dentist uses a drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
- Cleaning the cavity: After removing the decay, the dentist cleans the area to remove bacteria and debris.
- Filling the cavity: The cleaned-out cavity is filled with a filling material. Various types of filling materials include dental amalgam (silver fillings), composite resins (tooth-colored fillings), gold, or porcelain. The choice of material can depend on the cavity’s location, the patient’s preferences, and other factors like cost and insurance coverage.
- Finishing and polishing: We shape the filling material to match the tooth’s contours and then polish it to ensure it’s smooth and comfortable.
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What does it cost to fill a cavity?
It costs between $20-$475 to have a tooth filled at Hamilton Family Dentistry.
The cost depends on several factors, including the material used and the number of surfaces that need attention. Cavities in hard-to-reach areas or teeth that are more difficult to work on (like molars) can be more expensive to treat.
We pride ourselves on transparent dental pricing. Learn more about our dental office fees, here.
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How to relieve cavity pain until the dentist
If you’re experiencing cavity pain and can’t see a dentist right away, there are several methods you can try to alleviate the discomfort temporarily:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain. Follow the dosage instructions on the label carefully.
- Saltwater rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it as a mouth rinse. This can help reduce pain and inflammation and kill bacteria.
- Keep your head elevated.
- Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks.
- Apply a cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Peppermint tea bags: Cool a used peppermint tea bag and apply it to the affected area for temporary relief.
- Garlic: Garlic is known for its medicinal properties, including pain relief and bacteria reduction. Crush a garlic clove, mix it with a little salt, and apply it to the affected tooth.
Remember, these remedies only offer temporary relief. It’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to address cavity pain and prevent further dental issues properly. Hamilton Family Dentistry offers same-day dental appointments if you need an appointment urgently.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about tooth fillings and sealants, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
