Dental fillings are one of the most common general dentistry procedures a dentist performs in any office, including ours. Fillings serve the important purpose of restoring tooth structure damaged or lost due to decay. Dr. Kalochie places metal-free white fillings made of composite resin, porcelain ceramic, or zirconia.
She also places inlays or onlays when treating tooth decay or cavities in larger teeth with multiple cusps. A dental filling promotes long-term dental health and helps you avoid further infection or damage that could result in tooth loss.
Dental Fillings: what is the process?
We can often complete a dental filling in one office visit. Dr. Kalochie will recommend the most suitable material and type of filling placement for the location and severity of your tooth decay or damage. Dr. Kalochie will begin the process by focusing on your comfort and administering a local anesthetic to numb the treated area. The next step is to remove the infected or damaged tooth structure and clean the area before placing the filling.
Dr. Kalochie uses high-quality materials to place your new filling. She color-matches the composite resin or ceramic to match your smile. When complete, your filling will blend seamlessly and fit comfortably. The material will be cured with a special light, and the surface will be polished for a smooth texture. Dental fillings will last for many years with good oral hygiene and routine dental care.
Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are also known as partial crowns. They are highly durable and can withstand strong biting forces. The dentist places an inlay between the cusps on the top of the tooth. An onlay will cover a tooth cusp for a larger restoration.
Dr. Kalochie will recommend placing this type of restoration if the cavity is located in a larger back tooth or there is extensive damage to the tooth. Similar to a dental crown procedure, this type of dental restoration will require a couple of office visits to place.
The first visit will include removing damaged or infected tooth structure and taking dental impressions. We will then place a temporary restoration to protect the tooth while a lab creates your onlay or onlay. At the follow-up visit, we will place the final inlay or onlay and permanently secure it to the tooth.
Dental Filling FAQs
Is a dental filling painful?
Once we administer the local anesthetic, you will feel only mild pressure while we prepare the tooth and place the filling. After this wears off, you may experience minor discomfort, but over-the-counter pain medication is typically sufficient. Dr. Kalochie is highly skilled and experienced in placing dental fillings, providing exceptional care and results for patients with tooth decay.
Does dental insurance cover dental fillings?
Every insurance company is different, but if you have dental benefits, they may cover at least a part of the cost of your dental filling. We will work with you to provide an estimate of your portion of the cost. We can submit a request to your insurance company for direct reimbursement.
Can I eat after a dental filling?
One of the benefits of composite and ceramic fillings is that once cured with a special light, the surface hardens. While it is possible to eat right away, we may recommend avoiding crunchy or sticky foods or snacks for a few hours until the local anesthetic has worn off.
While numb, it is possible to bite down with greater strength or at an angle that could damage your teeth. The dentist also recommends it to protect the gums and soft tissues irritated after the procedure.