
Make Teeth Look and Feel Natural Again
Restoring damaged teeth is a routine procedure in our office, helping prevent decay or infection that may need more extensive treatment. We use composite resin fillings matched to your tooth’s color. Unlike metal fillings, this material bonds effectively and fills smaller areas with less drilling.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
Many people delay getting a filling, especially if their tooth doesn’t hurt yet, wondering if it’s really necessary. However, addressing cavities promptly is essential, and here’s why:
- Prevent cavities from worsening.
- Avoid painful infections or abscesses.
- Strengthen teeth weakened by decay.
- Save money on future dental treatments.
- Reduce sensitivity to temperature changes.
- Protect your natural smile for years to come.
How Is a Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
To ensure your comfort, we carefully numb the gums before freezing the area. This step often causes anxiety, but the freezing ensures your tooth and surrounding area are numb, so the procedure is virtually painless.
Filling the Tooth
Once you’re fully numb, the tooth is cleaned and prepared. An adhesive gel is applied, followed by composite resin, which is shaped to fit your bite and tooth contours.
Curing the Composite
A special LED light is used to harden the composite resin rapidly. Once set, the dentist carefully examines the tooth, makes any needed refinements, and polishes it for a flawless finish.
The Cost of a Filling in Ruston
Most insurance plans cover a significant portion of cavity treatment, making it an affordable way to prevent dental issues. Depending on your insurance, out-of-pocket costs can range from $0 to $100+. Without insurance, expenses typically range from $120 to $300 or more, especially for multiple fillings.
Several factors influence the final cost of treatment:
- Your oral health condition.
- The number of fillings required.
- The location of the cavity.
- Whether new x-rays are needed.
- The time needed for the procedure.
- The equipment and materials used for your care.
Treating cavities promptly helps prevent more complex procedures, reduces pain, and supports your long-term dental health.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper oral hygiene, including daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits, fillings can remain durable for more than ten years.
In the past, fillings were made from a material called dental amalgam, often referred to as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. While their safety has been debated, the American Dental Association states that research has not proven a link between amalgam fillings and illness in the general population. If you have silver fillings, there’s no need for concern.
Temporary over-the-counter products may provide a short-term fix for a cavity or minor tooth damage, but they cannot replace professional dental care. Cavities are permanent damage that require cleaning, preparation, and filling by a dentist. Neglecting dental decay can result in severe complications, such as abscesses or tooth loss.
If severe pain disrupts your ability to eat or sleep, it’s considered a dental emergency—call us right away. We can provide guidance and arrange to see you promptly. For temporary relief, apply a cold compress to the area and consider taking pain relievers such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil), following the instructions on the label and your doctor’s advice. Keep track of the medication, dose, and time taken so you can inform us during your visit.