Cavity Fillings in Calgary AB | Bioclear Restorations

Dental Fillings An Overview

Dental fillings are the most common solutions for cavities. For patients with damaged, decayed, or infected teeth, we may also recommend a dental filling. A well placed dental filling can help restore a tooth to normal function, and help reduce the risk of further decay.

Traditionally, teeth can be filled with porcelain, silver amalgam, gold, tooth-colored, or composite resin dental fillings. However, many dentists opt for composite resin dental fillings because they offer the most natural looking solution for decayed teeth.

Our general dentistry team will consider certain factors before recommending the appropriate type of filling for your smile. Foothills Dentistry offers a full range of general dentistry services that we can tailor to match your specific needs.

After a thorough evaluation, we will determine if a dental filling or another treatment is right for you. To learn more about dental fillings or explore your general dentistry services, visit our Calgary dentist office.

Cavity Prevention

Knowing the proper ways to enhance your dental health and prevent cavities is useful at any age. Our dental care team can work with you on an individual basis to asses your risk for cavities and create a prevention plan that is tailored to your needs.

In the meantime, try to incorporate these key tips to help enhance your dental health.

Drink water after each meal
Reduce the amount of added sugar to your diet
Develop and practice a healthy oral hygiene routine
Visit the dentist office at least twice a year for routine dental examination

Choosing White Dental Fillings

Composite resin dental fillings can be color matched to blend with your existing teeth. Most dentists recommend composite resin, or tooth-colored, dental fillings because they offer a natural looking, long-lasting solution to tooth decay and damage. We will work with you to determine what type of dental filling is right for your smile.

Dental Fillings What to Expect

The dental filling is a simple process that can be completed in one visit to our Calgary dentist office. To ensure ultimate patient comfort, we may give you a local anesthetic to numb the area around the teeth.

Your dentist will remove carefully remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth. Once the decay is removed, your dentist will thoroughly clean the tooth to prepare it for the chosen filling material.

In some cases, the affected tooth will need to be etched before the filling material is applied. In cases using composite resin, the material is layered onto the tooth and cured using a special light.

The last step involves making adjustments to the filling so your bite feels normal. The tooth is then polished for a finishing touch. A dental filling appointment should last less than an hour, however it could take longer if you have more than one affected tooth.

Schedule A Consultation

If you have not visited the dentist recently, or notice any changes in your dental health, we encourage you to visit Foothills Dentistry for a dental examination. We are committed to helping each of our patients achieve better dental health and work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your dentistry needs. To schedule an appointment, call or request an appointment online.

Dental Fillings FAQs

How many fillings can a dentist do in one appointment?: Dentists may fill multiple cavities in one appointment, especially if they are all in the same area. In general it takes about 20 minutes for each filling. A general rule of thumb is to do around 3 fillings in an appointment, so that patients are not sitting in the chair for hours at a time. There is not a limit, this is just common practice.
What do fillings feel like after?: After a filling your mouth may feel numb for a few hours. Some patients may feel like their teeth and gums feel sore as well. Sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks is common for a few days after receiving a filling, but it should go away shortly.
What not to eat after filling?: Dentists recommend that patients avoid eating for a few hours after a filling. It is wise to wait until the feeling of numbness has left your mouth. Patients should avoid foods such as chips, granola, candy, popcorn, gum, and ice. All of these are hard or chewy foods that could pull out your filling.
How long do dental fillings last?: Dental fillings typically last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. The longevity of dental fillings will depend on the material the dentist uses and the individual’s oral health. For instance, fillings made from composite resins can last up to 10 years, while amalgam (silver) materials generally last 5-15 years. Additionally, dental fillings require regular checkups with a dentist to ensure they are in good condition.
Do dental hygienists do fillings?: No. Dental hygienists do not perform dental fillings. Their primary responsibilities include cleaning teeth, taking dental X-rays, and providing oral hygiene education to dental patients. Dental hygienists are not responsible for diagnosing or treating dental issues, nor can they perform fillings, extractions, or other dental procedures. However, dental hygienists do provide support to the dentist during these procedures.
Are dental fillings painful?: Getting a dental filling is generally not painful. The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth before the procedure. You may feel some pressure or vibration during the process, but it should not be painful. After the anesthesia wears off, it’s normal to experience mild sensitivity or discomfort in the area for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers or sensitivity toothpaste can help alleviate these symptoms. However, consult your dentist if you experience pain or discomfort after a few days.

Dental Fillings Calgary, AB