Do you have a cavity in your tooth? It's important to do something about it fast! Get the details about what to expect from dental fillings here.

What are Dental Fillings?

Simply put, dental fillings reverse the damage caused by tooth decay. They provide the structure and strength you need to, well, use your teeth. And this treatment will extend the life of your tooth, too. 

Once your dentist pinpoints a cavity in your teeth, they will recommend this treatment, so long as the decay hasn't become too extensive. In such cases, you might need a more involved treatment, such as a root canal. So, if you're debating whether or not to have the procedure, we say, don't put it off. 

To give you a dental filling, your dentist will start by removing the decayed material from the inside of your tooth. They will use a drill to do this, but don't worry — they will likely use a numbing agent to ensure you don't feel a thing. 

Next, they will clean out your cavity to prepare it for what's next. Then, they will use one of the several dental filling materials out there — more on that later. 

Again, it's worth getting this treatment as soon as your dentist recommends one. It will save you money — the typical out-of-pocket cost for one application is $395. Compare that to a root canal, which could cost upwards of $1,100, according to 2020 averages. 



And, of course, if you have dental insurance, the cost of this service will likely be even less. Talk to your dentist about costs before scheduling your service. 

Types of Dental Fillings

Now that you know what a dental filling is — and why you should get one — let's go over the types from which you can choose. 

You may be wary of having dental work like this because you've seen others with silver fillings. They are easy to spot — a silver plate stands out against white teeth. However, at Complete Health Dentistry, we do not use silver fillings. 

Usually, these amalgam layers contain a trace amount of mercury, which can seep out over time. The ADA says that an amalgam is still a safe option, but we don't use it. We strive to keep our patients safe, and that means we avoid what could be dangerous materials. 

Instead, we offer these options for our patients in Honesdale, PA. 

Gold Fillings

We recognize that gold may not be for everyone since they have a very distinctive look. However, gums tend to tolerate the top-of-the-line metal easily. They can last for decades without irritating your mouth. 

On top of that, gold is high-quality and durable. So, if you only want to come in once to fix your cavity, then gold might be the right material for you. 

In order to get a gold filling, you'll have to come into the dentist twice. First, we will take an impression of your tooth, which will then be sent to a lab. There, it will be engineered to fit your tooth perfectly. 

Next, you'll come in for another appointment, during which we'll adhere it to your tooth. We use cement to get the gold piece to stay in place permanently. 

Composite-Bonded Resin

Perhaps you envision a material that matches the exact shade of your teeth. If so, then one made of composite-bonded resin could be the right option for you. 

Composites are made of powdered glass and acrylic resin. We can select a shade to match your teeth, making it very difficult to detect it once it's in place. 

Not all cavities will disappear beneath composite-bonded resin, though. This material isn't quite as durable as gold, for example. So, you shouldn't go with this option if your filling will sit on a biting surface or if you have a deeper cavity to fill. 

It's important to know that this material takes a bit longer to apply than, say, a gold one. That's because composite dental fillings require more technical skill to implement. So, expect a longer appointment if you opt for a composite. 

Porcelain

A larger cavity may call for porcelain, which can cover most of the tooth. 

Your dentist will take an impression of your tooth to create a porcelain piece. In some cases, you may need a temporary one while the porcelain piece is being made. At Complete Health Dentistry, we make porcelain fillings in-office, so we can easily predict how long it will take to create and implement one for you. 

Like a composite, a porcelain one will be made to match the color of your teeth. Many patients prefer this material because it resists staining and proves very durable. 

Once your porcelain filling has been created in-office, we will bond it to your tooth. Then, it's back to normal — confident and comfortable chewing is on the horizon, thanks to your new porcelain addition. 

Time for a Dental Filling? 

Perhaps you've read this and realized it's time to schedule an appointment for your dental fillings. If so, you know who to call in the Honesdale, PA area. 



At Complete Health Dentistry, this is just one of the many services we provide to ensure the health and longevity of your smile. Click here to contact us today to set up an appointment and get you one step closer to a smile that makes you proud.