Get Pain-Free Dental Fillings in Johannesburg - Book Now!
Restore your decayed teeth with pain-free dental fillings. Our skilled dentists in Johannesburg offer a range of filling materials to suit your needs.
Providing Quality Dentistry
with Experienced Doctors
Get a dental health checkup with a dentist that has your best interest in mind and offers fair rates.
1. Book An Appointment
Visit our website and book an appointment with one of our experienced dentists.
2. Come In For A Consultation
Our team will sit down with you and discuss your dental needs and goals.
3. Get The Perfect Smile
We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that will get you the perfect smile.
Introduction
Dental fillings are a common dental procedure used to treat cavities and prevent further damage to the teeth. Our experienced dental team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health and providing personalized care to meet your unique needs.
We use the latest technology and materials to ensure that your dental fillings are durable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing.
Whether you need a single filling or multiple restorations, we are committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our goal is to help you maintain a healthy, functional, and attractive smile that you can be proud of for years to come.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are several types of fillings available for dental cavities. The most common types of fillings are:
- Amalgam Fillings: Amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They are known for their durability, strength, and low cost. They can last for 10-15 years or more. One of the main advantages of amalgam fillings is their ability to withstand heavy chewing forces, which makes them ideal for use in the back teeth.
- Composite Fillings: Composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass. They are tooth-colored and blend in with the natural color of teeth. They are more aesthetically pleasing than amalgam fillings and are often used in front teeth or other visible areas. They are less durable than amalgam fillings, lasting for 5-7 years or more, and may require more frequent replacement.
- Gold Fillings: Gold fillings are made of gold alloy and are highly durable and long-lasting. They can last for up to 20 years or more. Gold fillings are biocompatible and do not cause any allergic reactions. However, they are expensive and may not be suitable for visible areas.
- Ceramic Fillings: Ceramic fillings, also known as porcelain fillings, are made of porcelain material that is customized to match the natural color of teeth. They are highly aesthetic and durable, lasting for 10-15 years or more. They are more expensive than composite fillings but are a popular choice for visible teeth.
The advantages of each type of filling are:
- Amalgam fillings are durable, strong, and inexpensive.
- Composite fillings are tooth-colored and blend in with the natural color of teeth, making them aesthetically pleasing.
- Gold fillings are highly durable and long-lasting and do not cause any allergic reactions.
- Ceramic fillings are highly aesthetic and durable, lasting for a long time.
Signs You Need a Dental Filling
Some common signs that you may need a dental filling include:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Visible pits or holes in the tooth surface
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- Rough or jagged edges on the tooth surface
- Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing
The Dental Filling Procedure
Filling a tooth typically involves the following steps:
- Numbing the tooth: The dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to make the procedure more comfortable.
- Removing decay: The dentist will use a drill or laser to remove the decayed part of the tooth.
- Cleaning the cavity: Once the decay is removed, the dentist will clean the cavity to ensure there are no bacteria or debris left in the tooth.
- Applying a bonding agent: The dentist will apply a bonding agent to help the filling material stick to the tooth.
- Placing the filling material: The dentist will place the filling material into the cavity and shape it to fit the tooth.
- Curing the filling material: Depending on the type of filling material used, the dentist may use a special light or chemical to harden the filling material.
- Polishing the filling: The dentist will polish the filling to make it smooth and blend in with the rest of the tooth.
After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort, but this should subside within a few days. It’s important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, to maintain the longevity of your filling.
Before and after picture of dental filling
Post-Filling Care After getting a filling
It’s important to take care of your teeth to prevent further decay. We recommend brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding sugary or acidic foods and drinks.
Patients should also come in for regular checkups to ensure the filling is holding up and to detect any new decay early on.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
There are several benefits of getting a dental filling
- Prevents further decay: Fillings are used to treat cavities and prevent further decay in the affected tooth. If left untreated, decay can spread and cause more serious dental problems.
- Restores tooth function and appearance: Fillings can restore the tooth’s structure and function, making it easier to eat, chew, and speak. They also help to improve the appearance of the tooth, especially if the filling material used matches the natural color of the tooth.
- Maintains tooth structure: Fillings help to maintain the natural structure of the tooth by filling in the hole or cavity caused by decay. This can prevent the need for more invasive procedures, such as root canals or extractions.
- Helps to prevent tooth sensitivity: If a cavity is left untreated, it can expose the nerve of the tooth and cause sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Fillings can prevent this sensitivity by sealing the cavity and protecting the nerve.
- Can be customized to your needs: There are several types of filling materials available, including amalgam, composite, ceramic, and gold. Your dental team can help you choose the best option for your needs based on factors such as cost, durability, and appearance.
Overall, dental fillings are a common and effective treatment option for cavities and other types of dental decay. They help to prevent further damage to the tooth, restore its function and appearance, and maintain its natural structure.
What not to do when you get fillings?
After getting dental fillings, there are a few things you should avoid doing to ensure that your filling sets properly and to prevent any complications. Here are some things to avoid after getting fillings:
- Eating or Drinking: Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after getting a filling. This will give the filling time to set and harden properly.
- Chewing on Hard Foods: Avoid chewing on hard or crunchy foods, such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy, for a few days after getting a filling. These foods can put pressure on the filling and cause it to crack or break.
- Drinking Hot or Cold Beverages: Avoid drinking hot or cold beverages, such as coffee or ice water, for the first few hours after getting a filling. The temperature changes can cause sensitivity and discomfort in the treated tooth.
- Brushing or Flossing Vigorously: Avoid brushing or flossing vigorously around the area of the filling for the first few days. This can cause irritation and sensitivity in the treated tooth.
- Smoking: Avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least 24 hours after getting a filling. Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
It’s important to follow the dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure that the filling sets properly and to prevent any complications. If you experience any pain or sensitivity after getting a filling, contact your dentist right away.
Does dental insurance cover the cost of fillings?
Dental insurance plans typically cover the cost of dental fillings, but the amount of coverage and the type of filling material covered may vary depending on the plan.
Some dental insurance plans may cover only a portion of the cost of fillings, while others may cover the full cost. Additionally, some plans may have restrictions on the type of filling material that is covered, such as only covering silver amalgam fillings or only covering tooth-colored composite fillings.
It’s important to review your dental insurance plan to understand what is covered and what your out-of-pocket expenses may be. You can also check with your dentist’s office to confirm their fees for fillings and whether they participate in your dental insurance plan.
Restoration of each type of dental filling
Restorations refer to the process of restoring a damaged or decayed tooth to its original form and function. There are different restorative materials that are used. The type of restoration used for each type of filling can vary depending on the extent of damage or decay. The most common restorations for each type of filling are:
- Amalgam Fillings: The restoration for amalgam fillings is typically a direct filling, where the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the cavity with the amalgam material. In some cases, if the decay is extensive, a crown may be necessary to protect and restore the tooth.
- Composite Fillings: composite restoration is also typically a direct filling. The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the cavity with the composite material. In some cases, a bonding agent may be used to help the filling adhere to the tooth.
- Gold Fillings: The restoration for gold fillings can be either a direct or indirect filling. For a direct filling, the dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the cavity with the gold material. For an indirect filling, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth and sends it to a dental laboratory to create a custom-made gold filling, which is then cemented onto the tooth.
- Ceramic Fillings: The restoration for ceramic fillings is typically an indirect filling. The dentist takes an impression of the tooth and sends it to a dental laboratory to create a custom-made ceramic filling, which is then cemented onto the tooth. In some cases, a bonding agent may be used to help the filling adhere to the tooth. If the decay is extensive, a crown may be necessary to protect and restore the tooth.
Alternatives to dental fillings
There are several alternatives to traditional dental fillings, including:
- Dental Bonding: A tooth-colored resin material is applied to the surface of the tooth and then hardened with a special light. Dental bonding can be used to repair small chips or cracks in teeth.
- Inlays and Onlays: Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that are used to repair larger cavities. They are made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin and are bonded to the tooth.
- Dental Crowns: A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth. It is typically used when the tooth has extensive damage or decay.
- Dental Implants: If a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling or other restoration, it may need to be extracted. A dental implant is a permanent replacement for a missing tooth.
- Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride treatments can be used to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent further decay. This is typically done in conjunction with other treatments, such as fillings or dental bonding.
It’s important to note that the best treatment option for you will depend on the extent of the damage or decay, as well as your overall oral health. Your dentist can help you determine which option is right for you.
Why choose Hills Dental studio for your fillings
Here are some reasons why you might consider choosing Hills Dental Studio for your fillings:
- Experienced and Skilled Dentists: Hills Dental Studio has a team of experienced and skilled dentists who are trained to provide high-quality dental services, including fillings. They use the latest techniques and materials to ensure that your fillings are durable and long-lasting.
- Comfortable Environment: The clinic is designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing environment for patients. They have modern dental equipment and comfortable dental chairs to ensure that you feel at ease during your treatment.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Hills Dental Studio offers personalized treatment plans for every patient. They take the time to understand your dental needs and goals, and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific requirements.
- Positive Reviews: Hills Dental Studio has received many positive reviews from satisfied patients. You can read these reviews on their website or on other online platforms.
Overall, if you are looking for a dental clinic that provides high-quality fillings in a comfortable and personalized environment, Hills Dental Studio could be a great option to consider.
Hills Dental Studio Treatments
Hills Dental Studio is a leading dental practice that provides exceptional dental care to patients of all ages. Our team of experienced and compassionate dentists offers a wide range of dental services, including general, cosmetic, aesthetic, emergency, and orthodontic care.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can submit a contact request if you have more questions or email info@hillsdentalstudios.com
How long should a filling stay in a tooth?
The lifespan of a filling can vary depending on several factors, including the type of filling, the location of the filling, the size of the filling, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. Generally, fillings can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. On average, dental fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, but some can last even longer.
Amalgam fillings (made from a mixture of metals) can last up to 10 to 15 years, while composite fillings (made from a tooth-colored resin) may last up to 5 to 7 years. Gold fillings can last for 15 to 20 years or longer. The lifespan of a ceramic filling can vary depending on the specific material used.
Do fillings hurt without an injection?
Dental fillings may cause discomfort or pain during or after the procedure, but local anesthesia is usually used to numb the area and prevent any pain or discomfort during the procedure. In some cases, the dentist may also use additional pain management techniques, such as sedation, to help the patient feel more comfortable during the procedure.
Without local anesthesia, getting a dental filling can be uncomfortable or painful because the dentist needs to remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth, and this can cause sensitivity and discomfort. However, some patients may choose to forego the use of anesthesia if they have a fear of needles or if they are allergic to the anesthesia.
Which type of dental filling is better?
There are several types of dental fillings available, and the best type of filling depends on various factors, including the location and extent of the decay, the patient’s oral health, and their personal preferences.
What are the risks associated with dental fillings?
Some patients may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting a dental filling. There is also a risk of the filling cracking or falling out over time. Additionally, some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the filling material used.
How can I prevent the need for dental fillings?
To prevent the need for dental fillings, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. You should also avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can increase your risk of tooth decay.
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