Approximately more than 91% of adults aged between 20-64 have had cavities. By the time they hit 65, this number is expected to rise to 96%. Cavity filling is a method to treat cavities. So what is it? And how much does it cost?
What is cavity filling?
Cavities are a hole in your tooth that is often caused by bacteria. Habits like eating candy and unhealthy foods and not brushing your teeth can cause the bacteria to grow.
Symptoms that develop from cavities often appear at the later phase of cavity development. If a cavity is detected early, then permanent tooth decay might be reversible. Early symptoms of cavities are:
- Tooth pain
- Sensitive teeth
- Moderate pain once eating or drinking
- Visible openings in your teeth
- Discoloration of the teeth (black and yellow)
Cavity filling is the process of filling the cavity by your dentist with multiple resources and materials. Your dentist will consult with you on all the available options and treatment methods. The treatment methods are:
Composite resin
A mix of tooth-colored glass and quartz filler that provides good durability and resistance.
Dental amalgam
This silver-colored filling is a combination of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It is highly resistant and durable and has been used for generations by dentists.
Gold filling
Also called inlays is a mix of gold and copper. This costly mix is the most durable out of all options.
Before the treatment, a nurse will guide you to a dental chair. And prepare all the tools and drugs. You may receive a numbing gas or local anesthesia to the gum.
The procedure begins by removing the decay with a drill or laser. This is done to clean the tooth from bacteria and debris before the filling. The targeted tooth is isolated with a rubber dam to prevent moisture (saliva) from contacting the filling mixture. The resin is then applied to the targeted area along with adhesive. A special bonding light will be used to speed up the drying process.
After the restoration, the resin tooth is natural-looking and functions typically.
You might experience common tooth pain after the filling. This is due to:
Tooth sensitivity
Teeth that recently received fillings tend to be more sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks, air temperature, and biting pressure. This should pass after a few weeks.
Cracked or loose filling
Improper application of the filling to the tooth or the filling is cracked can cause constant tooth pain.
Allergic reactions
Some people have allergic reactions to the material used in filling. It is important to tell your doctor about your allergies before the filling process.
Your dentist will prescribe a bunch of dental care products to care for your new tooth filling. From flossing and gentle brushing twice a day and dentist visits twice a year.
Cavity fillings last for a long time. Some last longer than others:
Resin: 5-10 years
Silver: 10-15 years
Gold: 15-30 years
Cavity fill cost without insurance
Cavity filling costs solely depend on the type of filling, the dentist, the location, and the number of teeth. Composite resin can cost upwards of $150 for the tooth, while silver filling can cost $250 per tooth.
Cavity fill cost with insurance
Most dental insurance plans will cover cavity filling, visits, consulting, and all other related expenses. You can expect to pay $89 for composite resin per tooth. If you want to know which insurance providers cover the cost of cavity fillings, you can consult our experts at The Art Of Insurance free of charge.
Cavity fillings are a safe, quick, and cheap process to treat dental problems and cavities. The easy and efficient procedure makes it a popular treatment method for many adults that last for years.
