Dental fillings provide a quick and effective way to preserve tooth enamel damaged by decay. At Family Smile Dental in New York City, the team of experienced dentists use tooth-colored fillings to repair cavities and restore smiles. To make an appointment, call the nearest office in the Sheepshead Bay or Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, or book online today.
What are fillings?
A dental filling repairs damage to your tooth enamel caused by a cavity.
Traditionally, dental fillings were made from a mixture of different metals. At Family Smile Dental, the team uses tooth-colored fillings. These fillings don’t contain toxic materials and they look like your tooth enamel, so they blend in with your smile and look completely natural.
What does getting a filling involve?
At Family Smile Dental, getting a filling takes a single visit.
First, your provider reviews your dental records, completes an oral exam, and orders a series of digital X-rays. If your X-rays reveal damage to your tooth enamel caused by decay, you qualify for a filling.
Your provider administers a local anesthetic to numb your mouth and uses special tools to remove the decaying portion of your tooth enamel. Then, they clean your tooth with an antiseptic solution, eliminating the remaining bacteria and debris.
After preparing your tooth, your provider applies the tooth-colored filling with a handheld brush. Tooth-colored fillings are applied one layer at a time. Your provider uses a special light to dry and harden each layer. Then, they shape the composite material to look like your natural tooth and check your bite.
Last, your provider cleans your teeth and explains how to keep your filling in optimal condition.
How long do fillings last?
The time that dental fillings last depends on various factors, including the location of the filling and how well you take care of it. Most composite fillings last between 12-15 years*, but you can extend their lifespan by practicing good oral hygiene.
The team recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting Family Smile Dental every six months for preventive teeth cleanings. You should also avoid bad habits like nail-biting, opening packaging with your teeth, or chewing on ice.
Are fillings covered by dental insurance?
Most dental insurance policies provide at least some coverage for fillings. If you’re curious about what your policy covers, contact your insurance provider before making an appointment with the team at Family Smile Dental.
To learn more about dental fillings, make an appointment at Family Smile Dental by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
*Individual results may vary.