Composite resin fillings are a type of tooth-colored filling used to restore decayed or damaged teeth. Fillings are the most common treatment to stop the spread of cavities (dental caries) caused by tooth decay. The dentists at Total Care Dental use fillings for cavity treatment. Silver amalgam was once the most popular material, though they are no longer used for several reasons. We only use the more aesthetic and biocompatible tooth-colored composite resin fillings.
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Restorative Dentistry Wisconsin Trust for Flawless, Healthy Smiles
Fillings are the most common treatment to stop the spread of cavities (dental caries) caused by tooth decay. The comprehensive dentists at Total Care Dental in Madison provide composite resin fillings for cavity treatment. Our professionals provide life-changing dental restoration services, ensuring you have a beautiful, long-lasting smile. We keep up with the latest innovations and standards in restorative dentistry to ensure you receive only the best, most complete care for your teeth.
The Cost of Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings can on average cost between $225 and$467 per tooth. The ultimate cost will vary based on how many sides of the tooth have decayed.
Composite Resin Fillings for Cavities
A cavity is an area of decay in a tooth that must be removed and filled with resin. Also called dental caries, this is a permanently damaged area in the tooth that develops into tiny holes. Cavities are very common, with over 3 million cases in the U.S. each year. There may be no symptoms, but untreated cavities can cause toothache, infection and tooth loss.
Silver amalgam fillings have long been the standard for restoring decayed teeth. In recent years, they have been replaced by more aesthetic and biocompatible tooth-colored composite resin fillings. Resin fillings are so revolutionary, they are our preferred treatment option.
Fillings That Improve Aesthetic Appearance
Composite fillings are made of several different materials, providing a strong bond with the tooth and blending in with the natural color. Most often used to restore decayed teeth, composites are also used in cosmetic dentistry by changing the color of teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.
Following the preparation of the tooth, the dentist places the composite in layers typically using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The composite will then be polished to prevent staining and early wear.
Aesthetics are the main advantage of composites since dentists can blend shades to create a color nearly identical to that of the actual tooth.
Madison Dentists Recommend Composite Fillings over Amalgam
By bonding directly to your teeth, composite fillings restore most of the original strength of your tooth. Silver amalgam fillings do not bond to the tooth and can expand/contract with temperature changes, making them more likely to cause tooth fractures. Since broken teeth are very expensive to restore, composites can save a lot of expenses in the long run. 3 reasons we recommended composite fillings include:
Composites are mercury-free. Mercury in fillings for some patients can be toxic.
Composites require less removal of tooth structure. Especially with new cavities, the size of the hole made for the filling can be dramatically smaller with composites.
Composite fillings restore the natural appearance of the tooth.
Composite Resin fillings have become a popular choice due to their effective ability to match a tooth's color better than silver fillings. Though, the best dental filling is no filling at all. Preventative dental care will keep your teeth strong and flaw-free. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, and regularly visiting your TCD dentist will keep your teeth cavity-free. If decay causes cavities and stains, trust Total Care Dental for the best restorative dentistry services, including bonded veneers and fillings.
Long-Lasting Results with Composite Resin
Composite resin fillings take longer to apply to teeth than silver amalgam. However, spending a few extra minutes at our dental office will save you a lot of time later. The natural coloring of composite resin will last just as long as an amalgam filling without affecting the appearance of your smile.
If you currently have silver amalgam or metal fillings, you can have them replaced with composite resin. Just contact our dentists for a consultation to get started. We use the latest dental technology to determine the safety of removing and replacing your current fillings.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
A cavity that reaches the root of your tooth may require root canal therapy instead of a regular filling. If a cavity continues to grow and does not get filled, the tooth will need to be extracted to prevent the further spread of decay. The missing tooth will then be replaced with a dental implant or crown, depending on the health of your remaining teeth, gums, and jaw.
Resin fillings are used to fill cavities in teeth caused by tooth decay but could be used to fix other dental issues. They are chemically bonded to the teeth that need to be filled.
Resin fillings, also known as resin composite fillings, can on average cost between $225 and $467 per tooth. The ultimate cost will vary based on how many sides of the tooth have decayed.
Resin fillings do not last forever. These should be checked at the regular 6-month checkup, as they may need to be replaced. They are more prone to chipping, which could lead to more visits to the dentist.
Our experienced Madison dentists use a composite resin filling, which matches your natural tooth color to reduce the appearance of the filling. With proper oral care, a composite resin filling lasts approximately five to seven years.
Available Financing on Resin Fillings
Receiving composite fillings now can prevent a cavity from growing and causing an infection. This will save you money in the long run, as a filling keeps you from needing a root canal or dentures in the future. If you require financing, TCD of Madison has the financial dental plans to meet your needs. You don’t have to choose between breaking the budget and restoring your smile. We accept cash or personal check, credit cards, CareCredit cards, Illumisure, and most major insurance plans. For patients who have no dental insurance, we offer a 5% discount when $300 is paid in full before treatment.
Dental insurance companies may require the patient to pay the difference between a silver and composite filling on the back teeth. Let your Madison dentist know if you have any questions about your insurance, and we'd be happy to do a complimentary benefits check for you.
Total Care Dental offers multi-level payment options for a variety of dental care services at our Madison, WI location. Enjoy routine checkups, cleanings, x-rays, periodontal preventative care and more without the hassle of dealing with insurance companies that don't value your time or health needs.
Our team of compassionate and knowledgeable professionals create a warm, inviting atmosphere, ensuring patients of all ages feel welcome. At TCD, we treat every patient like a member of our family.