What You Need to Know About Dental Fillings: How They Work, Benefits, and Insurance

Dental fillings are usually the first way we repair a tooth when a cavity appears or it gets damaged. They close off the decay so it doesn’t spread and bring the tooth back to its normal shape, strength, and function.

Clove Dental provides long-lasting, high-quality tooth fillings created from safe materials. We can help you recover your dental health. Whether you have tooth pain or need to replace old fillings.

Here’s what dental fillings do and what you can expect when you come in for an appointment.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Minor to severe tooth damage can be repaired with dental fillings. They usually treat cavities brought on by tooth deterioration. However, teeth that have been worn down, chipped, or cracked can be restored with fillings.

A filling's main goals are to seal off the damaged area, restore oral function, and stop further deterioration.

Types of Dental Filling Materials

Not all fillings are the same. Some people want something that blends in. Others just want the strongest fix. Here’s how it usually goes:

• Composite resin blends right in with your natural tooth color, so it’s a great pick for front teeth or any spot that shows when you smile.
• Amalgam has a silver tone and is known for its durability. It’s often used on back teeth since those handle most of the chewing.
• Gold might stand out more and cost a bit more, too, but it holds up incredibly well over time; some people still prefer it for that reason.

When Do You Need One?

You might need a filling for any of the following reasons:

• You can see a cavity or clear tooth decay.
• Your teeth feel sensitive when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet.
• You notice a sharp pain when you bite down or chew.
• The tooth is cracked or chipped.
• An older filling has become loose or fallen out.

What Happens During the Dental Filling Procedure?

At our dental office, we try to make the entire process painless, quick, and comfortable.

• Our initial step is to take digital X-rays and examine the tooth. This allows us to gauge the full extent of the damage.
• We will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth.
• We remove the decayed or broken part of the tooth.
• The filling material is placed in and shaped so your bite feels normal.
• We smooth and polish the filling so it blends in with the tooth.

You may resume your normal activities shortly after the procedure, which typically takes less than an hour per tooth.

What are the Benefits of Dental Fillings?

• Prevents Tooth Decay: Fillings stop cavities and protect your tooth from further damage. 
• Restores Function: You can once again talk, eat, and bite normally.
• Prevents Tooth Loss: Filling will help you restore the natural shape of your tooth. If tooth decay is not treated, it can cause infection or require extraction.
• Enhances Aesthetics: By naturally merging in, tooth-colored fillings improve the appearance of your smile.
• Quick and Painless: Contemporary fillings may be placed quickly and with little discomfort.

How long can a dental filling hold up?

To prolong the life of your fillings:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Make sure to floss every day.
• Try not to chew on hard things like ice or pens.
• Come in for a cleaning and checkup every 6 months.

Insurance Coverage for Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are often covered by dental insurance. In particular, if deterioration or damage makes them medically required.

•   The majority of the main insurance policies are accepted at Clove Dental.
•   Before treatment, our staff will confirm your insurance benefits.
•   Any out-of-pocket expenses will be estimated for you.
•   We explain your coverage and assist you in submitting insurance claims.

To find out exactly what your plan covers, it's also a good idea to contact us directly.

 What Happens If You Have No Dental Insurance?

 In order to make your treatment inexpensive, we provide various solutions.

•  Internal financing alternatives
•  Clear pricing with no additional costs
•  Exclusive deals for families and new patients

 Our front desk staff will explain the prices to you and assist you in selecting a plan that suits your spending limit.

Why Patients Choose Clove Dental for Fillings

People come to Clove Dental because we treat them like people, not just another case.

• We listen first: We don’t rush into treatment. We ask questions and explain what’s going on so you know exactly what’s happening before we start.
• We keep it easy: A filling shouldn’t feel scary. We go slowly, talk you through the steps, and make sure you’re comfortable the whole time. Most patients are surprised at how quick and simple it ends up being.
• Your filling won’t stand out: We match the color of the filling to your tooth, so it blends in. You can smile without worrying that anyone will notice.
• We use tools that make sense: Digital X-rays, good quality materials, nothing flashy, just what’s needed to make sure your tooth is fixed right and stays that way.
• No billing headaches: We explain costs up front, help with insurance, and work around your schedule so your visit is easy from start to finish.

At Clove Dental, you’re not treated like a number. We want you to feel at home here and leave with your smile in better shape than when you came in.

Book Your Appointment Today

Pain in the teeth does not go away on its own, and delaying a filling may cause a small problem. Clove Dental is ready to properly restore your smile. Whether you have a first cavity or need to replace an existing filling.

Give us a call or book your reservation online right now. Now is the moment to begin smiling boldly and healthily.