Understanding Tooth Filling Price: Covers different Types, Steps and Important Factors

Dental fillings help to restore a decaying tooth in its early stages. It is important to understand the costs of dental fillings to recover your tooth from tooth decay or if you need it after a root canal. The cost factor can help you make wise decisions for your oral health, whether you have a cavity caused by decay, need a root canal, or have a damaged tooth. This guide on tooth filling costs will help you gain insights into the filling process, types of filling materials and the factors affecting the filling cost.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF DENTAL FILLINGS?

1.Amalgam fillings:

Amalgam fillings are also known as “Silver fillings“. They are reasonable and very durable. They are used for your back teeth, which require heavy chewing. Amalgam fillings are strong and suitable for teeth that need to work hard because they are made from a combination of metals.

2.Composite fillings:

It is a fantastic option if you want a filling that matches the colour of your natural teeth. They are a little more expensive because they look natural and require a special procedure to fix your tooth. Composite fillings can be used for both the front and back teeth of your mouth.   

3.Porcelain Fillings:

Sometimes, instead of composite filling, porcelain fillings are used to restore large cavities. They are commonly known as inlays and onlays, and they are made in the lab and later cemented on the tooth in the dental clinic.  

They are made to fit your teeth and match your natural teeth properly. They are more expensive as they can last longer. As porcelain fillings blend nicely with your natural teeth, they are more commonly used for your front teeth. 

4.Cement Fillings:

Also known as “glass ionomer fillings,” these fillings are made of cement. They contain ingredients that are healthy for your teeth. They are used in areas of your mouth that don’t require a lot of chewing and are a reasonable option. They are a good option for children and others who might develop cavities.

WHAT ARE THE STEPS IN THE PLACEMENT OF A DENTAL FILLING?

1) Examination and Consultation:

Your dentist will check your teeth to see if a filling is necessary. They will address any queries and decide on the best filling material for your condition. Your dentist will take all your preferences to decide on the type of tooth filling material.  

2) Area Numbing:

Before the process, your dentist will apply a local anaesthetic to the region around the troubled tooth. It helps you give you a comfortable and painless filling procedure. 

3) Removing Decay:

Your dentist will next remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill, air abrasion, or laser. After removing the decay, they will clean your cavity and prepare for filling the cavity.   

4)  Etching and Bonding (for tooth-coloured fillings):

If you get a composite resin or porcelain tooth-coloured filling, the dentist will use an acidic gel to etch the tooth’s surface. This roughs the tooth surface and helps the filling bond well with the tooth after applying a bonding agent.

5)  Filling the Cavity:

The dentist will fill the cavity with the selected filling material. The material is blended and put into the cavity for amalgam fillings before it hardens. Tooth coloured filling is applied in layers, and each layer is hardened using a specific light.

6)  Shaping and Polishing:

The dentist will trim and shape the filling material to ensure it melds perfectly with your natural tooth structure when it has solidified. After that, the filling is polished to make it smooth and stain resistant.   

7)  Bite Inspection and Corrections:

Your dentist will examine your bite to ensure it is correctly positioned. They could modify the filling to achieve a cosy and natural bite if necessary.

8)  Aftercare Instructions:

You will receive detailed instructions from your dentist on caring for your freshly filled tooth. It could include food or drink restrictions and practising proper oral hygiene. You might need to visit the dentist for routine dental checkups.

WHAT ARE THE FACTORS THAT AFFECT DENTAL FILLING COST?

Tooth filling costs can depend on various factors including the area, material, filling size, etc. Let’s understand about the price factors in detail: 

1.Location:

Your area or location can impact the price of dental care. Dental services are generally more expensive in urban areas compared to rural locations. It also depends upon the expertise of your dentist. Expert Dentists usually charge higher due to their experience and skill in the field. It is better to approach an expert dentist for a successful outcome.  

2.Materials:

The tooth filling cost may vary depending on the filler material selected. Silver amalgam fillings are often less expensive than porcelain or tooth-coloured composite resin fillings.  

3.Filling Size and Complexity:

The price will vary depending on the size and extent of the cavity. If the cavity size is larger, it might require more filling material and time. This would increase the cost of the tooth filling. 

4.The Tooth’s Position:

The tooth filling price depends on the tooth’s location in your mouth. It can be challenging to fill the teeth at the mouth’s rear, like the molars. When it comes to fixing front teeth, they require a natural-looking material that can be more expensive than others.    

5.Dental Insurance Coverage:

The entire cost may be higher if a filling is needed for a root canal or periodontal treatment. These fillings need more procedure and that increases the cost.   

The price range of dental fillings would vary everywhere. It is advisable to go for a dental filling treatment that offers superior quality and is durable. A good quality dental filling will stay intact and save the additional cost if the filling chips come off or off. You can receive cost effective dental fillings at Signature Smiles, with prices starting from Rs. 2500/- onwards.

LOOK AFTER YOUR TEETH AND WALLET

It is important to maintain your oral health as it helps you enhance your overall health and save costs. A tooth filling is a dental process that helps keep your teeth healthy and maintain good oral health. Before you decide on getting a dental filling, find out the best filling for you and how much it can cost. You can contact a professional dental clinic like Signature.

Remember that healthy teeth allow you to smile confidently and make you feel fantastic. When it comes to your teeth, the key is finding the right and quality dental care that fits your budget. Signature Smiles Dental Clinic can be your smile partner in your journey to achieve healthy teeth and smile by helping you overcome all your teeth problems.