Dental Fillings in Markham, ON

We emphasize the importance of brushing and flossing because they are great habits, especially when done together, for your oral health. But sometimes, even people with the best of intentions may develop cavities. Whether you are diligent or a little negligent with your dental hygiene, it can happen to the best of us. In some cases, a tendency to cavities may be hereditary. At 7 Days Dental, we want to help you maintain healthy and beautiful teeth. When necessary, our dentist might recommend getting dental fillings in Markham, ON.

Tooth decay that is not rinsed, brushed, or flossed away can start to eat away at the enamel and cause tiny holes to form. That is where fillings come in! Our Markham dentist will usually use composite resin to remove the decay, mould the material to your tooth, fill it in, and seal the hole. Leaving cavities untreated can expose the nerve, weaken the tooth, or even lead to an infection as bacteria or plaque seep in.

What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings are a form of treatment that uses dental materials to fill up holes within the tooth’s structure. This is usually the case for damaged or decaying teeth.

How are dental fillings done in Markham?

The dental fillings treatment process starts with a consultation and a checkup by the dentist. They review your dental history, ask questions about your oral hygiene practices, and examine the condition of your teeth and gums.

Next, they administer anesthesia to minimize pain during the procedure, and then clean away the decayed matter from the teeth. The filling material is prepped and applied to the cleaned hole, and a special light is used to harden the material, sealing the hole.

What types of dental fillings can I get in Markham?

When it comes to the materials available, we are happy that patients have more choices of dental fillings in Markham. Some may have mouths full of amalgam fillings made of different metals that may sometimes include zinc. Some high-profile celebrities have shown off gold fillings, which are durable but expensive and stand out.

Our dentist typically recommends composite resin for modern fillings, economical like amalgam fillings in Markham, but blends much more seamlessly with your natural tooth colour. They may be prone to chipping and staining, but can still last up to 10 years. Porcelain also matches enamel and is superior in longevity and stain resistance, but it is expensive.

What happens during and after dental fillings?

Our team at 7 Days Dental works hard to help keep your teeth as strong and healthy as possible, even with fillings. In some cases, the decay that caused your cavity will have damaged your tooth significantly by the time our dentist applies the filling. We may recommend adding a crown or cap over your tooth if that happens to help protect it, or possibly performing root canal therapy.

Over time, we will likely need to repair your fillings in Markham, because the materials do not last forever. They may simply chip away while you are eating or if you are prone to grinding your teeth. Biting into chewy and hard foods or suffering blunt force trauma can otherwise crack or loosen a filling. Although rare, we may also see a filling detach, giving bacteria a chance to grow and cause an infection. If you notice any problems, contact our dental practice in Markham right away so we can look after them.

Prevent the spread of decay with dental fillings in Markham; book now

Fillings are not foolproof, but they help extend the life of your teeth. Practicing good oral care and lifestyle habits will significantly reduce the need to get them in the first place. Regular checkups and cleanings at the dentist (ideally twice per year) will help us catch problems before they become serious. Ask us more about preventing cavities when you book your next visit with us!

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings In Markham

What is a dental filling and why is it needed?

A dental filling is used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. It fills the cavity, prevents bacteria from spreading, and helps protect the tooth from further weakening or infection.

What types of dental fillings are available?

Common filling materials include composite resin (tooth-coloured), amalgam (metal-based), porcelain, and sometimes gold. Composite resin is most popular today because it blends naturally with your teeth.

How long do dental fillings last?

The lifespan depends on the material. Composite resin usually lasts up to 10 years, amalgam around 10 to 15 years, porcelain about 15 years or more, and gold can last 20 years or longer. Good oral hygiene and avoiding hard foods can extend their durability.

Do dental fillings hurt?

The filling procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, so most patients experience little to no pain. Some mild sensitivity may occur afterward but usually subsides within a few days.

Can a filling fall out or get damaged?

Yes, fillings can chip, crack, or loosen over time due to chewing, grinding teeth, or biting into hard foods. If this happens, it’s important to see your dentist promptly to prevent infection.

Are dental fillings covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of basic fillings, especially when they are medically necessary. Cosmetic materials like porcelain or gold may not be fully covered.

How can I prevent cavities and avoid fillings?

Regular brushing, flossing, limiting sugary foods, and attending dental checkups twice a year are the best ways to prevent cavities. Professional cleanings can catch early decay before fillings are needed.