Dental Filling Washington, DC

Like most patients, you're probably concerned about developing dental cavities, which develop when bacteria erode the enamel. Once the cavity is discovered, it must be sanitized to remove the bacteria before it is sealed to prevent further damage. In the past, cavities were filled with a material called amalgam, which was made with different combinations of metals including silver, gold, and mercury. Now, dental professionals realize that metal fillings don't bond with the teeth well, plus there are dangers to your health from mercury-based fillings. MINT dentistry in Washington, DC is dedicated to giving our patients advanced treatments that improve their oral health while keeping their smiles stunning. This is why our premier dental facility provides tooth-colored fillings for the treatment of dental cavities. These advanced dental restorations are made with a material known as composite resin, which is used to fill cavities while blending with your natural teeth to match your gorgeous smile. Our team of experienced, board-certified MINT doctors in Washington, DC is committed to providing your entire family with superior care for dental cavities with tooth-colored fillings that won't detract from your beautiful smile.

Amalgam fillings are a metal material that have been used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay for over one hundred years in millions of patients. These amalgam fillings (made from a combination of metals like mercury, silver, tin, and copper) were the only option available to treat a dental cavity and restore the tooth. Unlike composite fillings, opening your mouth wide to yawn, laugh, or talk means these silver fillings are very noticeable. Although some people still have amalgam fillings, our team of experienced MINT dentistry professionals uses composite resin fillings to treat tooth decay and match the natural color of your teeth for an enhanced smile.

Fillings are often used to fill a cavity in the enamel once it's been sterilized by a MINT dentistry team member. Composite resin is a versatile material that can be used to treat other issues with the teeth, including cracks or strengthening worn-down enamel caused by teeth grinding (bruxism). Since the composite resin is shaded to match your natural teeth, tooth-colored fillings can be used on any tooth for a seamless appearance. If you have old amalgam fillings, ask a member of the Washington, DC MINT dentistry team about having them removed and replaced with tooth-colored fillings.

At MINT dentistry, getting a filling for a cavity is generally a simple procedure. At the start of your appointment, we'll help you relax in a massaging treatment chair, allowing you to decide on what you want to listen to during your treatment. The areas surrounding the cavity will then be numbed using local anesthesia to minimize your discomfort. Adding another sedation method can be discussed with your dentist to help with any dental fears or anxieties so you can stay relaxed and comfortable. Once you're at ease and prepared, the enamel affected by the cavity will be very gently removed with a state-of-the-art dental drill. After the decayed area is removed and the tooth is cleaned, the cavity will be sealed with composite resin and set with a special light. Our dental team will polish the filling so it blends with your other teeth and feels smooth.

When you leave, you should be able to eat whatever you want when you get home since the composite resin material used for the filling will be set, creating a tough surface. Some patients experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for 1 – 3 days, but that should wear off soon. You may take an over-the-counter pain relief medication if necessary, but patients feel little to no discomfort. We strongly recommend you return after getting a filling for an adjustment to ensure the bite is perfect. Bite complications are difficult to avoid because your mouth is numb but are easily fixed. Just contact MINT. To keep your new tooth-colored filling clean, you should follow a good routine at home including flossing and brushing your teeth at least twice a day. During your regular appointments for cleanings, we will assess your tooth-colored filling and decide if it needs to be replaced or repaired. Tooth-colored fillings typically last for a very long time and look natural. To keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, it's important to attend professional cleanings twice a year at our office in Washington, DC

Tooth-colored fillings are a common treatment for cavities and are usually covered up to 100 percent by dental insurance. The financial team at MINT dentistry will speak to your insurance provider to understand your coverage and calculate your remaining cost. For patients without insurance, the MINT dentistry support staff will talk to you about the payment methods we accept, as well as medical financing options. MINT dentistry believes that every patient in Washington, DC deserves a luminous and healthy smile and we're dedicated to making it easy for everyone to fit dental care into their budget. Speak with a member of our team to find out how we can make your dental experience more affordable with the MINT Discount Plan.

Dental cavities are a common issue, but at MINT dentistry, we can treat them simply and effectively to help restore your oral health while keeping your smile beautiful. Using advanced technology and special techniques, small areas of tooth decay can be treated with tooth-colored fillings. MINT dentistry's board-certified dentists will shade the filling to match your teeth so you have a seamless smile and better oral health. If you suspect you or a family member has a dental cavity, contact MINT dentistry in Washington, DC to schedule an oral health exam.