The most important information about laser dental fillings and what distinguishes them!

Laser Tooth Fillings, Most people suffer from the problem of tooth decay or erosion, whether adults or children, and this problem causes embarrassment and lack of self-confidence. Recently, many solutions have been reached to treat tooth decay and fracture problems. Through this article, we will learn everything about laser fillings, including types, prices, and their effect on pregnant women.

Laser Tooth Fillings

Laser Tooth Fillings are one of the latest methods that modern dentistry has reached in treating tooth decay and cavities, as well as cracks. The dentist removes the decay from the tooth and places a filling material to fill the empty area that previously contained the decay.

Laser fillings or light-cured fillings are a mixture of plastic and ceramic, also known as composite fillings. They are widely used for front or visible teeth due to their resemblance to the color of natural teeth. This type of filling began to spread in the late 20th century, specifically in the 1960s.

“Get a laser filling now and enjoy a bright and comfortable smile at our The Dental Center.”

What are Laser (Composite) Tooth Fillings?

Laser tooth fillings (or Composite Fillings) are among the most widely used materials in dental clinics and centers. They are used to rebuild eroded or decayed teeth, especially the front teeth, and also with back teeth to adapt to each patient’s condition.

Laser fillings are also used more often to treat and repair teeth that are prone to breaking or cracking because they blend in with the teeth, and they are also used when the molars are highly susceptible to decay because they do not put pressure on them.

Front Fillings: Also known as cosmetic fillings, they are used to restore teeth and are characterized by their ease of modification in the shape, color, and size of the tooth portion without the need for the dentist to carve the tooth. The dentist can also control the degree of opacity that suits the tooth color.

Back Fillings: This type of filling is used for back teeth, where they are designed to withstand the pressure resulting from chewing food so that they last longer and do not easily break.

Best Types of Tooth Fillings

There are various types of fillings used to treat tooth decay and cavities, with the type of filling varying depending on the composition of the material it is made of, as it consists of several elements, including:

• Silver Filling: Also known as the platinum filling, it is one of the most famous and widely used types of fillings for over 1000 years and is chosen in most cases for its durability and strength in withstanding chewing pressure. Its estimated lifespan exceeds 10 years, and it is the least expensive filling.
• Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings: Also known as inlay fillings, they are manufactured in the color of teeth and are characterized by reducing the appearance of stains and tooth discoloration over time. They are entirely manufactured and designed in dental laboratories or using computers, which makes them relatively expensive.
• Gold Filling: One of the longest-lasting types of fillings, with an estimated lifespan of over 15 years. They are used in the manufacture of dental crowns and bridges. They are characterized by their resistance to rust and decay and were used by ancient civilizations as a symbol of luxury, making them expensive due to their association with raw gold prices. However, in modern times, patients do not prefer them due to the color mismatch with natural teeth.
• White Tooth Filling: This is one of the best fillings, and many patients prefer it because its color matches the natural white color of teeth. This type of filling has evolved significantly, and many varieties have emerged, such as composite fillings, white glass fillings, and reinforced white fillings.

In this article, you can find more information about the types of fillings and the materials used in them in general.

Advantages of Laser Tooth Fillings

Laser fillings have many advantages that make patients prefer them over others, including:

• Creating a strong bond with the teeth through the resin material in the filling.
• They are durable and can withstand pressure.
• Suitable for small fillings and minor tooth repairs.
• Easy blending with natural teeth, making them virtually invisible.
• No need to remove or carve the tooth for placement, preserving the maximum amount of natural tooth structure.
• Laser fillings can be used to modify the color or shape of teeth (cosmetic fillings).

“Get rid of the pain and discomfort of traditional fillings and discover laser fillings at our The Dental Center.”

Disadvantages of Laser Fillings

As with everything, laser fillings have some disadvantages, including:

• Tooth Nerve Sensitivity: When the decay is close to the nerve, it becomes more sensitive as it is affected by the chemical components of the filling material, resulting in gum swelling and constant pain. In some cases, it may be difficult to control the inflammation.
• Brittleness: They are often not suitable for treating molar decay due to their incompatibility with the pressures experienced by back teeth, making them susceptible to breaking and potentially falling out.
• Frequent Visits to the Dentist: The laser tooth filling technique requires multiple sessions for the dentist to properly clean and disinfect the tooth before placing the filling and applying temporary filling materials before the permanent filling, which requires frequent visits.
• Not Preferred for Large Cavities: This type of filling is not preferred by dentists in cases with large cavities due to tooth decay and erosion, as the filling may fall out due to the inability to bond with the tooth tissue.
• Gum Swelling: The gums may swell due to inadequate disinfection by the dentist before placing the filling material, although this rarely occurs due to advancements in disinfection methods.
• Filling Breakdown and Loss: The filling may break down and fall out due to repeated friction with the teeth and inability to withstand pressure.

Laser Tooth Fillings During Pregnancy

Pregnant women may be concerned about the effect of laser dental treatment on the fetus, and caution should be exercised if it is not necessary during pregnancy. Dentists also recommend cleaning the gums from tartar, as this is an important step, especially during pregnancy, when increased hormone levels can cause gum swelling, bleeding, and inflammation.

It is also advisable to repair cracks and fractures in teeth using composite fillings and crowns to prevent infection in the pregnant woman. Additionally, any cosmetic dental treatments should be postponed until after childbirth. Pregnant women should also avoid sitting in the dental chair for extended periods.

It is crucial to inform the dentist about the pregnancy to avoid using any anesthesia containing adrenaline, as this substance can increase the woman’s perception of uterine contractions and may lead to miscarriage. The dentist should be provided with the complete medical information of the pregnant woman, including any previous miscarriages.

How Long Do Laser Fillings Last?

If the patient takes care of the laser filling by avoiding certain foods, brushing it regularly, and if it was placed by a skilled dentist, the filling can last from 7 to 8 years.

However, laser fillings do not have a specific lifespan. It is possible that the material used in the filling is of the highest quality, but the patient may cause it to break a day after placement due to consuming hard foods like nuts. The longevity also depends on the care and attention given to cleaning it thoroughly with a toothbrush and using mouthwash, as well as the dentist’s skill in placing it.

Do Laser Fillings Require Anesthesia?

Most cases of laser tooth fillings do not require local anesthesia when filling cavities and gaps in the teeth, and patients can eat lunch immediately after the laser filling procedure and be able to chew, feel, and speak normally.

However, there are some cases where anesthesia is needed when using a laser for fillings, such as when filling the root canal and cleaning the tooth from decay, as this step can be slightly painful. Therefore, the dentist may prefer to use anesthesia for the patient’s comfort.

Pain After Laser Fillings?

Patients may experience pain after laser fillings, but in only a few cases, as light-cured fillings can cause sensitivity for some individuals. To determine if sensitivity is present, the patient should wait approximately 14 days. If the pain persists, the tooth should be opened, and a protective material (calcium hydroxide) should be applied to the nerve, followed by refilling. If the pain continues, the patient may need a root canal treatment with another material called glass ionomer.

Tips After Laser Fillings

Laser fillings are a type that requires special care because, unlike other metal fillings, they cannot withstand pressure. Here are some tips for caring for laser fillings:

• Avoid consuming hard foods to prevent the filling from breaking or cracking.
• Consume foods at moderate temperatures and avoid very hot or cold foods.
• Brush teeth regularly using a suitable toothbrush and toothpaste to prevent the filling from discoloring and maintain overall oral hygiene.
• Use a toothpaste containing a desensitizing agent, as light-cured fillings may cause tooth sensitivity.

Laser Filling Price 2023

As of 2023, laser fillings are available in various types, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The dentist determines the appropriate type for each patient based on the condition of the tooth and the number of teeth requiring fillings. Prices vary from one clinic or center to another. At our medical dental care center, laser filling prices start from 750 and can reach 1200 Egyptian pounds.

Which is Better: Laser Fillings or Platinum Fillings?

It is not possible to prefer one over the other, as each filling type has its advantages. The dentist determines the most suitable or better type based on the patient’s financial situation or the condition of the tooth itself. Here are some advantages of these fillings:

• Advantages of Laser Fillings: They are characterized by an aesthetically pleasing external appearance, ease of placement, and strong and stable fillings. Additionally, they are an effective solution for minor tooth decay and fractures, and they are relatively inexpensive.
• Advantages of Platinum Fillings: Platinum fillings are rarely susceptible to breaking due to their strength and durability, and they have a long estimated lifespan. They also do not require multiple sessions and do not expose the tooth to re-decay. Additionally, they are among the most affordable fillings.