Cosmetic dental fillings and how much do cosmetic fillings cost?

Dental Cosmetic Fillings, Cosmetic dental fillings are among the most commonly used fillings in dental cosmetic procedures due to their remarkable results in improving the aesthetic appearance of teeth and solving all their problems. Therefore, in this article, we will learn about cosmetic fillings, their types, prices, and advantages.

Dental Cosmetic Fillings

Dental Cosmetic Fillings

Teeth are usually the most vulnerable areas to diseases and injuries, especially the front teeth, such as cavities, fractures, deformities, and gaps. Therefore, dentists seek not only effective solutions but also simple, quick results, and one of the most prominent solutions is cosmetic fillings. These fillings consist of certain chemicals that are exactly similar in color to natural teeth and treat the disease while improving the appearance of the teeth.

Cosmetic fillings are chemical substances specially made to suit the nature and function of teeth, which require withstanding some pressures. One of the main roles of cosmetic fillings is to eliminate infections and fill the gaps in the teeth, which is the most dangerous problem facing the dentist. When placed in the gap completely, it seals any chance of food accumulation, prevents bacterial growth, thus preventing cavities, and keeping the tooth structure intact. In the following paragraphs, we will learn about cosmetic fillings in detail.

Types of Cosmetic Fillings

There are types of cosmetic fillings used by most dentists to solve all the problems of teeth that the patient may face. The difference between the fillings lies in their chemical composition and some different characteristics or properties of these chemicals. However, their main role and how they are performed are the same. So let’s talk about these types in detail in the following points:

• Laser Fillings

These are cosmetic composite fillings consisting of resin, an organic compound such as glass, and a bonding material called dimethylglyoxime to bond them to the bones of the teeth to give them strength and durability, lasting for long periods with the patient. This type of cosmetic fillings is the most commonly used because of its color similarity to natural teeth, and its reflection of light and shine on the teeth, causing them to sparkle and attract, thus fulfilling its cosmetic role.

• Porcelain Fillings

These are fillings made of porcelain or ceramic, and they are among the most expensive medical fillings used to solve problems of cavities and tooth fractures due to their similarity in color to natural teeth and precision in installation. They last for many years because they are characterized by durability and strength.

• Glass Fillings

These are fillings made of glass that give the teeth radiance and shine due to their similarity in color to the teeth. Hence, they are classified as cosmetic fillings. However, they are weak fillings that cannot withstand pressure, so they are suitable for front teeth and do not suit the nature of molars that chew and grind food, making them suitable for children. However, it has been proven that they gain strength over time due to the production of fluoride, which enhances their durability and prevents tooth decay.

How Much Does Cosmetic Filling Cost?

The cost of cosmetic filling varies depending on the dentist performing the filling procedure, the assisting medical team, the cleanliness and sterilization of the clinic or center, the material of the filling substance, in addition to the nature of the patient’s condition, its severity, and the location of the tooth or molar to be filled. The number of damaged teeth that need restoration and finally the main factor is the price of the currency used in the country against the dollar. Therefore, we find that the cost of cosmetic fillings at The Dental Center in Nasr City, Cairo ranges from 750 to 1200 Egyptian pounds per tooth, while the cost of cosmetic filling for one tooth can reach 1500 Egyptian pounds.

Best Clinics for Dental Cosmetic Fillings

The Dental Center is one of the best places for dental cosmetic fillings due to the presence of a large elite of the best and most skilled dentists specialized in tooth filling procedures, as well as the distinguished nursing team assisting them, following the strongest methods of infection control, extreme cleanliness, and high-level sterilization. The management is keen on organization and providing all means of comfort for the patients, in addition to simple and economical prices compared to prices in other clinics and centers. You can book and inquire through the official website of the center by clicking here.

How Long Does Cosmetic Filling Last?

The types of cosmetic fillings mentioned above differ in the duration they maintain their hardness, durability, and continuity with the patient. Laser fillings are characterized by strength due to the presence of dimethylglyoxime, which bonds the filling well with the bones of the teeth, making them last for a period exceeding 10 years. In the case of porcelain fillings, they consist of a strong filling material that makes them last for more than 7 years. As for the relatively weak glass fillings compared to the previous fillings due to the softness of the glass material they are made of, and even though they gain some strength over time due to the production of fluoride, which supports them and supports the teeth, they last only three or five years.

What Is the Difference Between Regular and Cosmetic Fillings?

There are many types of fillings used to solve all dental problems, but there are traditional fillings and cosmetic fillings that follow the latest techniques and advanced practical methods. Therefore, let’s mention some simple differences between regular and traditional fillings in the following points:

Regular Fillings

• Performed in one session.
• Characterized by high hardness and stability, and in some types, it exceeds 20 years with the patient.
• Withstands high pressures resulting from eating and chewing or collision during speaking, such as silver and gold fillings.
• Therapeutic filling with no cosmetic role.
• Its colors differ from the natural colors of teeth.
• Used in molars and back teeth due to its high ability to withstand pressure and its mismatch with the natural colors of the front teeth.
• Varied prices, with gold fillings being the most expensive medical fillings ever and higher than cosmetic fillings of all types. Conversely, silver filling is the least expensive as it is one of the oldest fillings used for nearly 150years.
• Requires removal of a large portion of the tooth cavity or affected tooth, making it structurally weak. You can learn about all types of regular fillings in detail through this article.

Cosmetic Fillings

• Performed in one session, and in advanced cases, it may occur in two or three sessions.
• Strong and durable.
• Some types contain a substance that helps to bond the tooth tissues with the filling well, so it lasts for many years with the patient.
• Its main role is to beautify teeth, not just therapeutic.
• Suits front teeth.
• Simple cost.
• Keeps the tooth or molar structure strong and durable because it does not require removal of a large portion of its cavity.

Cons of Cosmetic Fillings

Despite the countless advantages of cosmetic fillings mentioned earlier, there are a few drawbacks that should be taken into consideration before deciding to undergo cosmetic filling. Let’s discuss the negative points associated with cosmetic filling procedures in the following points:

• Not Suitable for Large Cavities: Cosmetic filling procedures require the removal of a small portion of the tooth or molar cavity to keep its structure strong enough to withstand pressure and support the filling, enabling them to perform tooth functions together for many years. However, in the case of large cavities, the structure of the tooth or molar weakens, making it unable to strongly bond with the cosmetic filling material. Consequently, the filling may fall out or become damaged in a short period.
• Sensitivity to Smoking and Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting dental hygiene by not brushing teeth daily with toothpaste, using dental floss to remove food debris, and increasing smoking can lead to damage to cosmetic fillings and reduce their ability to remain in the mouth for a long period.

Advantages of Cosmetic Fillings

There are many advantages to cosmetic fillings that make them highly desirable, as mentioned earlier. These advantages can be summarized in the following points:

1. Similarity to the color of natural teeth.
2. Strength and durability, lasting for many years without any side effects.
3. No serious complications arise during or after placement.
4. Addition of shine and sparkle to teeth, enhancing their attractive appearance.
5. Maintaining the strength of teeth due to their strong bond with bones and tissues.
6. Preservation of teeth and solving all their problems.
7. Prevention of further decay.
8. Obtaining a bright smile.

Reasons for Using Cosmetic Fillings

Cosmetic fillings have various uses and address many dental problems. Therefore, we will mention the reasons for their use in the following brief points:

1. Treatment of tooth fractures or cracks.
2. Filling gaps between teeth in the upper and lower jaws.
3. Repairing damaged teeth.
4. Treating tooth decay.
5. Addressing internal cavity erosion of tooth structure.

How Is Cosmetic Filling Done?

The process of cosmetic tooth filling involves several steps, and the dentist ensures the patient’s comfort and follows the appropriate procedures based on their condition. These steps are completed in one session or a maximum of two sessions, depending on the condition of the affected teeth and their number. Therefore, we will detail the steps as follows:

1. Conducting necessary medical examinations to determine the patient’s condition and identify the necessary procedures suitable for their condition.
2. Administering local anesthesia to the affected area or injecting anesthesia into the gums.
3. Drilling the tooth or molar cavity and removing all decayed material, ensuring the removal of all bacteria and microbes.
4. Isolating the affected area with a dental dam.
5. Thoroughly sterilizing the cavity with water or medical solutions.
6. Placing the filling material inside the cavity, ensuring it fits perfectly to prevent any gaps that could allow bacteria to enter and cause decay again.
7. Polishing and smoothing the surface of the tooth or molar to remove any roughness or excess filling material.
8. Placing a crown or veneer on top of the tooth or molar filled to protect the filling material and prevent it from falling out or cracking under pressure, while also reinforcing the tooth or molar.

Who Should Get Cosmetic Fillings?

There are some cases that require undergoing cosmetic filling and are not suitable for other traditional fillings. We will briefly mention these cases as follows:

• Individuals with minor or moderate tooth decay in children and adults require filling teeth with fillings that match the color of natural teeth.
• Advanced or severe cases of decay require cosmetic filling and also the installation of a crown to support the filling and the affected tooth or molar, increasing their ability to withstand pressure and perform their functional roles without being damaged.
• Individuals with highly sensitive teeth, as cosmetic fillings are suitable for sensitive teeth and prevent the occurrence of any sensitivity symptoms after undergoing the filling procedure.
• People with large gaps between teeth in the jaws, severe discoloration in tooth roots, or severe tooth fractures, as cosmetic fillings are suitable for them due to their ability to support the affected tooth or whiten and polish it.

Who Are Candidates for Using Cosmetic Fillings?

As mentioned in the previous title, there are cases that should receive cosmetic fillings. We can alternatively mention who are candidates for using cosmetic fillings in the following points:

• Those suffering from damage, fractures, or decay of front teeth.
• Those with sensitivity to traditional fillings such as silver and gold.
• Individuals seeking an exact match for the color of their teeth purely for cosmetic purposes, aided by the range of shades and colors of cosmetic fillings.
• People who do not want to remove a large portion of the tooth or molar cavity during the filling procedure.
• Individuals whose decay has not reached the nerve of the affected tooth or molar, as cosmetic fillings consist of chemical materials that may cause nerve sensitivity.

Some Tips for Maintaining Cosmetic Fillings

The success of the cosmetic filling procedure depends not only on the steps performed by the doctor at the clinic but also on the patient’s behavior at home after undergoing the filling. Therefore, the doctor always advises the patient on some guidelines that expedite the healing process, reduce the recovery period, prevent the occurrence of any complications or unwanted side effects later on. Failing to adhere to these instructions may not only lead to the failure of the filling procedure but may also expose the patient to more serious diseases and complications that require time and effort for the doctor to control. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to implementing the following instructions:

• Brushing teeth daily after meals and before going to bed.
• Using the appropriate toothpaste for the sensitivity of teeth during this period, with the option to consult the dentist to determine it.
• Cleaning teeth daily with dental floss and miswak to remove any food debris trapped between the teeth.
• Avoiding foods rich in sugars and starches that stimulate bacterial growth and reformation of decay.
• Avoiding hot or cold foods and beverages to prevent tooth sensitivity or their effect on the nerve.
• Reducing acidic fruits.
• Regular follow-up with the dentist, especially in the session following the filling procedure, to ensure its success and check on the filling.

Expected Results After Using Cosmetic Fillings

The cosmetic filling procedure is performed under the influence of anesthesia, so the patient does not feel any pain during the procedure. Its effect dissipates after about 3 hours, but the feeling of numbness, itching, and inability to move the jaw, speak, or eat continues for the next 24 hours after the procedure. Therefore, the doctor advises the patient to only drink water and eat soft food during this period, then from the following day, the patient gradually begins to introduce different types of food.

After a week or 10 days from the filling procedure, the patient can consume all types of food and drinks. During the recovery period, it is advisable to avoid hard foods, sweetened carbonated beverages, acids, and anything cold or hot to prevent tooth sensitivity symptoms or damage to the nerve. The appearance of some inflammations accompanied by pain is normal in some cases after the filling procedure and can be controlled with medications prescribed by the doctor containing some painkillers and anti-inflammatory agents that expedite healing and tissue healing with the cosmetic filling. After two weeks, all symptoms disappear completely, and the patient can resume normal activities, but regular follow-up with the doctor is necessary afterwards.

Steps for Installing Cosmetic Fillings

We have previously detailed in the article the steps or procedures for installing cosmetic fillings, and we will notice that some patients undergo the entire filling process in one session while others have the procedure done in several consecutive sessions depending on the severity of the cases. It is natural for the filling process to be completed in only one session, but in some advanced cases, the doctor decides to perform the filling process in multiple sessions, up to 3 sessions, where the decay is cleaned, the cavity is sterilized, and the temporary filling is placed in one session, then in the next session, the temporary filling is replaced with the permanent filling, and finally, in the third session, the safety, strength, and durability of the filling in its proper place are confirmed, then the crown is placed on top of the tooth or molar to protect it and support the affected tooth or molar that has been filled. You can learn more about the duration of temporary fillings after root canal treatment through this article.