Conservative, cosmetic dental fillings for the long, healthy, and attractive smile!
At Smile Today Dental in Glenview, Illinois, we enjoy working closely with our diverse patients to preserve their natural teeth and prevent the need for restorative treatment. If restorations are necessary, Drs Evelyn Kidonakis, Jinyoung Yoo, and Amir Danesh recommend the most conservative treatment options without sacrificing the restored tooth’s durability and long-lasting strength and health. Dental fillings are among those conventional therapeutic options. Modern dental fillings are also fabricated with non-metals, such as composite resin, to conservatively rebuild a portion of a tooth damaged by a cavity.
What makes composite fillings conservative?
Generally, conservative dental restorations preserve a maximum amount of natural and healthy tooth material. They do so by requiring minimal alteration of the natural tooth structure. Since so little of the tooth is altered, these restorations promote:
- Natural function
- Natural feel in the mouth
- Lifelike appearance
- Lasting support and durability
- Long-term health
- A comfortable treatment experience
Composite resin is also an attractive option for patients with sensitivities to metals or those concerned about the risks of allergies associated with dental amalgams made from a mix of silver, tin, copper, and mercury.
A well-tolerated, quick process
As with other types of dental restorations, both the natural tooth to be treated and the new tooth structure to be introduced are “prepared.” Preparation for the natural structure involves removing any irreparably damaged tissue. Medication is also applied to protect nerve endings. You won’t feel anything as the tooth is prepared due to our precision anaesthetic. Your utmost comfort is our priority.
Filling preparation involves assuring that the restoration material is color-matched to blend in precisely with the surrounding teeth. Once the filling is expertly introduced to the prepared tooth, it is shaped and refined as needed. Since the filling is securely bonded to a maximal amount of tooth structure, it is not going anywhere! With proper oral hygiene at home and routine visits to our practice for exams and professional cleanings, you can enjoy your treated tooth for many years to come with no problems. Alternative treatments are equally conservative and involve the placement of dental inlays or dental onlays (partial crowns). These restorations are less extensive alternatives to full-coverage dental crowns. Schedule your examination with our team at Smile Today Dental by calling 847-440-3331.
Fillings FAQs
How much does a filling cost in Illinois?
The cost of a dental filling in Illinois varies based on several factors, including the size of the filling, the filling material used, and the location of the affected area. On average, a composite resin filling can cost between $200 and $500. Prices may also differ depending on whether the patient has dental insurance and the specifics of their coverage plan. It’s best to consult with our team for precise estimates.
What type of tooth filling is best?
The best type of tooth filling depends on several factors, including the location of the cavity, the patient’s budget, and personal preferences. Composite resin fillings are the most popular option due to their natural appearance and versatility. When properly cared for, a composite resin filling can last, on average, 8-10 years.
Do dentists charge per filling?
Yes, we charge per filling. The cost is typically based on the size and location of the cavity, the complexity of the procedure, and the number of surfaces restored. A tooth has five surfaces in total that may require restoration. Each filling is considered a separate treatment, and the price will vary accordingly.
Which tooth filling is expensive?
At Smile Today Dental, we currently only offer composite fillings for our patients. However, if you compare costs with other dentists you have spoken to who offer alternatives, you may wonder how a composite filling’s cost compares. On average, gold or porcelain fillings are more expensive than composite fillings, costing between $200 and $500 per filling. Prices may also differ depending on whether the patient has dental insurance and the specifics of their coverage plan. It’s best to consult with our team for precise estimates.
How long do fillings last?
The lifespan of a composite that is well cared for can usually be expected to last 5-10 years. A composite filling is mostly affected by the environment in the mouth. Acid from plaque can break down the filling and cause microleakage, resulting in a new cavity. People who grind or clench their teeth can break fillings and teeth. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and avoiding habits like grinding teeth or chewing hard foods can help extend the life of a filling.
Is it painful to get a tooth filling?
Getting a tooth filling is generally not painful, as dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth being treated. Patients may feel some pressure or slight discomfort during the procedure, but the anesthesia prevents pain. After the numbness wears off, there might be some sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If pain persists, it’s important to contact your dentist.
Are fillings cheaper than root canals?
Yes, fillings are generally much cheaper than root canals. A filling can cost between $200 and $550, based on the complexity of the cavity. In contrast, a root canal procedure can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,000 or more, depending on the tooth being treated and whether a crown is needed afterward. Fillings are a simpler and less invasive treatment compared to root canals, which involve removing the infected pulp from the tooth’s interior.
Fillings before and after real patient images
Dr. Evelyn Kidonakis has been treating patients for over 30 years. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago College and its School of Dentistry and the Levin, Crabtree, and Practice Growth Institute Programs. She is educated and has hands-on training in areas such as direct cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers and Lumineers, Invisalign orthodontics, occlusion, and facially-generated treatment planning. Dr. Kidonakis is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
Dr. Jinyoung “Anny” Yoo has studied at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, and New York University Langone Dental Medicine in San Diego, CA. She has received hands-on training in Botulinum toxin and training in Invisalign orthodontics. Dr. Yoo holds membership in the ADA, Chicago Dental Society, and Illinois State Dental Society and a Fellowship in the AGD.
