Dental Fillings in Kitsilano, Vancouver

Despite being a highly preventable disease, tooth decay remains one of the most common dental concerns nationwide. Tooth decay starts as a white discolouration on the tooth surface. Eventually, this will continue wearing down the tooth and will stain it brown or black (see what a black tooth can mean). Advanced decay will weaken the tooth to cause cavities or holes in the tooth.

Depending on the extent of the decay, you may experience some tooth sensitivity or severe pain. As soon as you experience or see any signs of tooth decay, contact your dentist immediately for proper treatment such as with dental fillings.

Here's what you should know about dental fillings and how they can improve your overall oral health.

What is a dental filling?

A filling is a dental material packed in the tooth to treat tooth decay and restore a cavity. They can be made from a single or combination of metals, plastic, glass, or other materials that are strong and stable enough to repair the health of the tooth.

Aside from cavities, dental fillings are also effective in reshaping a worn-down or broken tooth, whether it is a front or back tooth. Modern fillings, especially those made with composite resin, are now made with superior strength to support normal biting and chewing, and an impressive, natural appearance for a lifelike finish. If the damage is extensive, your dentist may recommend a dental crown instead; learn how to tell if you need a crown.

Common Types of Dental Filling

Dental filling materials include:

• Gold
• Porcelain
• Amalgam – a silver-coloured filling that contains mercury, tin, zinc, copper
• Tooth-coloured composite resin – made with plastic and glass materials

At Arbutus Station Dental, we offer composite resin as our dental filling of choice. Because of the advancements in modern dentistry, we can handpick the type of composite resin material to use for your specific needs. So, whether you need to have a molar restored for optimal function and strength or a front tooth repaired to look as good as new, composite resin can get the job done.

What are the benefits of dental fillings?

• Repairs tooth decay and cavities
• Restores a broken or worn tooth
• Eliminates tooth sensitivity caused by cavities
• Prevents further tooth damage and possible tooth loss
• Strengthens fractured tooth
• Improves the bite and overall oral health

How are dental fillings done?

Dental fillings using composite resin are done in 3 basic steps:

Tooth prep

First, a dental bur or air abrasive is used to remove all decay. If the decay is too deep, your dentist may need to numb the area with a local anaesthetic, and in some cases discuss root canal therapy if the nerve is affected. A liner or base may also be used on the bottom of the cavity to ensure good longevity of the filling.

Tooth restoration

Then, composite material is layered incrementally where needed. Then, a special light will "cure" or harden the composite to enhance its strength. If the filling is to be placed on the front tooth, better shade matching should be done to make sure that it blends seamlessly with the natural tooth.

Polish and finish

Lastly, your dentist will trim off all excess material and polish the restoration to eliminate surface irregularities. This will prevent plaque accumulation and stain build-up which may damage the filling easily.

Dental Fillings in Kitsilano

Do you have a cavity that needs repair? Or a broken front tooth that needs to be restored? Contact our team at Arbutus Station Dental in Kitsilano. Our dentist will assess the tooth to determine if dental fillings are the best solution you need!

Frequently Asked Questions