Say Goodbye to Cavities with Watelase iPlus Technology
Cavities are more than just a nuisance—they can jeopardize your oral health. At Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Denton, TX, we utilize advanced technology like the Waterlase iPlus dental laser to provide precise, comfortable dental fillings. This innovative approach ensures your cavity treatment is quick, effective, and virtually painless.
Whether you’re dealing with tooth decay, a damaged tooth, or simply want to enhance your smile, dental fillings offer a reliable solution. Schedule your appointment today by calling (940) 566-4888 and let us help restore your oral health.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative treatments designed to repair teeth affected by decay or damage. By filling cavities and sealing off areas vulnerable to further decay, fillings preserve the tooth structure and restore its function.
Using state-of-the-art techniques, including the Watelase iPlus laser, our dentists can provide treatments that are:
- Minimally invasive and precise.
- Comfortable with reduced sensitivity.
- Long-lasting and tailored to your needs.
Why Choose Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry?
At our Denton dental practice, we’re dedicated to combining advanced dental technology with personalized care. Whether you’re dealing with tooth decay, sensitivity, or a damaged tooth, our dental professionals are here to help. Here’s what our patients have to say about our dental practice:
- “The Garden Oaks team was super supportive for my 3 year olds first dentist appointment. They made her feel very comfortable and went at her pace. My daughter was laughing and smiling at the end. Great experience!” – Matthew B.
- “Hands down the best dentist office I’ve ever been to. The facility is beautiful, high-tech, clean and welcoming. The entire staff is passionate about dentistry and their patients. Highly recommend!” – Alexandra C.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are various types of dental fillings, some not as used as others. Types of dental filling materials may include:
- Composite Fillings: These tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them an ideal choice for visible areas. Made of composite resin, they bond directly to the tooth structure for added durability.
- Amalgam Fillings: Known for their strength, silver amalgam fillings are highly durable and ideal for molars. While their appearance may not match natural teeth, they’re a cost-effective and long-lasting option.
- Ceramic Fillings: Crafted from porcelain, ceramic fillings provide excellent aesthetics and stain resistance. These are perfect for patients seeking a natural look combined with durability.
- Gold Fillings: Renowned for their longevity, gold fillings are custom-made and highly durable. Though more expensive, they’re a premium choice for those prioritizing durability over aesthetics.
- Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fluoride-releasing fillings are especially beneficial for preventing further decay. They’re often used in children’s teeth or areas with minimal chewing pressure.
The Waterlase iPlus Advantage
Our dental practice uses the Waterlase iPlus laser for filling preparation, ensuring:
- Minimal discomfort.
- Enhanced precision for removing decayed portions.
- Faster healing times.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings not only address cavities but also provide a range of advantages:
- Decay Removal: Stops the progression of tooth decay.
- Preservation: Prevents the need for more invasive treatments.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your smile.
- Durability: With proper care, fillings can last for years.
If you have any questions on how dental fillings can benefit you, call our Denton dental office at (940) 566-4888 to schedule an appointment.
Do You Need Dental Fillings?
Our Denton general dentists will assess the following to decide if you’re a candidate for dental fillings:
- Cavity Presence: Fillings are mainly for treating cavities. We check for cavities using X-rays and visual exams to see how much decay is present.
- Tooth Structure: The level of damage to your tooth is important. Fillings are best for minor to moderate decay. If the decay is severe, you might need a dental crown or root canal instead.
- Overall Health: We consider your health and medical history. Some conditions or medications can influence the choice of filling material or your ability to have the procedure.
- Allergies or Sensitivities: Some people may be allergic or sensitive to certain filling materials. We take this into account when choosing the right material for you.
- Enough Tooth Structure: There needs to be enough healthy tooth structure left to support the filling. If too much of the tooth is damaged, other treatments might be better.
- Patient Preferences: We consider what you prefer, especially for cosmetic reasons. Many choose tooth-colored composite fillings, but there are also options like amalgam or gold.
- Budget and Insurance: Costs matter, so we discuss the price of fillings and what your dental insurance might cover.
- Alternative Treatments: If a filling isn’t right for you, we talk about other options like crowns, inlays, onlays, or in severe cases, tooth extraction.
The Dental Filling Process at Our Denton Dental Office
Here’s what to expect during your dental filling process:
- Preparation: The area is numbed with local anesthesia for a pain-free experience.
- Decay Removal: Using the Waterlase iPlus laser, we gently remove decayed portions, preserving healthy tooth structure.
- Filling Placement: The chosen filling material, whether composite resin or ceramic, is placed and shaped to fit naturally.
- Curing and Polishing: A special light hardens the filling, and final adjustments ensure a smooth, natural feel.
You’ll leave our dental office with a newly filled tooth. We’ll provide instructions on how to care for your dental fillings.
How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?
The cost of a dental filling can range from $50 to $250, depending on factors such as:
- The type of filling material.
- The complexity of the procedure.
- Your insurance coverage.
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, making this treatment affordable for many patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thanks to local anesthesia and the precision of the Waterlase iPlus laser, most patients experience little to no discomfort during the dental filling procedure. Any soreness after the procedure can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material and care. Composite fillings typically last five to 10 years, while gold or ceramic fillings can last decades with proper maintenance.
Restore Your Smile and Oral Health Today!
Don’t let cavities compromise your smile or oral health. Call our Denton dental office at (940) 566-4888 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Patrick Ruehle or Dr. Erike Eide at Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We proudly serve Denton and the surrounding communities, including Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX.