Latest update February 25th, 2025 10:18 AM
Feb 26, 2017 News
By Dr. Neromini Fagu
Over the last few weeks we have spoken about fillings and some of the options available. This week I would like to discuss indications for a filling and the factors that will affect the cost of the procedure.
Do you have to get a filling done?
Well, the easiest answer is no – it is a personal choice. There is an old saying in dentistry, “You don’t have to brush all your teeth, only the ones you want to keep.” I suppose we can extrapolate this to fillings – you only need to fill those teeth that you want to keep. Your dentist can only advise you on your options but the ultimate decision is yours.
Some people are quite content with keeping their teeth for as long as possible and extracting them when the time comes, without previously paying any mind on how to care for them and how to keep them.
As I have discussed before, prevention is one of the keys to great oral health and while your dentist can assist you in maintaining your oral health, a lot of work is required on your part. You are responsible for getting regular check-ups, and following through with any dental work that is needed.
There are a number of indications for fillings pertaining to dental caries and existing restorations. However, you should be careful and not jump to conclusions if you experience some of these problems as they may be a consequence of other dental issues. Your dentist will do a thorough exam before making a final diagnosis. Some of the indications that you may need a filling are:
Tooth discolouration: Darkened areas on a tooth may be a result of tooth decay. Depending on the depth of the decay, the tooth may be restorable or you may have to consider other treatment options.
Tooth sensitivity: Sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures, pressure, or sweet things.
Toothache: Sharp or throbbing pain, or pain present on biting or chewing.
Visible hole:A hole, even in the absence of decay, should be filled as the hole may eventually lead to decay if it is not cleaned properly.
Half- moon appearances: This type of decay is found on front teeth. Unfortunately, the decay normally starts in between the teeth and extends to the back surfaces. By the time the decay reaches the front surfaces, treatment may be more complicated. This is why regular check-ups are important because you dentist will examine the back surfaces of your teeth for signs of problems.
Lost or broken filling:Compromised fillings should be replaced.
What factors determine the cost of your filling? Each dentist will have his or her own fee structure and this may depend on:
Size of the cavity: Larger cavities will take longer to prepare and fill and require more material.
Number of surfaces to be filled: Some cavities may extend to several surfaces of a single tooth. This is especially so for back teeth (molars) which have five surfaces.
Filling material: Amalgam (silver) fillings are cheaper than composite (white) fillings.
Pins and posts:Large fillings may need to be secured in place with pins or posts.
Qualified dentist or non-qualified person (quack): A quack will sometimes charge less, but the resultant overall cost might be higher than going to a qualified dentist, not to mention the risks involved in being treated by someone who is not qualified. It is up to you to do your research. As with most things, if it is too good to be true, then it probably is, and also the easy way is not always the best way. Safeguard yourself and your health – go to a qualified dentist.
Dental insurance: If you are fortunate to have private insurance or work for a company that provides dental insurance then your out-of- pocket expense will be less. Find out the details of your coverage from your insurance provider.
How will my dentist know that I need a filling?
Your dentist will ask you questions and do a check-up. Any suspicious areas may be lightly probed to determine if it is something to be acted upon or simply monitored until your next recall appointment. Your dentist may confirm a diagnosis for a filling with a dental x-ray.
If your dentist recommends a filling for a tooth you should not wait too long to act as the decaying process will continue and by the time you are ready to do the procedure it may become more costly or too late to save the tooth.
For more information contact OMNI DENTAL at 295 Quamina Street, Georgetown Tel: 227-0025, Parika Tel: 260-3133 or send emails to nerominifagu@hotmail.com.
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