Dental Fillings Near You in Laguna Beach, CA
Affordable tooth fillings and restorations in Laguna Beach from Dr. Adam Vaghari.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings refer to the process of filling up a hole in a tooth caused by decay from sugary acids, known as a cavity, with materials such as gold, glass, acrylic and ceramics to restore dental health and function. As the recommended restoration treatment for small cavities, it’s a good idea to visit your local dental practice for a dental filling if you experience sensitivity or have dark spots on your teeth.
At Laguna Beach Dentist, Dr. Vaghari follows a standard procedure for filling treatments that starts with numbing affected areas and ends with polishing your teeth to ensure a visually pleasing appearance. Additionally, because dental treatments can be nerve-racking, we strive to create a positive and relaxed environment so you can enjoy the benefits of dental fillings without the stress.
Causes of Tooth Decay and the Need for Dental Fillings
Tooth decay stems from plaque bacteria consuming carbohydrates and producing acid that demineralizes enamel. It is typically a result of frequently snacking on food and drinks high in sugar, creating repeated acid formation that causes mineral loss and cavities. Fillings, however, halt progression by removing decay and replacing lost tooth structure.
Signs You Need Dental Filling
There are many reasons you might need to get a dental filling. Here are some of the top symptoms that indicate you may need to seek a dental filling from your dentist:
- Tooth sensitivity and pain
- Flossing string tears
- Damage to a previous filling
- A chipped tooth
- Food stuck between teeth
- Dark spots (white spots after mineral loss is an early sign of decay)
Dental Fillings Offered by Laguna Beach Dentist
At Laguna Beach, Dr. Adam Vaghari and team are happy to provide several types of dental fillings.
Tooth-Colored Composites
Material: Acrylic resin reinforced with powdered glass quartz
Advantages:
- Aesthetics: Tooth-colored composites have a natural appearance.
- Bonding: Tooth-colored composites are bonded to teeth in such a way that they provide extra support.
- Versatility: Composite fillings can be used to repair chipped, broken, and worn teeth, as well as cavities.
- Protective: Typically, less tooth structure needs to be removed than with metal fillings.
- Low Cost: Composite fillings are usually the least expensive restorative option.
Challenges:
- Low Durability: Tooth-colored composite fillings last a minimum of five years, whereas ceramic fillings last anywhere from 10 to 15 or more.
- Chipping: As a result of their low durability, tooth-colored composite fillings are more prone to chipping and superficial damage.
Ceramic Fillings
Material: Ceramic
Advantages:
- Durability: Ceramic fillings generally last over 15 years.
- Stain Resistant: Ceramic fillings are more resistant to staining than other types of fillings, making them visually pleasing for a longer period of time.
Challenges:
- High Cost: Ceramic fillings cost more than composite fillings, often just as much as gold fillings.
- Longer Procedure: It takes an average 1-2 weeks extra to fabricate ceramic fillings than composite fillings.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Material: Acrylic and glass
Advantages:
- Fit for Children: Glass ionomer fillings are often used for gumline fillings and for children.
- Protective: Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride, which helps to continuously protect teeth from further decay.
Challenges:
- Low Durability: Glass ionomer fillers tend to be weaker than composites.
- Fracture Prone: Glass ionomer fillers are prone to wear and tear like fractures and chips.
Laguna Beach Dentist Procedure of Dental Fillings
Dr. Vaghari follows a standardized process when placing fillings:
- Apply Local Anesthetic: Anesthetize the decaying area to keep you comfortable.
- Remove Decay: Remove all decayed material from the cavity.
- Clear Residue: Ensure no residue remains that could cause future decay.
- Add Base Layer: Place a base layer filling if needed to prevent sensitivity.
- Fill Cavity: Fill the prepared cavity, sculpting your ideal bite.
- Finishing: Polish for smooth contours and natural aesthetics.
- Evaluate Bite: Check that your bite feels normal post-procedure.
How Laguna Beach Dentist Tackles Challenges Encountered While and After Dental Fillings
At Laguna Beach Dentist, we understand that some challenges can arise during and after dental fillings, and we take precautions accordingly.
Anxiety
Dental anxiety is a common concern for many patients. At Laguna Beach Dentistry, we offer nitrous oxide (NO2), also known as “laughing gas,” to alleviate anxiety. This safe and effective sedative agent is inhaled through a mask, helping you relax before and during the procedure.
Tooth Sensitivity and Pain
We use local anesthesia to keep patients pain-free during filling placement. For post-op sensitivity, we recommend desensitizing toothpaste and temporarily avoiding very hot or cold foods. Call us if sensitivity persists so we can identify the cause.
Filling Allergies
Some patients may have allergies to specific filling materials like silver amalgam, which contains mercury. In such cases, we conduct a thorough allergy test prior to the procedure. Based on the results, we recommend alternative filling materials like composite resin or porcelain that are hypoallergenic.
Deteriorating Fillings
Over time, dental fillings can deteriorate, leading to potential issues like further tooth decay or even tooth loss. We offer regular check-ups to monitor the state of your fillings. If we find that a filling is deteriorating, we act promptly to repair or replace it, ensuring that you avoid further dental complications.. This safe and effective sedative agent is inhaled through a mask, helping you relax before and during the procedure.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
There are numerous benefits to dental fillings. Here are just a few:
- Stops Cavity Growth: Fillings prevent decay from spreading by removing bacteria-harboring enamel loss and sealing the tooth. Regular dental visits allow early detection and intervention, maintaining positive oral health.
- Strengthens Fractured Teeth: Fillings reinforce weakened tooth structure prone to cracking or chipping from trauma. Bonded materials strengthen the entire tooth.
- Improving Tooth Color: Tooth-colored resin materials restore a natural aesthetic versus unsightly metal amalgam fillings. A bright white smile boosts confidence while encouraging patients to protect their oral health.
Why Choose Adam Vaghari Dentistry for Dental Fillings in Laguna Beach?
There are many reasons to choose Adam Vaghari Dentistry in Laguna Beach, including:
- Expertise and Experience: With advanced restorative training and decades of filling placements, Dr. Vaghari expertly detects issues and selects optimal materials.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We utilize modern dental technology, including digital x-rays and digital scanners to minimize the size of restorations and decrease discomfort.
- Amenities: Our office provides a comfortable and relaxing environment with a warm waiting room to ease your anxieties.
Cost and Payment Options For Dental Fillings
Understanding the financial aspect of dental fillings is essential for making an informed decision. At Adam Vaghari Dentistry, we aim to provide affordable dental care without compromising on quality.
Factors Affecting Cost
Cost of dental fillings may vary depending on the material you require and scale of decay. Aftercare treatment may incur an additional fee.
Payment Methods Accepted
We accepted all major payment processors including Mastercard and Visa.
Note on Insurance
Please check if dental care is covered by your insurance provider.
Your Smile is Our Priority
We offer the latest in dental technology
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Proudly serving Laguna Beach and the following Orange County cities
Dana Point CA • San Clemente CA • Laguna Niguel CA • Laguna Hills CA • Mission Viejo CA • Aliso Viejo CA • Irvine CA • Newport Beach CA • Ladera Ranch CA • Costa Mesa CA • Lake Forest CA • Tustin CA • Brea CA • Yorba Linda CA • Rancho Santa Margarita CA • San Juan Capistrano CA
FAQs
How long do cavity fillings take?
Appointment times vary depending on the cavity’s size and location. Simple fillings may take 30 minutes, while more involved multi-surface fillings can take 60-90 minutes. We’ll provide a more accurate time estimate at your consultation.
Can I brush my teeth after a filling?
Gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush using a fluoride toothpaste is fine in the first24 hours, but be aware that the tooth and gingiva may be sensitive/sore from the procedure itself. This sensitivity and soreness usually resolves within a few days following treatment.
How much does a dental filling cost?
Our filling costs vary depending on the size, location, and material used. Back teeth are simplest, while front teeth are more complex, leading to higher costs. Call us to get an exact quote, tailored to your specific filling needs.
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