A dental filling may combine metals, plastics, glass, or other materials used to repair or restore teeth. Dental fillings are usually used to fill an area of the tooth removed due to decay. Filler can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth worn down from misuse.
The cost of Dental Filling may vary based on the patient's specific surgical needs, dentists' fees, and way of treatment and clinic fees.
Since your dentist will numb the area and use a numbing gel before injecting local anesthesia, you won’t feel any pain.
Fillings are used to treat small holes or cavities in the teeth. Fixing a cavity includes removing the decayed tooth tissue and then filling the space with a filling material.
A dental filling is used to repair teeth with cavities because of oral acidity. Your teeth may need fixing in case of misuse or abuse, such as eating cracker nuts, bruxism or tooth grinding, and nail-biting. Your dentist may suggest putting on crowns, bridges, or veneers if fillings aren’t enough to save your tooth.
Gold
Porcelain
Silver amalgam (contains mercury mixed with silver, tin, zinc, and copper)
Tooth-colored, plastic and glass materials called composite resin fillings
The location and extent of the decay, the cost of filling material, insurance coverage, and the dentist’s recommendation help determine the filling that best addresses your needs.
When a patient presents with a cavity, the dentist first examines the extent of decay and selects the appropriate filling material. The types of fillings include amalgam, composite, glass ionomer, and gold, each with its own advantages.
The procedure begins with the dentist administering a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring the patient's comfort throughout the process. Once the anesthetic takes effect, the dentist uses a drill or another specialized tool to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This step is crucial as it cleans out the cavity and prevents further decay.
After the decay has been removed, the dentist cleans the cavity of bacteria and debris. If the decay is near the root, the dentist may first put in a liner made of glass ionomer, composite resin, or another material to protect the nerve. Generally, after the cavity is cleaned, it is ready to be filled.
The final step is to check the patient's bite and make any necessary adjustments to the filling. The dentist asks the patient to bite down on a special paper that marks the areas where the filling is too high. The dentist then smooths and shapes the filling to ensure a comfortable and natural bite.
After the filling is complete, the dentist provides aftercare instructions. These typically include avoiding chewing on the filled tooth until the numbness wears off and being mindful of sensitivity, which is common after a filling but usually subsides within a few days to a week.
Dental fillings are an essential part of restorative dentistry, used to repair cavities and restore the function and appearance of decayed teeth. There are several types of dental fillings, each with unique properties and applications:
Amalgam Fillings: Often referred to as ‘silver filling’. Dental amalgam is a durable and long-lasting material made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It's known for its strength and is typically used for filling cavities in the back teeth, where the chewing pressure is greatest. Despite concerns about mercury content, amalgam fillings are considered safe and are a cost-effective option for patients.
Composite Fillings: These tooth-colored fillings are made of a resin and glass mixture that can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for visible areas. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing support and resistance to fracture. They are less durable than amalgam and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Glass Ionomer Fillings: Also tooth-colored, glass ionomer fillings are made of powdered glass and acrylic resins. They have the unique ability to release fluoride over time, which can help prevent further tooth decay. Glass ionomer fillings are less wear-resistant than composite fillings and are often used for non-load-bearing surfaces or temporary fillings.
Gold Fillings: Gold inlays and onlays are considered some of the most durable filling materials and can last for decades. They are well-tolerated by gum tissues and provide an excellent fit. However, gold fillings are the most expensive option and require multiple visits to place.
Ceramic Fillings: Made of porcelain, ceramic fillings are aesthetically pleasing and resistant to staining. They are also quite durable but can be as expensive as gold fillings. Ceramic fillings are a good choice for patients looking for a natural appearance without compromising on strength.
Resin Ionomer Fillings: Similar to glass ionomers, resin ionomer fillings also release fluoride and are tooth-colored. They are typically used for small non-load-bearing fillings and as a liner under other filling materials.
Each type of dental filling has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice often depends on the location of the cavity, the extent of the decay, the patient's aesthetic preferences, and budget considerations. Dentists will recommend the most appropriate type of filling based on clinical necessity and patient-specific factors.
Before a dental filling procedure, the patient typically undergoes a thorough dental examination to identify cavities or damage that may require filling. The dentist may use X-rays to assess the extent of tooth decay and determine the appropriate treatment plan. Once a filling is deemed necessary, the patient is informed about the types of fillings available and the materials used, such as amalgam, composite, or glass ionomer, to make an informed decision based on factors like aesthetics, durability, and cost.
On the day of the procedure, the patient is advised to avoid eating a heavy meal immediately before the appointment, especially if they are prone to anxiety or have a sensitive gag reflex. It's also recommended to brush and floss teeth thoroughly to ensure a clean working area for the dentist. The patient should discuss any medical history, allergies, or medications with the dentist to avoid complications during the administration of local anesthesia.
During the procedure, the dentist begins by numbing the affected area with a local anesthetic to ensure the patient's comfort. This may involve applying a numbing gel followed by an injection into the gums. Once the area is numb, the dentist uses specialized tools, such as a drill, to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. The goal is to eliminate all decay while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
After removing the decay, the dentist cleans the cavity to remove bacteria and debris. If the decay is close to the nerve, a protective liner may be placed to prevent sensitivity. The chosen filling material is then carefully inserted into the cavity. For composite fillings, the material is applied in layers and hardened with a special light, while amalgam fillings are packed and shaped directly in the cavity.
The dentist meticulously shapes the filling to match the contours of the tooth and restore its natural function. Excess material is trimmed, and the filling is polished to a smooth finish. The patient's bite is checked to ensure proper alignment, and any high spots on the filling are adjusted to prevent discomfort during chewing.
Throughout the procedure, the dentist may use a rubber dam or suction device to keep the area dry and free of saliva. The patient is instructed to breathe normally and signal any discomfort. After the filling is complete, the dentist provides aftercare instructions, which typically include avoiding chewing on the filled tooth until the numbness wears off and being mindful of any lingering sensitivity.
After receiving a dental filling, it's important to follow specific aftercare instructions to aid in recovery and prevent complications. Initially, patients may experience numbness from the local anesthetic, which typically wears off within 2 to 4 hours. During this period, it's advisable to avoid hot beverages and be cautious when eating to prevent biting the cheek or tongue.
Once the numbness subsides, patients can eat normally, especially if they've received composite or glass ionomer fillings, which set immediately under a blue dental light. However, it's recommended to avoid hard or sticky foods that could dislodge the new filling. For fillings that require time to set, such as amalgam, patients should wait at least 24 hours before eating hard foods.
Good oral hygiene is essential after a dental filling. Patients should continue brushing and flossing regularly, being gentle around the new filling. If discomfort or sensitivity occurs, over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide relief. It's also important to check the bite and ensure that the filling doesn't create any unevenness, which could affect chewing. If the bite feels off, patients should return to their dentist for adjustments.
Patients should be mindful of the root cause of the cavity to prevent future decay. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods, and attending regular dental check-ups. During these visits, the dentist can monitor the filling and address any issues early on.
In the days following the procedure, patients should avoid habits that could put stress on the filling, such as biting nails, chewing pens, or using teeth to open bottles. Smoking should also be avoided as it can cause discoloration of the filling material and contribute to further oral health issues.
Recovery from a dental filling is generally quick, with most patients resuming normal activities immediately. However, some may experience temporary sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure, which should diminish within a few weeks. If pain or sensitivity persists beyond this period, it's important to consult the dentist.
Dental fillings are designed to be safe and durable, but patients may occasionally experience side effects or complications. One of the most common issues is tooth sensitivity.
Sensitivity: Your tooth may become to pressure, air, sweet foods, or temperature changes. This sensitivity usually diminishes within a few weeks, but if it persists, it may indicate an underlying problem such as an allergic reaction to the filling material or a filling that is too high and affects the patient's bite.
Development of a secondary cavity: If the filling does not fit snugly against the tooth, or if it pulls away over time, it can create a space where bacteria can enter and cause further decay. This is why it's crucial for the dentist to shape and bond the filling properly during the initial procedure.
Allergic reactions: These are rare but can occur, particularly with amalgam (silver) fillings, which contain a mixture of metals including mercury. Some patients may have a sensitivity or allergy to these metals, leading to symptoms such as skin rashes or itching. In such cases, alternative filling materials like composite resin can be used.
Expansion and contraction of the filling material: Materials like amalgam may expand and contract with temperature changes in the mouth, potentially leading to cracks in the filling or the tooth itself. This can compromise the integrity of the restoration and may require a new filling or a more extensive repair.
Nerve Damage: This can occur during the filling process, particularly if the decay was very deep or if the procedure was complex. This can result in prolonged pain or discomfort, requiring further dental treatment.
Damage to the filling: Fillings can chip, crack, or fall out, especially if they are subjected to undue pressure from habits like teeth grinding, nail-biting, or chewing on hard objects. Regular dental check-ups can help detect and address any damage early on.
Infection: Although rare, if bacteria are trapped inside the tooth during the filling process, it can lead to an infection that might necessitate root canal therapy or, in severe cases, extraction of the tooth.
Equipped hospitals, advanced specialized centers with experienced doctors and specialists are available in all medical treatment areas in Iran. Also, good hotels and entertainment centers have made Iran an appropriate choice for patients who are dealing with tooth cavity and are in need of Dental Fillings.
In Iran, the cost of dental fillings can vary depending on several factors, including the type of filling material used, the complexity of the procedure, and the specific dentist or clinic. On average, a tooth filling may cost around 250-450 USD per tooth in Iran based on the type of material.
It's worth noting that dental treatments in Iran are generally more affordable compared to many Western countries. This affordability is partly due to the lower cost of living and the favorable exchange rates for foreign currencies against the Iranian rial. As a result, many international visitors find the cost of dental care in Iran to be quite reasonable, even with the inclusion of travel expenses.
In summary, dental fillings in Iran offer a cost-effective solution for those looking to address dental decay and restore their teeth. With a range of materials and prices, patients can choose the option that best suits their needs and budget. However, as with any medical treatment, it's important to ensure that the chosen clinic and dentist have a good reputation and can provide high-quality care.
