The teeth are probably one of the most used yet overlooked parts of the human body. 92% of adults aged 20 to 64 in the United States have had dental caries in their permanent teeth, while 26% have untreated decay. 

Tooth decay can cause many problems when left untreated, including pain, infection, and, worst case scenario, tooth loss. This type of damage to a tooth happens when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. 

Without proper cleaning and care, constant exposure to food and drink high in sugar and starches causes the tooth enamel to erode over time. Dental fillings are the solution to this problem. In most cases, the tooth or teeth are salvageable with the appropriate procedure from an experienced dentist.

In this article, we’ll talk about temporary tooth fillings and why they are essential.

Dental Fillings Defined

When the enamel erodes, white spots appear. These are early signs of decay and areas where teeth have lost important minerals. The enamel weakens or is destroyed, creating a cavity.

This is where dental fillings come in (quite literally). A dental filling is an orthodontic intervention to restore or replace damaged teeth.

Dentists use various materials as fillings, including gold, silver, composite resin, and ceramic. In most cases, the tooth’s location and the damage’s severity determine the type of filling. For example, gold fillings are typically used for back teeth, while the composite resin is more common for front teeth. 

Why Dental Fillings are Necessary

Filling in Cavities

The most typical reason for getting a dental filling is to fill in a cavity. As we’ve discussed, fillings are needed if tooth decay progresses to the point of creating holes or cavities in the teeth. 

For some, a cavity or cavities might not be urgent or too worrying a concern. However, seeing a dentist and getting cavities treated at the earliest opportunity is essential to prevent further complications that will disrupt your life. 

These include increased teeth sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures. It becomes difficult to enjoy your favorite cup of hot coffee or cold and sweet ice cream. This is your body’s way of telling you that you must address an issue.

The longer you delay treatment, the more pain you’ll experience. A swift and recurring pain will make it too hard to chew, swallow, or move your mouth. Finally, an untreated cavity could lead to an infection. When bacteria reach the tooth’s pulp, an abscess could form under the gums and spread to other parts of the mouth and the body. 

Preventing Further Damage

An infection that could lead to tooth loss is what you and your dentist should try to avoid at all costs. A dental filling stops a cavity from worsening and deteriorating to prevent the pain and discomfort caused by bacteria. If a dentist sees fit, they may suggest crowns or veneers to restore the teeth.

Enhancing Your Smile

Dental fillings also serve an aesthetic purpose. Since they are made of different materials, they can make your smile more attractive. Dental fillings can help transform your teeth from dull and discolored to bright and nearly perfect.

Dental Fillings: Cost and Longevity

What are the dental fillings made of, and how long do they last?

Silver or Metal

The cost of dental fillings depends on the material and how much of your teeth need to be covered. A silver amalgam (metal) filling on one or two surfaces costs around $50-$150, while three or more amount to $120-$300 and up. Silver fillings last for about 10 years.

Composite Resin

Composite resin fillings cost twice as much, about $200-$300. The price is reasonable since the material is more durable and bonds better. Additionally, it looks like natural teeth. However, the downside is they only last for 5-7 years, which is relatively shorter than the lifespan of metal fillings.

Gold

Gold fillings last for about 15 years. But such a level of durability comes with a hefty price. Gold does not come cheap and can cost you more than $1,000.

Porcelain Inlays

Like composite resin, porcelain inlays are natural-looking. However, they are more stain-resistant and reach prices of $1,000 and above.

Without proper cleaning and care, constant exposure to food and drink high in sugar and starches causes the tooth enamel to erode over time. Dental fillings are the solution to this problem.

Factors to Consider 

When you get a dental filling, your dentist has a few different materials to choose from, each with its benefits and drawbacks. The type of filling material you ultimately receive will depend on several factors, including the size and location of the cavity, your bite, and your personal preferences. 

The price of dental fillings can also vary depending on the dentist performing the procedure and their geographical location. Their experience and training are other factors that affect the price. Those with more experience and training may charge more for their services, but they may also be able to provide a higher quality of care.

However, there are cases where some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost. 

Temporary vs. Permanent Dental Fillings

There are two types of dental fillings: temporary and permanent. You might be wondering why there’s such a thing as temporary tooth fillings when you can just opt for more permanent ones. 

Some people believe that temporary fillings are not as effective as permanent ones, but this is not true. Temporary fillings are just as good at protecting your teeth from decay. However, there are some crucial differences between the two.  

Permanent Fillings

Permanent fillings are just that — permanent. For these, dentists use materials like gold, ceramic, or composite resin, and they can last for years with proper care. However, these materials can be expensive and may not match the color of your natural teeth. 

Temporary Fillings

Conversely, temporary fillings are more affordable and can be placed quickly. Compared to permanent fillings, dentists use softer materials, like zinc oxide eugenol and Cavit.

Some temporary fillings also have a calming effect on tooth nerves. However, because they are not as durable as permanent fillings, they typically only last up to eight weeks. However, some can last up to three months.

So which type of filling is right for you? That depends on your and your dentist’s circumstances. 

When is a Temporary Filling the Best Option?

Although temporary and permanent fillings are available to patients, dentists recommend temporary fillings in certain situations. In most cases, temporary fillings, just as the name implies, are used as an emergency treatment for cavities that need immediate intervention.

They are used to restore or protect damaged teeth until the time it takes for the dentist to replace them with something permanent. A dentist removes decay and fills it with a temporary filling during the same appointment to allow the tooth to stabilize until a more definitive and permanent solution is available. For example, you may need to wait for a dental crown.

The Procedure  

The temporary filling procedure is relatively straightforward:

1. The dentist anesthetizes the teeth, gums, and surrounding area with a numbing agent
2. The dentist cleans the tooth or teeth with a drill. If necessary, they perform a root canal or some other dental procedure.
3. The filling is placed into the cavity or defect and shaped to fit.
4. Once in place, the dentist uses UV light to harden the filling.
5. The dentist smoothens out any excess material to ensure that the patient’s bite is correct and comfortable.

The entire procedure takes about an hour or more, depending on the severity of the damage and surface area. It is relatively fast and painless treatment.

Post-Treatment Care Tips

Temporary fillings aren’t made to last as long as permanent ones, so you need to take care of them to ensure they reach their estimated life span. Below are some post-treatment tips to keep in mind:

• Brush and floss regularly, but do it carefully so as not to dislodge the filling/s
• Avoid sticky and hard foods that could pull the filling out
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid sugary drinks
• Make sure to attend your subsequent dental appointment

Side Effects of Temporary Fillings

Tooth pain and sensitivity are relatively common after the placement of a filling. The sensitivity goes away within a few weeks, and you can relieve pain with medication. Contact your dentist if the pain and sensitivity do not subside within 2-4 weeks.

If you’re worried about allergic reactions to fillings, don’t fret; these are rare. The dentist must get insight into your medical or family history to determine any possibilities of allergies. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a quick rundown of questions frequently asked by patients regarding temporary fillings:

What are temporary tooth fillings?

A temporary filling is a type of dental filling used to fill cavities and tooth defects pending a more permanent restoration, such as with a dental crown or dental implant. Dentists use them after tooth extractions, root canals, and other dental procedures.

How long do fillings last?

Most temporary fillings only last eight weeks, while permanent fillings can last for 10 years or longer (with proper care).

How much does a filling cost?

The cost of a filling depends on several factors, including the filling type, the cavity size, and the tooth’s location. Patients can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $1,000 per tooth.

Do fillings hurt?

The procedure and post-treatment should be painless as long your dentist does it correctly.

Consult a Dentist Today

If you’re having problems with your teeth, such as cavities or sudden trauma that require temporary fillings, consult a dentist. Rod W. Gore DDS is a professional and trusted Scottsdale cosmetic dentist offering superior dental restoration procedures. Contact us for a free consultation on temporary fillings today.