Treating Cavities with Direct Composite Fillings
In our office, most cavities are treated with direct composite restorations. Depending on how much decay is present, the complete restoration of your tooth usually requires one office visit. During the visit we remove the decay and fill your tooth with a resin-based composite, which is BPA free and matches your natural teeth. Composite fillings are bonded to your tooth structure and mimic the qualities of natural teeth.
Tooth-Coloured Inlays and Partial Crowns
When a cavity is very large, a significant part of the tooth has broken away, or we are replacing a very large silver filling, a porcelain inlay or onlay may be a better choice than a composite filling. Inlays give extra protection to the remaining structure of a heavily damaged tooth and look natural. This process requires two appointments.
First appointment: The old filling or decay is removed and the tooth is shaped. An impression is made and sent to the lab, and a temporary inlay is placed on the tooth. At the lab, a model of your teeth is made and porcelain is shaped to fit your tooth like a puzzle piece.
Second appointment: The temporary inlay is removed, a conditioning gel prepares the tooth, bonding cement is placed and a high-intensity light bonds the inlay to the tooth. The tooth is then polished.
Your tooth is restored to a natural look and feel, and it is stronger and protected.
Replacing Silver Fillings
Many people still have amalgam (silver) fillings from years past. Read more on our page about amalgam filling removal.
Signs You May Need a Filling
- A visible hole or dark spot on a tooth
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods
- Pain when biting down
- A rough or sharp edge on a tooth
- A filling that has cracked, chipped or fallen out
- Food that regularly catches in the same spot
Pain is not always present with a cavity, which is why regular checkups and cleanings matter. If a filling or crown falls out or you have a severe toothache, call us. Walk-ins are welcome through our emergency dentist service.
Before Your Visit
- Bring your insurance information, if you have it.
- Tell us about any allergies, medications or health conditions.
- Let us know if you feel nervous. We offer laughing gas and sedation options.
- Eat beforehand if you can, since your mouth will be numb for a few hours afterward.
After Your Treatment
- Your lips, tongue and cheek may stay numb for a few hours. Avoid chewing until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
- Your tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold for a short time.
- You can usually eat soon after a composite filling, but follow any advice your dentist gives. With an inlay, take care with the temporary until the final one is placed.
- Brush twice a day and floss daily.
- Call us if your bite feels uneven, the sensitivity gets worse, or you have swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding.
Costs, Insurance and Payment
We provide free estimates and bill all major and government insurance plans directly where coverage applies. Our fees follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. If you are not covered, instant financing with easy monthly payment plans is available.
Why Choose Heritage Valley Dental?
- Natural-looking, BPA-free composite fillings
- Most cavities treated in one visit
- Gentle care with laughing gas and sedation options available
- Open seven days a week, including weeknights until 8:00 pm
- Care for children and adults
