Fillings and Sealants
Tooth decay and cavities are frequent oral health concerns. Treating them with a tooth-colored filling helps restore the tooth and keeps the issue from becoming more serious.
Tooth Fillings and Sealants in Dublin, Ohio
Tooth Fillings
A filling is a routine dental procedure used to repair cavities or minor tooth damage caused by decay. It restores the structure and function of the tooth while preventing further deterioration. At our office, we offer both composite (tooth-colored) and amalgam (metal) fillings. While both are safe and effective, we often recommend composite fillings for visible teeth since they blend naturally with your smile.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—especially molars—to prevent cavities. Although most commonly used in children, adults can benefit too. Sealants are quick to apply, cost-effective and significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay by sealing off the tiny grooves and pits in molars where bacteria can hide. When placed early, sealants can reduce the need for future fillings and help preserve your teeth through critical developmental years.
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How do cavity fillings work?
Cavity fillings are needed to repair damage caused by tooth decay. If left untreated, decay spreads and worsens. During the procedure, the dentist removes the decayed portion—usually with a drill—and fills the hole to restore the tooth’s shape and function. The filling strengthens the tooth and helps prevent further decay.
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What is a dental sealant?
Sealants help reduce the need for fillings by protecting deep grooves on molars—areas where bacteria can hide and cause decay. These grooves are often too narrow for a toothbrush to reach but wide enough for plaque to settle, making them prone to cavities.
Sealing molars at a young age can significantly lower the risk of decay. The quick, painless procedure involves cleaning and prepping the grooves, applying a resin material, and hardening it with a blue light. In just minutes, the tooth gets a strong layer of protection.
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What types of filling materials are available?
Fillings can be made from materials like gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (a mix of mercury, silver, tin, zinc and copper), tooth-colored composite resin or glass ionomer (which contains glass particles). The choice depends on your dentist’s recommendation, the decay’s location and severity, and your insurance coverage.
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Who qualifies for dental sealants?
Sealants protect healthy teeth before cavities form, typically applied to permanent molars around ages 6 and 12. Adults can also benefit if old sealants wear off or new decay risks arise. This quick, affordable treatment helps prevent costlier dental procedures later.
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How much does a tooth filling cost?
We’re committed to delivering quality dental care at a reasonable cost for our patients in Dublin, Ohio. The cost for composite (white) fillings typically ranges from $210 to $405. Final out-of-pocket expenses depend on your current insurance coverage.
Office Fees
Questions about fillings or sealants?
If you have questions about fillings or sealants, or would like to schedule a consultation, feel free to contact us or use the link below to book an appointment. You can also explore the many other dental services we provide.
