The Importance of Dental Fillings in Preventing Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues, resulting in cavities that can cause significant damage if left untreated. However, modern dental fillings provide an effective solution for cavities, restoring teeth and preventing further decay.

Dr. BestPrice can help you with finding an affordable solution for your dental fillings.

Dental fillings are materials used to fill in gaps or holes created in teeth by cavities and decay. When decay penetrates the outer enamel layer and reaches the inner dentin, it creates small gaps or pits that weaken the tooth. Dental fillings are placed into these spaces to rebuild the lost tooth structure and prevent additional destruction. Common filling materials include amalgam, composite resin, and glass ionomer cement.

Once a cavity is detected during a dental exam, it must be treated to stop further progression. Left untreated, cavities can expand deep into the tooth and even reach the pulp or root canal. This can result in severe tooth pain, infection, and may ultimately require a root canal or tooth extraction. However, by placing a filling into the decayed area, dentists are able to effectively treat the cavity. This restores the anatomical form and function of the tooth.

In addition to treating existing cavities, dental fillings play an important role in preventing additional tooth decay from developing. By filling in gaps where enamel and dentin were destroyed, they create a physical barrier that stops oral bacteria from reaching the inner layers of the tooth. This barrier seals out food particles and acids that can cause demineralization and future decay. Well-placed fillings can protect restored teeth from recurrent decay for many years with proper oral hygiene.

A primary goal of dental restorations like fillings is to restore both the function and natural appearance of teeth that have been damaged by decay. strategically placed fillings rebuild tooth structure, allowing teeth to chew and crush food normally again. They also restore the proper shape, size, and symmetry of teeth to improve a person's smile. This can boost self-esteem and confidence during smiling, laughing, and other social interactions.

Here are some common ADA dental procedure codes related to fillings:

D2140 - Amalgam - one surface, primary or permanent tooth
D2150 - Amalgam - two surfaces, primary or permanent tooth
D2160 - Amalgam - three surfaces, primary or permanent tooth
D2161 - Amalgam - four or more surfaces, primary or permanent tooth

D2330 - Resin-based composite - one surface, anterior tooth
D2331 - Resin-based composite - two surfaces, anterior tooth
D2332 - Resin-based composite - three surfaces, anterior tooth
D2335 - Resin-based composite - four or more surfaces, involvement of incisal angle

D2390 - Resin-based composite crown, anterior
D2391 - Resin-based composite - one surface, posterior tooth
D2392 - Resin-based composite - two surfaces, posterior tooth
D2393 - Resin-based composite - three surfaces, posterior tooth
D2394 - Resin-based composite - four or more surfaces, posterior tooth

D2940 - Protective restoration
D2951 - Pin retention - per tooth, in addition to restoration

If you suspect a cavity or need a dental filling, contact Dr. BestPrice for an affordable treatment solution. As a leader in budget-friendly dental care auctions, we offer quality restorations without the premium price tag. Through our dental auction site, you can find deeply discounted dental procedures like fillings from vetted local dentists. We also accept dental insurance and provide payment plans to help make necessary treatments affordable. Visit our site or call today to schedule an exam to check for cavities and get a filling estimate.

So in summary, dental fillings play a vital role in treating cavities, preventing further decay, and restoring optimal function and appearance. With affordable options available through dental auctions and dental discount plans, quality care is within reach. Don't ignore a potential cavity - contact Dr. BestPrice today for a low-cost consultation and treatment solution.