Dental Fillings in Indianapolis, IN

One Family Dental in Indianapolis and Greenwood offers dental fillings to relieve pain and make your smile beautiful. Using advanced techniques and materials that match natural tooth color, our board-certified dentist, Dr. Prasad Sanku, precisely fills cavities caused by disease or injury. With his dedication to patient comfort and reliance on proven methods that halt decay, Dr. Sanku helps people of all ages restore their confidence and smiles. At One Family Dental, we cherish the relationships we build through understanding each patient’s unique needs and delivering reliable dental care.

Dental Fillings
in Indianapolis,
IN

table of content

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorations that repair teeth affected by cavities or decay. Dr. Sanku removes the damaged part of the tooth and fills it with a material designed to mimic the appearance and function of the natural tooth. Fillings are made from dental amalgam, composite resin, and porcelain. The procedure takes about 30-90 minutes, depending on the extent of decay. After treatment, the restored tooth functions normally for chewing and eating.

Types of Dental Fillings

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, copper, tin, and mercury. They have been used for over 150 years to seal cavities caused by tooth decay. Amalgam fillings are strong, can withstand chewing pressure, and last 10-15 years or longer.

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic resin and fine glass or ceramic particles. They blend in with the natural shade of teeth and look more organic than amalgams. Dr. Sanku uses these tooth-colored dental fillings to seal cavities on the front and back teeth. They usually remain for 7-10 years before needing replacement. Composite fillings are durable but may not last as long as silver amalgam fillings in larger cavities.

Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings

Ceramic fillings are made of porcelain and ceramic particles. They match the color of natural teeth and resist staining over time. Ceramic fillings are durable, though not quite as robust for chewing as composite resin fillings. They are more expensive but last 10 years or longer before replacement is needed.

Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) Fillings

GIC fillings release fluoride, which helps prevent new decay from forming. They bond well to the tooth structure and provide a tight seal. GIC fillings are tooth-colored, but their translucency gives them a slightly dull appearance. They are often used for small fillings, below-the-gumline cavities, and root sensitivity. Their average lifespan is about 5-10 years.

The Dental Filling Procedure

Dr. Sanku prepares the tooth using a drill to remove any decay and shape the structure to accept the filling material. Local anesthetic is usually applied to numb the area before drilling. Dr. Sanku eliminates all infected and softened enamel and dentin, leaving only healthy tooth structure. This helps make sure the filling bonds properly.

Once the tooth is prepared, Dr. Sanku selects a sealing material, such as composite resin, silver amalgam, porcelain, or GIC. This substance is placed and shaped to fit the space. It may be built in layers and hardened with a curing light or dental cement. The filling is contoured to have a natural shape and bite.

Dr. Sanku trims any excess filling material and polishes the restoration using special dental tools. This helps smooth the structure for patient comfort and provides an even surface to prevent plaque buildup. The polished filling matches the tooth and restores its form and function.

Finally, Dr. Sanku asks the patient to bite down so he can inspect the newly placed filling. He checks bite alignment and makes necessary adjustments to the tooth shape. This additional procedure ensures the tooth makes even contact with the opposing teeth. Dr. Sanku always aims to achieve proper form and comfort.

Aftercare

After getting a dental filling, patients should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least an hour to allow the anesthesia to wear off. They may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks for a few days, which is normal. Patients must follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice daily and flossing once daily. It is crucial to avoid chewing on hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that might damage the filling or teeth.

When Do You Need Dental Fillings?

Anyone who has tooth decay or damage should get dental fillings. Cavities can result from a poor diet, inadequate oral hygiene, or genetics. Common signs of tooth decay include:

If left untreated, tooth decay can result in infections, pain, and loss. Therefore, it is highly important to seek timely care. Dr Sanku will treat cavities, preserve more of the tooth structure, and prevent further tooth decay.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are the most common treatment in our office. Dr. Sanku helps thousands of patients restore their oral health and look perfect. Here are the main advantages of dental fillings:

Stop Tooth Decay

The primary reason for getting a dental filling is to halt the progression of tooth decay. Once a cavity is sealed, bacteria can no longer enter and cause further damage.

Prevent Tooth Loss

By addressing the problem early with fillings, we mitigate the risk of severe decay, which may lead to worn teeth requiring extraction.

Restore Normal Tooth Function

Dental fillings restore the normal function of teeth, allowing patients to eat and speak comfortably.

Improve Aesthetics

Modern composite fillings match the natural tooth color, improving the aesthetics and smile.

Long-Lasting Solution

Dental fillings can last over 10 years with proper care.

Cost-Effective

Compared to other restorative procedures, fillings are cost-effective and usually covered by dental insurance.

Prevent More Serious Problems

Fillings can help avoid more serious dental problems, such as root canals or implants, which require costly treatments.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular check-ups may eliminate the need for fillings in the first place. There are many ways to preserve dental health, such as regular brushing, flossing, and fluoride toothpaste.

Cost of Dental Fillings in Indianapolis, IN

The cost of dental fillings in Indianapolis ranges from $100 to $500, depending on the type of material used and the number of teeth being treated. Simple fillings made of dental amalgam tend to fall on the lower end of the price range, while more complex options using tooth-colored composite materials or GIC are more expensive. Additional factors like the doctor’s fees and the dental office location also impact the total cost.

During consultations with Dr. Sanku, patients can receive accurate price quotes. He will evaluate the level of tooth decay and offer different fillings to achieve the best results. Patients may also use flexible financing plans from Sunbit to break the costs into small payments over time.

One Family Dental Is a Top Destination for Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are essential for maintaining oral health and hygiene. If you have tooth decay or damage, getting a filling as soon as possible is crucial to avoid further damage and pain. It is easy to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sanku today!

One Family Dental provides exceptional care and is an ideal place for dental fillings. Our board-certified dentist, Dr. Sanku, combines advanced expertise with compassionate care. He utilizes the latest technology, like 3D imaging, for precise diagnostics. Committed to anxiety-free dentistry for patients of all ages, Dr. Sanku is renowned for his gentle and caring approach. With his qualifications, expertise, and patient-centered philosophy, One Family Dental offers premier fillings and restorative treatments. We are always happy to meet new patients!

Our Happy Patients

Had a wonderful experience. Went in thinking I was going to have to get my tooth extracted . Doc came up with a plan got me fixed and back eating in no time. With minimal numbing the whole 9 . Great place to go atmosphere is great and nurses are very pleasant.

- Anitra Tyler

I am a new patient and very glad I chose this dentist office. I felt welcomed. Staff was professional and kind and I also felt comfortable when I got in “THE CHAIR”. I am one of those who has a little anxiety when it comes to “Dentist appt. today”. A big thank you and it was a pleasure to meet my new dentist family.

- Doushan Babb

One of if not the best dentist in Indy! I’ve have went there for years. An honest profession with a great and personable staff. I have never been disappointed with the service or diagnosis on any situation that they have come across with my wife and I or my daughter. Thanks for being there for our family!

- Jamie Murphy

Dr. Sanku and his staff are so kind and gentle. I certainly felt comfortably relaxed and I highly recommend One Family Dental

- Barbara Cripe

This office is efficient and I feel comfortable with my care. I had my wisdom teeth removed and it was not nearly as bad as stories I had heard. I feel welcomed by the staff and there are seldom any wait time. I have been going to this office for 19 years.

- Midge Kelley

schedule your family’s first appointment and start enjoying a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.