Fillings repair teeth after decay, while sealants prevent cavities by protecting the tooth’s surface from bacteria and food buildup.
Fillings and Sealants
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Cost
Your cost depends on the extent of treatment, materials used, and your insurance coverage, with preventative options like sealants typically being more affordable.
Office Fees -
Treatment Duration
Most fillings and sealants can be completed in a single visit, with sealants taking only minutes per tooth and fillings requiring slightly more time.
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Pain Level
You can expect little to no discomfort. Sealants are painless, and fillings are performed with local anesthesia and sedation if needed to keep you comfortable throughout treatment.
Sedation Dentistry
Fillings and Sealants in Brookline, MA
Fillings and sealants are simple, effective ways to protect and restore your teeth. Fillings are used to repair teeth damaged by decay, gently restoring their strength and function while preventing further issues. Sealants, on the other hand, are thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities often form. They act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles.
Both fillings and sealants are safe, quick, and minimally invasive. By addressing damage early and preventing future decay, fillings and sealants help patients of all ages maintain a healthy, confident smile.
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Process of Fillings
- We begin with a gentle exam, ensuring your comfort while identifying decay and explaining the steps so you feel at ease.
- After numbing the area, we carefully remove damaged tooth structure, preserving healthy enamel and minimizing discomfort throughout the procedure.
- We clean and prepare the space, then place a durable filling material that restores strength, function, and a natural-looking appearance.
- Finally, we shape and polish the filling, check your bite, and provide aftercare guidance to support healing and long-lasting results.
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Process of Sealants
- During your visit, we gently clean and dry the tooth, then place a special solution that helps the sealant bond securely.
- The liquid sealant is carefully painted on and hardened with a safe curing light, creating a smooth shield over grooves where bacteria hide.
- This quick, painless process takes minutes per tooth and lasts for years with care.
FAQ
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How do fillings and sealants differ?
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What is the best type of tooth filling to get?
Choosing the right dental filling depends on your needs, but tooth-colored composite fillings are often the best choice for most patients. They blend naturally, preserve tooth structure, and provide durable protection.
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When do tooth fillings need to be replaced?
If you notice sensitivity, pain, discoloration, or rough edges, your filling may need to be replaced. Dental exams help detect early wear or hidden decay.
Related Services
Dental Checkup
Regular dental checkups help you protect your smile with preventive care and early detection. You receive a thorough exam, professional cleaning, and personalized guidance to maintain long-term oral health in a comfortable setting.
Dental Checkup
Root Canal Treatment
You deserve relief from tooth pain without stress or uncertainty. Root canal treatment removes infection, preserves your natural tooth, and restores your comfort with a calm, supportive approach.
Root Canal Treatment