Protect your teeth with a filling at Dr. K Dental
Cavities happen. It's a fact of life as delightful as burnt toast or Monday mornings. But that doesn't mean you have to live with the discomfort or let it dim your dazzling smile. At Dr. K Dental, led by the expertise of Dr. Marina Kuznetsov and Dr. Dmitriy Kuznetsov, we offer top-notch dental fillings to restore your teeth's health and function, all while keeping your smile looking sharp enough to cut through that negativity.
What are fillings, you ask? They're essentially tiny, tooth-colored restorations used to repair cavities, which are small holes caused by tooth decay. Decay occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and feeds on sugars in your food. If left untreated, cavities can grow larger and cause pain, sensitivity, and even infection.
Think of fillings as tiny suits of armor for your teeth. They not only prevent further decay but also restore the strength and structure of your teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak comfortably. This means you can keep enjoying your favorite foods – guilt and cavity-free (well, maybe ditch the candy corn addiction).
Whether you're a busy bee buzzing around Manhattan or a Brooklynite taming the concrete jungle, Dr. K Dental is conveniently located to serve your dental needs. We understand that the dentist's chair can sometimes feel like a roller coaster, but fear not! Our friendly team is here to make your experience smooth sailing, offering various relaxation options to keep those pre-appointment jitters at bay.
How A Filling Session Works
1
Chat & Chill
First things first, let's chat!
We'll get to know you and your dental concerns. Dr. Marina or Dr. Dmitriy will examine your teeth, answer any questions you have, and explain the entire process in detail, ensuring you feel informed and, most importantly, comfortable. We offer a relaxing environment and prioritize clear communication throughout your visit.
Together, we'll discuss the best type of filling for you, whether it's natural-looking tooth-colored composite, durable porcelain for larger restorations, or even gold fillings if you want to be fancy.
We'll answer any questions you have about the procedure and cost, ensuring transparency and understanding.
2
Imaging & Prep
To ensure a precise and efficient procedure, we utilize advanced technology for a detailed examination:
Digital X-rays: These quick and painless images provide a clear view of your teeth and jaw structure, allowing Dr. Marina or Dr. Dmitriy to assess the extent of the cavity and plan the filling placement accurately.
3D Intraoral Scanner: This handheld device takes digital impressions of your teeth and surrounding tissues, creating a highly accurate 3D model. This model allows for even more precise planning and fabrication of custom fillings, if necessary.
Once the imaging is complete, Dr. Marina or Dr. Dmitriy will gently numb the area around the tooth using local anesthesia for a pain-free experience. They will also use a rubber dam to isolate the tooth being treated, keeping the area clean and dry throughout the procedure.
3
Fill & Finish
We offer various filling materials to suit your needs and preferences. We'll discuss the options with you in detail, helping you choose the best fit:
Tooth-colored composite resin: These fillings blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color for a discreet and aesthetic restoration.
Durable porcelain: These fillings are strong and long-lasting, making them ideal for larger restorations or areas requiring high strength, such as molars used for chewing.
Gold fillings: While less common today, gold fillings are exceptionally durable and can last for over 15 years. Also a good option if you want to go all out - Soprano’s style.
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Dental fillings restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth. They can be used to address:
Cavities: Decay caused by bacteria buildup from plaque and sugar.
Root canals: To seal the tooth after treatment.
Cosmetic concerns: To improve the shape or color of a tooth.
Chips and cracks: Caused by accidents, chewing hard foods, or grinding teeth.
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At our practices in Manhattan and Brooklyn, we offer a variety of filling materials to best suit your needs:
Tooth-colored composite resin: These fillings blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color for a discreet and aesthetic restoration. They are a popular choice for small to medium cavities in visible areas and are generally less expensive than other options. However, they may not be as durable as other materials, and may require replacement sooner.
Durable porcelain: These fillings are strong and long-lasting, making them ideal for larger restorations or areas requiring high strength, such as molars used for chewing. They are highly resistant to chipping and wear, and can last for many years with proper care. However, they may be slightly more visible than tooth-colored composite fillings, and are typically more expensive.
Gold fillings: While less common today, gold fillings are exceptionally durable and can last for over 15 years. They are also biocompatible and resistant to corrosion, making them a good option for individuals with allergies or sensitivities. However, they are the most expensive type of filling and are quite noticeable due to their gold color, which may not be aesthetically pleasing for everyone.
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Fillings offer numerous benefits, including:
Improved oral health: Prevents further decay and protects your teeth.
Restored function: Allows you to chew comfortably and pain-free.
Enhanced aesthetics: Improves the appearance of your smile and boosts self-confidence.
Durability: Modern fillings can last for many years with proper care.
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The time it takes for a filling procedure depends on the severity of the damage and the type of filling used. Simple fillings can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, while more complex cases may require multiple appointments.
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You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity after your filling procedure. This is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. We will provide you with specific instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery.