What is a three surface filling?

A three-surface filling will cover three of the following surfaces: occlusal (top of the tooth), mesial (front of the tooth), distal (back of the tooth), facial (side of the tooth facing the cheek), and lingual (side of the tooth facing the tongue).

How long does a 3 surface filling take?

This procedure typically takes anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour but, of course, that time will vary depending on the size and location of the cavity. A filling is a common dental procedure that is often used to repair teeth that are chipped or decayed on one, two or three surfaces when damage is mild to moderate.

Can I get 3 cavities filled at once?

There really isn’t a limit to the number of fillings your dentist can give you at one time. In fact, if you have a few cavities located in the same area (the upper right of your mouth, for example), your dentist can give you a few tooth fillings all at once.

What is a 4 surface filling?

A four-surface silver filling is typically undertaken when cavities are found on what is referred to as the interproximal surface of the tooth. Simply put, these are the surfaces that butt up against the surface of another tooth.

What is the best type of filling?

Types of Dental Fillings: What Type of Tooth Filling is Best for…

• Amalgam Tooth Fillings (Silver Fillings) One of the most common and durable tooth fillings is amalgam (silver) fillings.
• Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings.
• Gold Tooth Fillings.
• Ceramics and Glass Ionomer Tooth Fillings.

How soon can you eat after a filling?

Metal dental fillings do not harden immediately and often dentists will recommend waiting at least 24 hours following the dental filling before eating any solid foods. In order to avoid biting your cheek, tongue, or lips, you will probably want to wait until the local anesthetic wears off before trying to eat.

What happens if you have too many fillings?

Usually, we will stop replacing the dental filling after the hole becomes too large. Once you have more filling material than natural tooth material your tooth no longer holds enough strength. In this instance, you might need an inlay, onlay, or dental crown to protect your tooth.

When do you need a three surface filling?

At times, this procedure can also be done on an anterior tooth if the surface is not readily visible within the smile-zone. A three-surface silver filling is typically undertaken when cavities are found on what is referred to as the interproximal surface of the tooth.

What kind of fillings do you need for small cavities?

A small or medium cavity requires fillings or composites. And a large pit and fissure cavity will most likely need a crown. Both can be provided by your local dentist. 2. Smooth Surface Cavities Smooth-surface cavities occur on the flat exterior surface of the teeth.

When to use a four surface amalgam filling?

It’s also easy to place and hardens quickly, making it a good solution for filling large cavities that form deep in the tooth. Prior to a four-surface amalgam filling, a dentist will first remove any decayed or weakened areas of the tooth, and then use a variety of instruments to prepare the tooth for the filling material.

How much does it cost for a composite filling?

Per-surface fees for composite (resin) dental restorations. Number of Surfaces (sides of the tooth) Cost (Small town) Cost (Large city) One $115.00 $182.00 Two $155.00 $227.00 Three $187.00 $274.00 Four or more. $243.00 $341.00