Dental Fillings and Icon Procedure in Issaquah

Drill-Less Tooth Restorations at Remarkable Smiles

Always searching out the most advanced methods, Dr. Jorgensen at Remarkable Smiles enhances the patient experience with modern technology. As an alternative to possible future full-on dental prosthesis surgery, Dr. Jorgensen can, in some cases, use a technique called the “Icon Procedure” for comfortable, drill-less tooth restorations. Dr. Jorgensen makes painless dentist visits in Issaquah,WA possible and easy.

How Does the Icon Procedure Work?

“Well, it’s actually quite simple,” explains Issaquah dentist, Dr. Jorgensen. “The Icon Procedure is a painless and special process where a tooth is first treated with a special cleaner, and then a liquid micro-particle composite infiltrant material is applied to the tooth. This material infiltrates into the enamel, strengthening the damaged portion of the tooth.”

• No drills
• No pain
• No removal of tooth surface

And your tooth enamel stays intact! The Icon Procedure is the most effective approach to fixing early and fairly small cavities, before more drastic measures, such as drilled tooth fillings or dental prosthesis, are required. Another benefit of the Icon Procedure is it provides a practical solution for individuals who are left with little white spots after having their braces removed. This is a quick and painless way to remove those unsightly spots immediately. Want to find out more? Call us today at (425) 391-0484!

What Are Dental Fillings? When Would I Need One?

When you have a cavity, there’s a decayed part of your tooth that will keep getting bigger the longer it goes untreated. Dental fillings are used to fill cavities by replacing the decayed material and are one of the most common dental procedures performed. People young and old develop cavities – they’re a universal dental problem often caused by plaque and bacteria attacking your tooth enamel due to poor lifestyle and hygiene choices. Fillings are also used to repair broken or worn-down teeth due to excessive nail-biting or tooth-grinding habits.

What Happens If I Need a Filling and Don’t Get It?

Because cavities tend to get worse the longer they’re ignored, we recommend getting a filling sooner rather than later. Eventually, if you don’t get a cavity filled, it could result in bone or tooth loss. Cavities also lead to severe infections and painful abscesses. Trust us; it’s better to get a dental filling now!

What Types of Dental Fillings Are Available?

There are many materials used in dental fillings, ranging from amalgam (silver) fillings to composite resins, ceramics, and even gold. At Remarkable Smiles of Issaquah, we believe in providing our patients with the best services, and that means using nothing but the best materials. Not only do metal-free composite fillings keep your teeth looking completely natural, but they also offer health benefits as well. Metal-free tooth fillings are mercury-free and work to strengthen your teeth. Over time, large silver mercury fillings can weaken the tooth and act as a wedge, causing it to crack.

In these cases, Dr. Jorgensen removes the aging mercury fillings and replaces them with new attractive composite fillings. Research also shows that as silver fillings break down and wear, not only does the tooth become weaker, the free mercury is released and ingested. New composite fillings are much stronger and bond to the tooth rather than just filling in a hole. Issaquah patients are always pleased to see how natural these fillings look! However, even if you got silver fillings years ago, it’s not always necessary to have them removed. We will never recommend an unnecessary procedure.

Are Fillings Painful? Are Fillings Safe?

At Remarkable Smiles, we provide remarkable patient care to ensure your safety and comfort during every procedure. Getting a filling isn’t as bad as it sounds. We always numb the area being drilled, so you only experience mild discomfort if anything at all. Once your cavity is filled, you’ll be amazed by how much better you feel. If you’re especially concerned about a filling procedure being painful, we suggest speaking with our dentist about the Icon Procedure.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last? Can They Be Removed?

How long your dental fillings last depends on the type of filling that was used and your hygiene habits. On average, composite fillings should last at least 5-10 years, while silver (amalgam) fillings may last up to 10-15 years. Gold fillings have been known to last more than 15 years, but patients don’t prefer them because of their cost and visibility. The better you care for your teeth and gums and discourage the formation of cavities, the longer your dental fillings should last.

Are Dental Fillings Covered by Dental Insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover preventative care and necessary repair work, including dental fillings, although this will vary according to your plan, provider, and employer elections. Some plans may require you to pay a deductible or copay for each visit. Our office accepts many plans, including Aetna, Delta Dental, Cigna, MetLife, BlueCross BlueShield, and Washington Dental Service. Contact Remarkable Smiles at (425) 391-0484 to schedule an appointment to find out what’s included in your dental insurance coverage today!