Dr. Meno and Shamiso Discuss Composite Resin Fillings
SHAMISO: Good morning, Dr. Meno. I’m writing a school project on dental care, and I have a few questions about composite resin fillings. Is that okay?
DR. MENO: Good morning, Shamiso. Absolutely! Composite resin fillings are an excellent topic, and I’m happy to help. Fire away!
SHAMISO: First, how long do composite resin fillings last?
DR. MENO: The duration of composite resin fillings varies. On average, they last between 5 and 10 years, but their longevity depends on several factors like oral hygiene, the size and location of the filling, and habits such as grinding or chewing hard foods.
SHAMISO: Interesting! What about the cost?
DR. MENO: At our practice, composite fillings cost $30 at our Machipisa branch in Highfield and Glenview 3 branch, while at our Avonlea branch in Greencroft, they cost $40.
SHAMISO: Why is there a price difference?
DR. MENO: It’s due to operational costs. Suburbs like Avonlea and Greencroft have higher running costs. However, the quality of the equipment and procedures remains the same across all locations, and the same dentists rotate between the branches.
SHAMISO: Got it. What about consultation fees?
DR. MENO: Consultation is a one-time fee of $10 per year. It covers your clinical assessment and administrative onboarding, ensuring we fully understand your dental health before treatment. It’s unethical for a clinician to operate on you without a proper assessment.
SHAMISO: Some clinics don’t charge consultation fees. Why do you?
DR. MENO: That’s a good observation. Some clinicians may waive the fee out of generosity, but it’s not a right or standard practice. Worldwide, consultations are charged to cover the initial evaluation and planning.
SHAMISO: I see. Now, is a composite filling strong enough for front teeth?
DR. MENO: Yes, composite fillings work well for front teeth because they match the natural tooth color. However, for durability, crowns may be a better option for teeth under a lot of stress, as they provide more tensile strength. Sometimes, we recommend fillings as a temporary solution while patients save for crowns.
SHAMISO: What should someone do if their filling cracks?
DR. MENO: They should return immediately to get it refilled before the damage worsens. The same applies if they notice high spots or difficulty chewing. High spots can sometimes be missed during the initial visit due to anesthesia, so follow-up visits are important.
SHAMISO: What about hypersensitivity after getting a filling?
DR. MENO: Some sensitivity is normal for a few days after a filling, especially to hot or cold foods. If it persists beyond a week, it could indicate an issue, like a high spot or an irritated nerve. In that case, the patient should return for an adjustment.
SHAMISO: One last question—do you still offer amalgam or metal fillings?
DR. MENO: No, we’ve moved away from amalgam and metal fillings in favor of composite resin. They’re safer, more aesthetically pleasing, and better for your overall health.
SHAMISO: Thanks so much, Dr. Meno! This has been really helpful.
DR. MENO: You’re welcome, Shamiso! Dental care is an important topic, so keep spreading the word. And remember, oral health is a gateway to overall health!