A filling is used to repair damage or holes in the teeth from cavities and dental trauma. After drilling away the tooth decay, we can rebuild the tooth by bonding strong materials to your tooth that restore the appearance and functionality of your tooth.
Fillings are the most effective treatment for early-stage tooth decay and prevent the decay from reaching the deeper layers of the tooth which can require more invasive treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
What to Expect: The Dental Filling Process
Consultation
Local Anesthetic
Drilling
Filling Application
01
Consultation
Our team will examine your teeth and take x-rays to assess the severity of tooth decay or damage.
02
Local Anesthetic
First, we will administer a local anesthetic to numb your mouth so you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
03
Drilling
Once your mouth is numb, we will use a drill or a handheld burr to remove active tooth decay.
04
Filling Application
Then, we will apply an etching solution to the tooth that will roughen the surface of the tooth and help the bonding material stick. Composite resin is then applied and cured with UV light in layers.
Filling Options
Composite Fillings
While silver amalgam fillings used to be the traditional go-to filling in all dental practices, they’re becoming obsolete now that we have modern alternatives like composite resin. While amalgam is a strong and durable material, it also contains mercury which poses health concerns and patients aren’t happy that they turn their teeth noticeably silver.
Composite fillings, on the other hand, are tooth-colored, so no one can tell the difference between your natural teeth and your fillings. They also enable us to preserve more of your natural tooth structure, which is always preferable because larger fillings can create the need for dental crowns to protect the teeth.
Amalgam fillings would take up to 24 hours to completely harden but composite fillings instantly harden when exposed to UV light. What does this mean for you? You can eat as soon as the anesthetic wears off.
Have Questions About Dental Fillings? Find Answers Here.
The dental filling procedure is painless because we use local anesthesia to eliminate all pain sensations. Your mouth is completely numb for several hours so you don’t have to worry about feeling any pain. Some patients naturally still feel nervous which is why we offer dental sedation to calm your nerves.
You may need a dental filling if you experience symptoms like tooth sensitivity, pain when chewing, visible holes, or dark spots on your teeth. Cavities and minor tooth damage are the most common reasons for fillings, and early treatment helps prevent more serious issues like root canals.
Getting a dental filling is typically a quick and straightforward procedure that can be completed in about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. Most fillings are done in a single visit, allowing you to restore your tooth and return to your normal routine the same day.
Yes, dental fillings can wear down, crack, or loosen over time due to daily chewing and biting. While many fillings last for years, they may eventually need to be repaired or replaced to prevent further decay and maintain your oral health. Regular dental checkups help detect any issues early.
