Restore the strength and appearance of your teeth
Fillings are one of the most common treatments we perform. They help repair and rebuild the structure of your tooth, while also preventing further decay or infection. At our clinic, we use composite resin, a tooth colored material that bonds well to your tooth surface and allows us to fill smaller areas. This means we can preserve more of your natural tooth with less drilling, compared to traditional metal fillings.
Why are fillings important?
Many people delay getting a filling, especially if there is no pain yet. But waiting too long can lead to bigger problems. Here is why it is best to treat cavities early:
- Stops cavities from growing
- Prevents painful infections or abscesses
- Restores strength and durability to your tooth
- Saves money by avoiding more serious procedures
- Reduces sensitivity to hot or cold
- Helps preserve your natural teeth as long as possible
What to expect when getting a cavity filled
Numbing the area
We begin by carefully numbing your gums so the surrounding area is fully frozen. We take our time during this step to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. You may feel a small pinch, but most patients report little to no discomfort once the freezing takes effect.
Cleaning and filling
Once you are fully numb, the decayed part of the tooth is removed and the area is thoroughly cleaned. We then apply a special gel and place a tooth colored composite resin. This material is shaped and smoothed to match your bite and the natural curves of your tooth.
Curing and polishing
The resin is hardened with a special LED light. Once cured, the filling is checked for a precise fit and polished until it feels smooth and natural.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, such as daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, your composite fillings can last ten years or longer.
Older fillings were often made from a material called dental amalgam, also known as “silver” or “mercury” fillings. Although some people have concerns about amalgam, the American Dental Association states that research has not shown a clear link between amalgam fillings and illness in the general population. If you have existing silver fillings, there is no need to worry unless they are damaged or failing.
Some drugstores sell temporary filling materials, but these are not a substitute for professional treatment. Cavities are permanent damage that require a dental professional to clean and properly restore. Ignoring a cavity or relying on a home remedy can lead to serious problems, including infection or tooth loss.
If you are in severe pain, especially if it keeps you from eating or sleeping, please call us right away. This may be a dental emergency and we will do our best to see you as soon as possible.
In the meantime, you can try:
- Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
- Taking a pain reliever such as acetaminophen (like Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil)
Always follow dosage instructions and let us know what you took, how much, and when you took it when you arrive at the clinic.
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