Dental Fillings
What are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a restoration that replaces an area within a tooth that has become decayed. When you have a cavity, the decay needs to be removed and replaced with some type of filling material. We offer amalgam, composite, porcelain and even gold fillings to meet our patients’ needs. Fillings are durable and long-lasting, with most fillings easily staying in place for years and even decades.
Why are Dental Fillings needed?
The most common reason for needing a filling is because you have a cavity. When a cavity forms, the decay begins to eat into the tooth. It goes from the enamel and into the dentin before reaching the inner pulp where the blood supply and nerves are located. Before it’s able to get this deep, the decay is carefully removed and a filling placed into the small hole that was created. Fillings are needed because they prevent sensitivity to the tooth and restore overall beauty to the tooth’s structure.
"I’ve came here since I was younger when the office used to be located near the pavilions 9 years ago. The office has treated me really great and have taken good care of me. Awesome staff and great workers!"
Who is a candidate for Dental Fillings?
To determine if you might need a dental filling, we’ll examine your teeth. This is done by using a small probe called an explorer. In some cases, x-rays are needed to further identify cavities and areas of decay. If you have a cavity and need a filling, we recommend having the procedure done as soon as possible to prevent the decay from getting worse.
What happens during the procedure for Dental Fillings?
We offer a variety of different options when it comes to filling materials. We offer composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, amalgam (metal) and gold fillings. The first step to placing a filling is to numb the area. The decay is then removed from the tooth using a slow speed drill. Once removed, we prepare the tiny hole for the filling. The material of choice is placed into the small hole and then smoothed into place. If the material has to be cured and hardened, a bright light is used to accomplish this. Your new filling will last for many years without showing signs of wear.
If you think you might need a dental filling, call our office today and we can work to get you in for an appointment.
