Dental Fillings
Even with the best preventive dental care, some patients will still develop tooth decay. Cavities are holes in teeth caused by acids that erode and destroy the enamel, leaving teeth vulnerable to the bacteria that cause decay.
Keeping up with your regular dental checkups every six months will allow us to catch tooth decay while in the early stages, and treating it with a simple filling rather than more involved procedures down the road. At Laguna Oaks Dental, we are committed to providing quality, personalized dental care. We are all about keeping your smile looking and feeling its best!
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorations used to repair cavities and preserve teeth. Once a tooth becomes decayed, it is necessary to treat it promptly to avoid further damage. Dental fillings are also used to restore broken, cracked, or worn teeth. They work to restore the form, function, health, and aesthetics of a damaged tooth. If left untreated, your teeth may need more involved procedures down the road, including root canal therapy, crowns, extractions, implants, or dentures.
Porcelain or ceramic fillings look and feel like your natural teeth, offering a durable, aesthetic solution. They resist staining and can last more than 15 years. Their only drawback is that they are costly as compared to other types of fillings.
Types of Dental Fillings
Today, there are different types of filling materials available to you. The most commonly used ones are silver amalgam, composite resin, and porcelain. The fillings used will depend on the location of the tooth treated, and the extent of the damage. We will work with you to discuss your options and recommend the filling material that would work best for you.
Silver amalgam fillings have been around for decades. They are durable and can last more than 15 years. Their main disadvantage is their silver color, which tends to become darker over time.
Composite resin fillings, made of powdered glass and acrylic resins, blend well with surrounding teeth. They work best for small to midsize restorations that withstand a moderate amount of chewing pressure.
What Should You Expect?
Getting a filling is a straightforward procedure that we can complete during one visit to our office. We will start by numbing the area using a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. We will then remove the decay and replace it with a dental filling. We will shape, smooth and polish your restoration. Depending on the material we use, we may need to use a curing light to harden it. Your restored tooth will allow you to bite and chew comfortably.
Caring for Your Dental Fillings
Caring for your fillings will not differ from caring for your natural teeth. Make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, and floss daily. Keeping up with your dental checkups and cleaning once every six months will allow us to check on your fillings and will lower your risk of developing cavities or gum disease.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact us at Laguna Oaks Dental to learn more about dental fillings and the other services we offer. Our highly trained and experienced team is committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
Call us at (916) 647-4151 to schedule your appointment today!