Fillings
Get Back to a Healthy Smile with Dental Fillings at Clarkson Family Dentistry
Cavities Happen—Let’s Fix Them Painlessly!
Nobody likes hearing they have a cavity, but at Clarkson Family Dentistry, we make getting a dental filling quick, easy, and pain-free. Whether it’s your first cavity or just time for a replacement filling, we’ve got you covered. Our fillings are designed to restore your tooth’s strength and appearance, so you can get back to smiling with confidence.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a treatment used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay (a cavity). When a cavity forms, we remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill the space with a durable material to prevent further damage and restore your tooth’s function.
Fillings not only stop the decay from spreading but also help your tooth look and feel just like normal. Best of all, the process is quick and painless!
Types of Fillings We Offer
At Clarkson Family Dentistry, we offer different types of fillings to suit your needs. During your visit, we’ll help you decide which option is best based on the location of the cavity and your preferences.
Tooth-Colored Fillings (Composite Fillings)
- Made from a durable resin that matches the color of your natural teeth.
- Blends in perfectly, making it nearly impossible to tell you’ve had a filling.
- Ideal for small to medium cavities, especially in visible areas like front teeth.
Silver (Amalgam) Fillings
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- Made from a mix of metals, including silver, mercury, and tin.
- Extremely durable and a good option for larger cavities in the back teeth where chewing pressure is higher.
- More noticeable due to their silver color, but highly effective in restoring teeth.
Why Do I Need a Filling?
Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which can develop over time due to plaque buildup. When you eat or drink sugary or acidic foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that can wear away at your tooth’s enamel. If this damage isn’t treated, it can lead to:
- Tooth Pain or Sensitivity
You may feel discomfort or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Further Decay
If a cavity is left untreated, the decay can worsen, potentially leading to more serious dental problems like infections or the need for a root canal.
- Damage to Your Tooth Structure
As decay progresses, it can weaken your tooth, leading to chips, cracks, or even tooth loss.
A filling stops the decay in its tracks, restores your tooth’s strength, and helps prevent future damage.
What to Expect During a Filling Procedure
Getting a filling is a simple, routine procedure that only takes about an hour. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Numbing the Area
We’ll start by applying a local anesthetic to numb the area around your tooth, so you won’t feel a thing during the procedure.
2. Removing the Decay
Once the area is numb, we’ll gently remove the decayed portion of your tooth using specialized tools.
3. Filling the Tooth
After the decay is removed, we’ll clean the area and fill the space with the material of your choice (tooth-colored composite or silver amalgam). The filling is then shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth.
4. Polishing and Finishing
Finally, we’ll polish the filling and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable. That’s it—you’re good to go!
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you’re looking for a natural-looking option, tooth-colored fillings (composite) are a great choice. Here’s why our patients love them:
- Blends with Your Natural Teeth: Tooth-colored fillings are custom-matched to your natural tooth color, so no one will even know you have a filling.
- Strong and Durable: Composite fillings are made from a strong resin material that holds up well, especially for small to medium-sized cavities.
- Preserves More of Your Tooth: Composite fillings bond directly to your tooth, which means less drilling and more of your natural tooth is preserved.
- No Mercury: Some patients prefer composite fillings because they don’t contain mercury, unlike traditional amalgam fillings.
How to Care for Your Fillings
Taking care of your fillings is easy—just treat them like your natural teeth! Here are a few tips to keep your fillings (and your teeth) in great shape:
- Brush and Floss Daily
Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent future cavities from forming around your fillings.
- Regular Check-ups
Visit us regularly for cleanings and exams so we can keep an eye on your fillings and make sure they’re holding up well.
- Avoid Biting Hard Objects
Be mindful of biting down on very hard foods or objects (like ice, pens, or nails) to avoid damaging your fillings.
With proper care, your fillings can last for many years!
FAQs About Fillings
Does getting a filling hurt?
Not at all! We use local anesthesia to completely numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. You might feel a little pressure, but it’s totally painless.
How long do fillings last?
With good oral hygiene, fillings can last anywhere from 5-15 years, depending on the material and location of the filling.
Can I eat right after getting a filling?
You can eat right after a filling, but it’s a good idea to wait until the numbness wears off so you don’t accidentally bite your tongue or cheek. We recommend sticking to softer foods for the first day.
What’s the difference between composite and amalgam fillings?
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and blend in with your natural teeth, making them a great option for visible areas. Amalgam (silver) fillings are stronger and more durable, making them better for larger cavities or back teeth that endure more pressure when chewing.
Ready to Get That Cavity Fixed? Book Your Appointment Today!
If you think you might have a cavity or need a filling replaced, don’t wait! Call us at (770) 532-4419 or use our online booking form to schedule your appointment. At Clarkson Family Dentistry, we’re here to make sure your teeth stay healthy and pain-free with quick, comfortable dental fillings.