Over time, tooth decay can lead to cavities that require fillings to restore strength and function. The dentists at Fremont Smiles Dentistry offer affordable dental fillings in a variety of natural-looking materials to repair decayed teeth.
Dental fillings are restorative materials used by dentists to repair and restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, cavities, or trauma. The purpose of a dental filling is to:
Remove Decay: Dental fillings are used to remove and replace the portion of a tooth that has been damaged by decay, preventing the decay from spreading further into the tooth.
Restore Tooth Structure: Fillings restore the structural integrity of the tooth, enabling it to function properly for chewing and biting.
Prevent Further Damage: By filling the cavity or damaged area, dental fillings prevent further decay and protect the tooth from additional harm.
Improve Aesthetics: Fillings can be made to match the natural color of the tooth, providing an aesthetic solution to tooth damage.
Over time, tooth decay can lead to cavities that require fillings to restore strength and function. We offer affordable dental fillings in a variety of natural-looking materials to repair decayed teeth.
We provide several tooth-colored filling options that blend seamlessly with your smile:
Composite Resin – This is the most popular modern filling material. It is composed of glass or quartz in an acrylic resin base. The material bonds tightly to the natural tooth for a solid, integrated restoration. Composites come in many natural shades to match your teeth.
Glass Ionomer – Glass ionomer fillings are made from glass particles mixed with an acrylic acid. They release fluoride to help protect the tooth from future decay. Glass ionomer bonds well and is especially useful for root-surface cavities.
Porcelain – Porcelain is one of the most durable and stain-resistant filling materials. It is fabricated from dental ceramics and closely matches the natural color of your teeth. Porcelain mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural enamel.
Silver amalgam – These are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, and others. They are strong and long-lasting but less aesthetically pleasing. (This filling does not match the color of the tooth)
The choice of filling material depends on factors such as the location of the filling, the extent of damage, aesthetic considerations, and the patient’s preferences.
Getting a dental filling is a quick and comfortable process performed right in our office. Here’s what you can expect:
Assessment: We’ll evaluate your dental condition to identify areas that need dental fillings.
Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan and help you decide on the best filling material.
Numbing the Area – We first apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area, then administer a local anesthetic injection to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. This blocks sensation in the tooth.
Tooth Preparation – We use a dental drill to remove any decay material from the tooth and shape the hole so the filling can be inserted properly.
Placement – The filling material is added layer by layer into the prepared cavity and sculpted for proper contour and bite.
Finishing – Finally, we polish and shape the filling for maximum comfort and a natural appearance that matches your surrounding teeth.
Dental fillings and dental crowns serve distinct purposes in restorative dentistry. Dental fillings are used to repair small to moderate cavities or minor tooth damage. They involve removing the damaged portion of the tooth and filling the resulting cavity. Fillings are less invasive, preserving more natural tooth structure, and are typically employed for less severe dental issues.
On the other hand, dental crowns are designed to cover and protect the entire visible portion of a tooth. They are used when a tooth has significant decay, structural weakness, or has undergone root canal treatment. Crowns require more tooth reduction to ensure a proper fit and provide added strength and durability, making them the preferred option for addressing extensive dental damage or for enhancing the long-term stability of a compromised tooth. The choice between a filling and a crown depends on the extent of tooth damage, with fillings suited for smaller issues and crowns reserved for more extensive damage or structural support.
Fillings provide an affordable way to repair damaged teeth and prevent future dental issues.
In most cases, we offer same-day dental fillings for your convenience. Contact us to check availability and book appointment.
With proper oral hygiene and avoiding chewing on hard items, a composite resin filling can last 5-10 years or longer before needing repair or replacement. Heavy biting forces, teeth grinding, nail biting, and consumption of sticky, hard or crunchy foods can prematurely crack fillings. Regular dental visits and cleanings help maximize the longevity of your fillings.
15-30 minutes per filling with no recovery time needed.
Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings fully or partially. We work to maximize your benefits.
Contact our office immediately so we can replace the filling before new decay develops.
Sensitivity is common but temporary as your tooth adjusts to the filling. Let us know if it persists.
If you’re looking for “dental fillings near me” in Fremont, Seattle, or suspect you have a cavity, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team at Fremont Smiles Dentistry is here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with our top-notch dental fillings in Fremont, Seattle. Schedule a consultation with us today to get started on your path to optimal oral health.
