Dental Fillings
Overview
Dental fillings are used to treat cavities and restore teeth damaged by decay. At our office, we use modern, tooth-colored composite resin to preserve both the function and appearance of your teeth—so your smile looks and feels completely natural.
Fillings stop decay in its tracks and protect your tooth from further damage, often preventing the need for more extensive treatment like root canals or crowns.
Procedure Details
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Avoid eating hard or sticky foods on the day of your visit.
Let us know if you have any dental anxiety - comfort options are always available.
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The area is numbed with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
The dentist gently removes all decayed or damaged parts of the tooth.
A bonding agent is applied, followed by the tooth-colored filling material.
The filling is shaped to match your natural bite, then hardened with a curing light.
The dentist will polish the tooth and make final bite adjustments for comfort.
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You may feel slight sensitivity for a few days.
You can eat and drink normally once the numbness wears off.
Avoid chewing directly on the new filling for the first 24 hours if possible.
When might you need this?
Self-Diagnosis Guide
You might need a filling if you notice:
A persistent toothache or sharp pain when eating
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
A visible hole, crack, or dark spot on a tooth
Food constantly getting stuck in a certain area
A previous filling has fallen out or become loose
“Even if you don’t feel anything, your dentist may find early decay on x-rays during your routine checkup - which is the best time to treat it before it worsens…”
Benefits of the Procedure
Immediate Benefits
Stops tooth decay from spreading
Restores the shape and function of your tooth
Fast and painless - usually completed in one visit
Long-Term Benefits
Prevents the need for more serious treatment (like root canals or crowns)
Maintains the integrity of your bite and jaw alignment
Matches your natural tooth color for a seamless smile
FAQs
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Not at all. We numb the area completely, and most patients feel only slight pressure during the procedure.
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Composite fillings typically last 5–10 years with good care—sometimes even longer.
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Yes! We use custom-matched composite materials that blend in beautifully with your smile.
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No—we use only BPA-free, mercury-free materials.
Dental Sealants (for added protection)
Crowns or inlays (for larger restorations)
Oral hygiene tips to prevent future decay
Related Services or Next Steps
Aftercare Instructions
Avoid very hot or cold foods for the first 24 hours if your tooth feels sensitive
Brush and floss normally - just be gentle around the new filling at first
If your bite feels uneven or you have lingering pain, call us for a quick adjustment
