When dental decay compromises a tooth’s structural integrity, a filling is used to rebuild its natural form and restore its strength and function.
Because tooth decay remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases affecting both children and adults worldwide, procedures to place fillings are routinely performed every day. At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we provide precise and gentle treatment and maintain a position at the forefront of advances in care to provide patients with the highest quality of aesthetically pleasing and durable dental fillings.
Dental fillings have been used for centuries to restore damaged or decayed teeth. In fact, attempts to place dental fillings have been found in the skeletal remains of people who lived around 8000 BC. It wasn't until thousands of years later, in the 19th century, that a variety of metal fillings were developed. Although gold achieved status as a popular restorative material, it was soon apparent that amalgam fillings, consisting of a mixture of mercury and an alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper, offered a less expensive, durable, and simpler alternative.
Until recent decades, the vast majority of dental fillings remained silver-colored, amalgam restorations. However, as dentistry has evolved in the last 50 years, new filling materials have been developed. Today's newer materials offer mercury-free, metal-free, and much more aesthetic options. These "tooth-colored or white fillings" invisibly restore the form and function of the involved tooth, while seamlessly blending in with the remaining tooth structure and the entire smile.
According to archaeological findings, for as long as dental problems have existed, there have been efforts to provide emergency and restorative care. In fact, attempts to place dental fillings have been found in the skeletal remains of people who lived around 8000 BC.
The earliest known dental fillings were made from materials like beeswax and even stones. As civilizations advanced, so did the materials used for dental restorations. The Etruscans, for example, used gold to create dental prosthetics as early as 700 BCE. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that modern dentistry began to take shape with the introduction of metal fillings.
Dental amalgam, a mixture of mercury and other metals like silver, tin, and copper, became a popular choice due to its durability and ease of use. Gold fillings were also commonly used but were more expensive. Over time, advancements in dental technology led to the development of more aesthetic and biocompatible materials, such as composite resins and porcelain.
At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we utilize state-of-the-art techniques and high-quality materials for our patients to experience exceptional treatment outcomes for their fillings. From removing decayed tooth structure and restoring its natural form to ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure, the office of Wendy Granger, DDS is committed to delivering top-tier dental care.
The primary goal of any dental filling is to restore the tooth's functionality and aesthetics. At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we tailor treatment to address specific dental needs and expectations of care. As with all services our practice provides, we'll explain all your options in care, including the type of dental filling materials we offer to restore your tooth.
We understand that every patient is unique, and so are their dental needs. That's why we take the time to listen to your concerns and goals, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored just for you. Our compassionate approach ensures that patients feel at ease, even during complex procedures.
The process of placing a filling begins with the removal of any decayed or damaged tooth structure. This is done using precise dental instruments, often under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Once the decay has been removed, the tooth is cleaned and prepared for the filling material. The type of material used depends on various factors, including the location and extent of the decay.
At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, our commitment extends beyond just placing fillings. We focus on patient education, helping you understand the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support and care, ensuring that your smile stays healthy and bright.
While traditional dental materials like gold and amalgam have been in use for over a century, recent advances in dental technology have made a more expansive and improved selection of restorative choices widely available. Beyond offering strength and durability, these new filling materials provide aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking results.
Composite fillings, frequently referred to as either "tooth-colored fillings" or "white fillings," consist of a combination of biocompatible resins and finely ground, glass-like filler materials that become strong and durable when set.
Available in a complete range of natural-looking shades, composite fillings offer a cosmetically pleasing alternative to traditional "silver" fillings. Composite resins are also used in dental bonding procedures to improve a tooth's color or shape, mask defects, or close minor gaps between teeth.
Composite fillings adhere to the natural tooth structure through a bonding process, which also serves to seal and strengthen the tooth. Beyond providing a close match to your natural tooth color, a composite filling does not require removing as much tooth structure for placement, nor are they subject to expansion or contraction with temperature changes as is the case with dental amalgams.
For many years, amalgam fillings represented the standard of care for restoring decayed teeth. While they don't offer the cosmetic appeal of other types of filling materials, amalgam restorations are strong, durable, and less likely than some other types of fillings to break or wear down.
Dental amalgams are made from a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. They have been used for over 150 years due to their durability and ease of use. However, concerns about the potential health risks associated with mercury have led to a decline in their popularity. Modern dental practices, including Sterling Plaza Dentistry, offer alternatives that are safer and more aesthetically pleasing.
Another type of white filling material, glass ionomer cements bond to the tooth's surface to provide a tight seal between the tooth and surrounding oral environment. Besides offering a natural-looking restoration, glass ionomer cements slowly release fluoride to strengthen and help protect the involved tooth from future decay.
Since they are not as durable or wear-resistant as other filling materials, glass ionomers are most frequently used to treat baby teeth, cavities near the gumline, and in temporary fillings. They are also useful in areas where aesthetics are not a primary concern, such as the back teeth.
Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are fabricated from the highest quality of dental porcelain and ceramics. As the most stain- and wear-resistant option in tooth-colored fillings, these restorations offer durable, attractive, and long-lasting results.
While "direct" fillings such as dental amalgam and composite fillings get placed immediately after the tooth is prepared, "indirect" fillings such as inlays or onlays get fabricated outside of the mouth before insertion and cementation or bonding. This process ensures a precise fit and superior aesthetics.
Far less common these days and more expensive than any of the other materials, gold fillings remain excellent restorations. With excellent physical and chemical properties, gold fillings are strong, long-lasting, kind to the surrounding tissues, and remain stable over time.
Gold fillings are highly biocompatible and do not corrode or tarnish like some other metals. They are often used in areas of the mouth where there is significant pressure from chewing, such as the molars. However, due to their cost and visibility, gold fillings are less commonly chosen by patients today.
Once our office has a chance to assess your smile, we'll advise you of our findings and outline a comprehensive treatment plan to help ensure your smile is healthy and functions at its best. If any tooth decay is detected, we'll schedule appointments to treat those cavities and place the fillings or restorations that are needed.
At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, patient care and comfort are our top priorities. While treating cavities and placing fillings are among the most routine procedures in dentistry, our office understands you have questions and concerns and will keep you well informed every step of the way.
Treating a cavity involves the precise and gentle removal of decayed and damaged tooth structure and any preparation of the remaining tooth structure needed to secure your new filling. Although every patient and every smile is different, you can expect your visit to take about an hour.
In most cases, this visit is performed under local anesthesia. As the work gets performed, your tooth is completely numb, and you should not feel any discomfort. A dental drill, dental laser, or air abrasion technology can be used to remove decay. Once the cavity gets excavated, and healthy tooth structure remains, it's time to place the filling.
The type of dental filling material being used determines the manner of placement. Composite fillings, glass ionomer cements, and amalgam fillings are typically placed right away. However, in the case of an extensive cavity, a temporary filling may be placed while a custom restoration is fabricated in a dental laboratory.
Whatever type of filling is used, our office will check the fit, do any necessary polishing, and meticulously adjust the bite to ensure your optimal comfort and function.
The process of getting a dental filling involves several steps, each designed to ensure the health and longevity of your tooth. At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, our goal is to help patients enjoy optimal oral health by keeping them well informed throughout the entire procedure.
Immediately after the placement of a new filling, it's essential to keep the following in mind:
Until the anesthesia wears off
You may experience a period of lingering numbness. Normal sensation typically returns within an hour or two. However, until the anesthetic has completely worn off, it's essential to protect yourself from unintentionally biting or injuring your lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue.
Now that your tooth has been restored and rebuilt, it may feel slightly different
While we take the utmost care to polish your new filling and make sure the bite is correct, on rare occasions, a patient may feel additional minor smoothing or further bite adjustment is required.
You may experience short-term sensitivity
It's perfectly normal for a tooth to feel a little sensitive following the placement of a filling. You may experience a twinge when eating cold or hot foods and beverages. This sensitivity should subside by itself within a few days.
Caring for your new restoration
Our office uses the latest generations of strong and durable filling materials. With proper oral hygiene and routine care, your new filling should last for many years to come. However, in cases of extensive tooth decay or injury to the underlying tooth, even the best restoration may need to be replaced.
If you have any additional questions or concerns, feel free to contact us. At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and ensuring that your dental experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. During these visits, your dentist can detect and treat cavities in their early stages, preventing them from becoming more serious issues. Early detection and treatment of cavities can save you time, discomfort, and potential complications down the road.
At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we emphasize preventive care as a key component of our dental services. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor your oral health closely and address any concerns promptly. During these visits, we perform thorough examinations, including X-rays if necessary, to identify any signs of decay or other issues.
In addition to detecting cavities, regular dental check-ups help maintain the overall health of your teeth and gums. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to gum disease and other oral health problems. Regular visits also provide an opportunity for our team to educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, helping you take better care of your teeth at home.
At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we understand that regular dental check-ups may not always be convenient or enjoyable, but they are essential for maintaining good oral health. Our goal is to make your visits as comfortable and efficient as possible, ensuring that you leave with a healthy smile and peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and take the first step toward optimal oral health.
If the pleasure of eating a delicious bowl of ice cream or sipping a soothing cup of tea gets overshadowed by dental pain that makes you wince; it's time to contact our office. As skilled providers of care, we'll determine what's causing your discomfort and perform the treatment required to alleviate your symptoms and get you back on the road to oral health.
Cavities develop because of an infectious process that causes progressive damage to tooth structure. Despite starting as a pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay progressively compromises more and more healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of your tooth.
Yes, you can still develop tooth decay on other surfaces of the tooth, around the margins of an old filling, or in fewer instances, recurrent decay underneath it. For this reason, it's essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene, a diet low in sugary beverages and sweets, and be sure to visit our office for routine checkups and care. While tooth decay is second only to the common cold in frequency, it's almost entirely preventable.
We value the time and comfort of our patients. If cavities are located on adjacent teeth, or in the same section of your smile, it may be possible to treat more than one tooth during your visit. However, how much is done each visit depends on several factors. We keep our patients well informed and tailor every treatment plan and visit to address their unique needs.
Addressing concerns on the presence of elemental mercury in silver fillings, the American Dental Association (ADA), The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the FDA, and the World Health Organization have all stated that amalgam restorations do not pose a risk to health. However, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to the metals in dental amalgam are advised to pursue other restorative options.
Dental fillings are performed under local anesthesia to help ensure your comfort throughout the entire procedure. The involved tooth remains completely numb for the extent of your visit. Within one or two hours after the procedure is completed, the local anesthetic will gradually wear off, and normal sensations return.
A tooth-colored composite filling is fully hardened and set by the end of your visit. However, we may advise you to wait a couple of hours until the local anesthesia has completely worn off. This advice is to help ensure you don't accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue while still numb.
The lifetime of a dental filling varies depending on the type of material used. While popular dental materials can last a decade or more with proper care, they can degrade over time, wear down, or even break. When this happens, you may experience some tooth sensitivity, a jagged edge, or a loose or dislodged piece of filling material. Whatever the case may be, it's essential to get the filling replaced before the tooth sustains further damage or other consequences arise. Beyond taking good care of your smile to help ensure the longevity of your fillings, our office regularly checks the status of your existing fillings as part of a routine checkup exam.
Dental fillings are an essential investment that serves to preserve and protect the health of your smile. With that said, how much a filling costs depends on the number of surfaces of the tooth involved and the filling material that is used. Amalgam restorations are the most economical. While tooth-colored composite fillings have a slightly higher cost, they offer the added benefits of being metal-free and much more aesthetically pleasing. Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are more expensive than the preceding options but provide outstanding, long-lasting, and natural-looking results.
Dental insurances typically cover the cost of dental fillings. While we work with you to maximize your insurance benefits, there may still be an out-of-pocket expense. At the office of Sterling Plaza Dentistry, we strive to help you begin care without any additional financial stress or delay.
Ready to schedule your next dental appointment or have questions about our services?
Contacting Sterling Plaza Dentistry is easy! Our friendly staff is available to assist you with scheduling appointments, answering inquiries about treatment options, and addressing any concerns you may have. Whether you prefer to give us a call, send us an email, or fill out our convenient online contact form, we're here to help. Don't wait to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams – reach out to us today and discover the difference personalized dental care can make.
