Tooth Filling Services
settingsA tooth filling restores a tooth that has been damaged by decay, trauma, or misuse. Some conditions that could require a filling include:
- Cavities
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Worn-down teeth*
Dr. Strandburg offers two types of fillings: metal fillings and tooth-colored fillings. The location of the tooth in your mouth, as well as your aesthetic preference, will determine which type of filling we use.
* Teeth wear down from bad habits like frequent nail biting, teeth grinding, or using your teeth to open packages or containers.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are more aesthetic, as they closely resemble your natural tooth. This type of filling is ideal for front teeth but can also be used on back teeth.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are as strong as they are aesthetic, and they do not stain as easily as composite fillings. This type is more expensive than composite fillings and requires the use of a dental laboratory for fabrication.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are translucent and blend well with the natural color of your tooth. They also release small amounts of fluoride to help prevent tooth decay. Glass ionomer fillings generally do not last as long as composite fillings.
Metal Fillings
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are stronger, more durable, and less expensive than composite fillings. This type of filling is often used on teeth that are not visible when you smile.
Cast Gold Fillings
Cast gold fillings are extremely strong and long-lasting. However, they are also the most expensive type of filling available. These fillings are also typically used on teeth that cannot be seen when smiling.
What to Expect During a Tooth Filling
Filling services can vary between cases. However, we generally perform the following steps when restoring your tooth with a filling:
Numb the Area
We will numb the location of the tooth with local anesthesia.
Clean the Tooth
We will clean the damaged area of the tooth, removing bacteria or debris.
Place the Filling
We apply the filling material to the area.
Shape the Filling
We shape the filling to fit your bite correctly.
Fabrication
If we use a gold or porcelain filling, we will take an impression of your tooth and send it to the lab for fabrication. When it is ready, you will return to the office for placement.
Depending on the extent of the damage to your tooth, these steps may need to be adjusted.
Avoid Needing Fillings by Avoiding Cavities
Sometimes, cavities are unavoidable. But you can reduce your risk of developing one with good oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth at least twice per day or after every meal.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day.
- Limit your intake of carbonated beverages and acidic foods or beverages.
- Don’t eat too much sugar.
- Drink lots of water.
- Stop smoking and using smokeless tobacco.
- Receive regular dental exams.
We take annual X-rays at our office to see the decay between your teeth that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
