Vahan Grigoryan, DDS
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Implants, INVISALIGN®
Dental Imaging
DENTAL FILLINGS
Are you experiencing discomfort or pain due to a cavity or damaged tooth? Dental fillings may be able to help. These reliable and effective restorations can help repair and strengthen your teeth, bringing back their functionality and relieving any discomfort caused by tooth decay or injuries. Say goodbye to toothaches and hello to a healthier, pain-free smile with the wonders of dental fillings.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth that have been affected by decay, cavities, or minor damage. They are a commonly performed dental procedure designed to restore the functionality, strength, and appearance of teeth that have been compromised.
The process of getting a dental filling typically involves removing the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and replacing it with a suitable filling material. This helps to prevent further decay, restore the tooth's structure, and alleviate any discomfort or sensitivity.
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Several types of filling materials are available, each with its own advantages:
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Composite resin fillings: These tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and glass materials. They are popular due to their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing result. Composite resin fillings are versatile and can be used for both front and back teeth
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Amalgam fillings: Made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury, amalgam fillings are known for their durability and strength. They are especially suitable for posterior teeth that endure heavy chewing forces
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Porcelain fillings: Also known as inlays or onlays, porcelain fillings are custom-made restorations created in a dental laboratory. These fillings are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a natural and pleasing appearance. Porcelain fillings are often used for larger restorations or when tooth conservation is a priority.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Choosing dental bonding as a solution to enhance your smile comes with a multitude of benefits. This versatile and cost-effective treatment offers a range of advantages that can transform the appearance of your teeth and boost your confidence.
Restored Tooth Structure
Fillings restore the structure and function of your teeth, allowing you to chew, bite, and speak comfortably.
Preservation of Tooth Strength
With minimal tooth preparation required, composite fillings help preserve the strength and integrity of the tooth, reducing the risk of future fractures or cracks.
Prevention of Further Decay
By filling cavities and repairing damaged areas, fillings prevent further decay and potential complications, ensuring the long-term health of your teeth.
Improved Oral Health
Dental fillings restore and strengthen the affected teeth, promoting overall oral health. By eliminating decay and sealing off vulnerable areas, fillings contribute to a healthier mouth, reducing the risk of infection and preserving the surrounding teeth.
Aesthetically Pleasing Results
Composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, creating a virtually invisible restoration that enhances the appearance of your smile.
Cost-Effective Solution
Dental fillings are a cost-effective dental treatment option. They provide an affordable way to address cavities and tooth damage, preventing the need for more extensive and expensive procedures in the future.
The Dental Bonding Process
1. Examination and Diagnosis: The dental filling process begins with a comprehensive examination by our dentist. They will visually inspect your teeth and may take dental X-rays to determine the extent of decay or damage. Based on their findings, a diagnosis will be made, and the need for dental fillings will be confirmed.
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2. Numbing the Area: To ensure your comfort during the procedure, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding tissues. This ensures that you experience minimal to no pain during the filling placement.
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3. Removal of Decay: Once the area is numbed, the dentist will carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using specialized dental instruments. The process involves removing the decayed tissue and preparing the tooth for the filling.
4. Tooth Preparation: After removing the decayed portion, the tooth will be prepared for the filling. The dentist will clean the area thoroughly to remove any remaining debris or bacteria. In some cases, an acid gel or adhesive may be applied to enhance the bonding of the filling material to the tooth.
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5. Filling Placement: With the tooth prepared, the dentist will proceed to fill the cavity or damaged area. Various filling materials can be used, including composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain. For composite resin fillings, the material will be applied in layers, each layer being cured with a special light to harden it. The dentist will shape and contour the filling to ensure a comfortable bite and a natural appearance.
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6. Bite Adjustment and Polishing: Once the filling material is in place, the dentist will check your bite to ensure proper alignment when you close your mouth. Adjustments may be made to ensure a comfortable and even bite. Finally, the filling will be polished to a smooth finish, matching the shine and texture of your natural teeth.
