Repair & Strengthen Your Smile With Dental Fillings

Used to repair cavities, fillings help protect teeth that have experienced decay and restore the function of your teeth. They can also help strengthen weak teeth, preventing further decay or damage that can require more complex and expensive treatments.

If you suspect you may need a filling, our friendly West Delray Smiles team is here to help!

What Materials Comprise Dental Fillings?

The three most common types of dental fillings are amalgam (silver), composite (tooth-colored), and gold. Amalgam is the most inexpensive type of dental filling, but it is also the most visible. Composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam, but they are less visible. Gold fillings are the most expensive type of dental filling, but they are also the longest lasting.

How Are Dental Fillings Applied?

After our dentist freezes your tooth with local anesthetic, decay will be removed before the tooth is prepared for the filling. This involves cleaning and shaping the cavity so that the filling can be applied smoothly and evenly. Once the cavity is prepared, our dentist will place the filling material into the cavity and then harden it with a special light.

How Do I Know If I Need A Filling?

While many patients don’t realize they require a filling until they undergo a visual or x-ray assessment by our team, in some cases, the following symptoms may indicate that your tooth is experiencing decay:

• Toothache or sensitivity when eating sweet or cold foods
• Visible holes in your teeth
• Pain when biting down on food
• Discoloration or staining of the teeth
• Swelling or tenderness in the affected area.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us right away to schedule an examination.

How Should You Care For Your Dental Fillings?

It is important to brush and floss regularly to prevent decay around the edges of the filling. It is also important to see us regularly for checkups and cleanings to ensure your smile remains as healthy as possible – for life!

If you have any questions about dental fillings, please contact our office! We’re here to help.