What Dental Fillings Do for Your Teeth
Dental fillings are used to restore a tooth damaged by decay, returning it to its natural shape and function. At CopperMine Dental Studio, we provide high-quality fillings that protect your teeth, restore their function, and help prevent further damage.
During the procedure, our doctors first remove all decay from the tooth and thoroughly clean the area. The cleaned cavity is then filled with a durable filling material.
Once the filling is in place, it seals the tooth against bacteria, helping prevent future decay. However, maintaining proper brushing and flossing habits is still essential to keep your teeth healthy.
Types of Dental Filling Materials
Dental fillings can be made from a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits and suited for different needs:
- Gold Fillings: Extremely durable and long-lasting, gold fillings provide strength but may not match the natural color of your teeth.
- Silver Fillings (Amalgam): A strong and cost-effective option, amalgam fillings are commonly used for back teeth and offer excellent durability.
- Composite Resin Fillings: Tooth-colored and natural-looking, composite fillings are ideal for front teeth or areas that are visible when you smile.
- Porcelain Fillings: Durable and aesthetically pleasing, porcelain fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them perfect for visible areas.
Our doctors will help you choose the most suitable filling material based on the cavity’s location, your personal preferences, and the overall health and strength of your tooth.
How to Tell If a Tooth Needs a Filling
That’s a great question! You may not always know when a filling is needed, which is why regular dental checkups are so important. Cavities can form without causing pain, and early decay often isn’t visible to the naked eye.
By visiting us for routine exams and cleanings twice a year, our dental team can detect decay early and treat it before it becomes a bigger, more costly problem.
Advantages of Getting Dental Fillings
Dental fillings provide numerous benefits beyond simply restoring a tooth’s function:
- Restores Tooth Function: Fillings repair damaged teeth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably and effectively.
- Prevents Further Decay: By sealing cavities, fillings block bacteria from entering and causing more damage to the tooth.
- Improves Smile Appearance: Tooth-colored fillings, like composite resins, match your natural teeth for a seamless, attractive look.
- Provides Long-Lasting Protection: Fillings help preserve your teeth by preventing decay from spreading, offering lasting dental protection.
Our Approach to Preventing Tooth Decay
If you think you may need a filling or it’s been a while since your last visit, call us at 520-625-1600 or send us an email to schedule a cleaning and consultation. At CopperMine Dental Studio, we help patients from Green Valley, AZ and surrounding communities restore their smiles and protect their teeth from further decay. Detecting cavities early ensures the best possible outcome for your oral health.
FAQs About Dental Fillings
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material and your oral hygiene. Composite fillings typically last 5–10 years, while gold and amalgam fillings can last 10–15 years or longer.Are dental fillings painful?
Placing a filling is usually painless. Your dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.Can a filling fix a cracked tooth?
A filling can restore a cracked tooth if the damage is minor. For more severe cracks, a crown or other restorative treatment may be needed.How do I care for a new filling?
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods immediately after the procedure to protect the filling.Can I eat immediately after getting a filling?
You can generally eat after a filling, but avoid hard or sticky foods until it fully sets. For composite fillings, it’s best to wait at least 24 hours before chewing on that side.