Dental fillings

Dental Fillings

Treating Cavities In Charlotte, NC

Dental fillings repair teeth that are affected by tooth decay, and they are one of the most common services that we offer. Most people have around three dental fillings. However, it is not uncommon for a person to have multiple dental fillings. There are several different types of materials used to create fillings, and our experienced dentists will help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle.

What Is A Cavity?

Cavities, or tooth decay, are holes in the tooth caused by bacteria that have worn away the enamel of the tooth. Bacteria can be caused by the consumption of sugary drinks and food alongside poor daily dental habits and infrequent dental cleanings. Cavities vary in intensity, and most mild to moderate cavities are treated with dental fillings. Left untreated, they can lead to pain, infections and even the loss of a tooth. If ignored, the tooth decay that causes cavities can spread farther into your tooth, which requires a root canal. The more advanced the tooth decay, the more intensive, expensive and difficult to treat the tooth becomes.

Types Of Dental Fillings

At Stewart Dental, we understand the seriousness of something happening to your smile. In the case of an accident, we recommend that patients follow these steps as calmly and carefully as possible:

Amalgam fillings

Though made of a combination of materials, these fillings are silver in appearance. Due to their durable nature, they are most commonly used in children and with large cavities in the back teeth. They also take less time to place than other fillings, which is another reason they are a popular choice for young patients.

These tooth-colored fillings are a popular option for many patients due to their natural-looking appearance. Composite fillings treat small to medium-sized spaces, but they are slightly less durable than amalgams and may need to be replaced more quickly.

Perhaps the most uncommon of all fillings, gold fillings are typically used on small cavities. However, they are incredibly durable and long-lasting.

Clear and aesthetically pleasing, porcelain fillings are stronger than resin fillings and are a good option for the molars.

An inlay is a custom-made piece of material that is fused to the surface of a tooth, while an onlay covers the entire tooth. Onlays are used in the case of significant decay that cannot be treated with a filling.

Your Filling Treatment At Stewart Dental Group

If our dentists discover a cavity that needs to be filled, we first talk with our patients about their options. During this consultation, we take both our recommendation and the patient’s preferences into consideration.

Dr. Melissa and Randall Stewart begin the procedure by numbing the tooth, which will help eliminate any pain. Then, our dentists will remove decay using a dental drill. When the decay has been effectively removed, we will shape the tooth to prepare it for the filling by applying an acid gel, which will help the filling bond securely to the tooth. The filling is then placed and cured with a special light. The last step is polishing the tooth and checking the patient’s bite to ensure a perfect fit.

After your procedure, you may experience some sensitivity in the area for two to four weeks. If the tooth sensitivity lasts for much longer, call our office at (704) 476-2404.

Dental Fillings FAQs

Dental fillings are used to treat tooth decay (cavities), repair cracked or broken teeth and address minor tooth imperfections. They help restore the tooth’s integrity and durability as well as prevent further decay.

Several materials can be used, including silver, composite resin (tooth-colored material), porcelain and gold. The choice of material depends on factors like aesthetics, location of the filling and budget.

You should not feel pain during the procedure, which is done with local anesthesia. After the anesthesia wears off, some people may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, which usually subsides within a few days.

It depends on the size and location of the cavity, but it typically takes around 30 minutes.

Yes, you can generally eat and drink shortly after your procedure. Avoid excessively hot or cold foods and drinks until any numbness wears off.