Our team at Floss & Co. would love to meet you and your family and provide you with the dental care you deserve!
Dental Fillings in Garfield Ridge
When tooth decay strikes, eating cold and hot foods, chewing, and other everyday activities you used to do without any thought can suddenly become painful. Fortunately, modern fillings provide an effective solution that preserves tooth function and appearance. Today’s dental materials blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color, eliminating the metallic gleam that once announced dental work to the world.
At Floss & Co., we create fillings that restore your tooth’s integrity while keeping your smile looking completely natural. Our team values your dental health and your confidence, so we use durable, natural-looking composite resin to ensure your filling lasts for years but stays undetectable. Our approach focuses on making the experience comfortable and stress-free, with results that feel as good as they look.
Who May Need a Filling?
Fillings can be an effective treatment for small cavities, which occur due to untreated tooth decay. When bacteria stays in your mouth, it produces acid that erodes tooth enamel and leaves a hole in the tooth. With nearly 90% of adults between 20 and 64 having tooth decay, you’re not alone if you need a filling to repair a damaged tooth.
Fillings act as a protective barrier by replacing the decayed portion of your tooth after it’s been removed, preventing further damage. Signs you may need a filling include the following:
- Visible holes or pits in your teeth
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Pain when biting down or chewing
- Dark spots or discoloration on tooth surfaces
- Food frequently gets caught between certain teeth
Regular dental checkups are crucial for detecting decay early when it’s smaller and easier to treat. This proactive approach often means simpler, less invasive procedures and smaller fillings. In addition to filling cavities, the composite material we use for fillings can fill cracks and chips, reshape the teeth, and conceal discoloration, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of concerns.
What Happens During the Filling Process?
We understand you may feel nervous before getting a filling, so we explain every step of the process to help you know what to expect. Getting a filling is a straightforward, comfortable process designed with your convenience in mind. We prioritize both efficiency and gentle care to ensure optimal results.
While every patient is unique, the filling process generally involves the following steps:
- Examination: A thorough examination helps us determine the extent of the decay and if a filling will be sufficient to preserve your tooth. If you need a crown, we use same-day technology and digital scanning, eliminating the need for goopy impressions.
- Local anesthesia: We administer a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Decayed tissue removal: We remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the tooth to prepare it for the filling.
- Filling material: Next, we apply filling material custom-made to match the color of your teeth. This creates a natural look that boosts your confidence and protects your teeth from future damage.
- Final touches: Finally, we shape and polish the tooth for a natural appearance and a comfortable bite.
The entire process usually takes less than an hour per tooth, though this can vary depending on the size and location of the cavity. Our team works efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of care, ensuring you receive a durable, aesthetically pleasing filling that protects your tooth for years to come.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Fillings?
When you think of dental fillings, you may picture shiny metal on your teeth that stand out when you smile or laugh. However, filling technology has come a long way with composite resin and natural-looking solutions. Dental fillings offer numerous advantages beyond just treating cavities, including the following:
Protection and Prevention
Fillings create a protective barrier that prevents bacteria from accessing the vulnerable inner portions of your tooth. By sealing off areas where decay has been removed, fillings help prevent further damage and potential complications like infections or abscesses. This protective quality makes fillings an essential part of preventive dental care.
Restored Function
When tooth decay creates cavities, chewing is often difficult and uncomfortable. Fillings restore your tooth’s original shape and structure, returning full functionality and proper bite alignment. This restoration allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Aesthetic Improvements
Modern composite fillings fix small chips, close minor gaps, and even reshape slightly misaligned teeth. These cosmetic benefits extend beyond cavity treatment, making fillings a versatile solution for minor aesthetic concerns. The natural appearance of tooth-colored fillings makes you feel proud to show off your smile.
Cost-Effective Solution
Fillings are one of the most economical ways to address tooth decay. By treating cavities early with fillings, you can avoid more extensive and expensive procedures like root canals or crowns that might become necessary if decay progresses. This preventive approach saves both time and money in the long run.
Schedule Your Filling Appointment Today
At Floss & Co., we use the latest techniques and materials to make dental fillings a comfortable, efficient experience. Our trusted professionals are dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care that emphasizes dental health and aesthetics. We take the time to understand your concerns and preferences, ensuring treatments align with your specific needs.
Don’t wait until a small cavity becomes a bigger problem. Our gentle approach, state-of-the-art technology, and commitment to patient comfort make addressing decay easier than you might expect. Contact Floss & Co. today at (773) 586-5522 or reach out through our contact form to schedule your appointment.