Dental fillings are a common and effective treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay or minor injuries. At Garfield Dental in Traverse City, MI, Dr. Kristen Guptill uses tooth-colored fillings that blend naturally with your smile while restoring your tooth’s strength and function.
When bacteria in your mouth combine with food particles, they create a sticky substance called plaque. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, this plaque can lead to tooth decay. Decay creates small holes in your teeth called cavities. Dental fillings are used to fill these cavities after the decay has been removed, preventing further damage and preserving your natural tooth.
Types of Dental Fillings We Offer
At Garfield Dental, we prioritize both the health and appearance of your smile. Dr. Guptill offers modern tooth-colored composite fillings that provide several advantages over traditional metal fillings:
Composite Resin Fillings: These tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and glass materials. They bond directly to your tooth structure, requiring less removal of healthy tooth material. We custom-match the color to your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
Porcelain Inlays and Onlays: For larger areas of decay or damage that don’t require a full crown, we may recommend porcelain inlays or onlays. These are custom-made in a dental laboratory and provide exceptional durability and a natural appearance.
What Dental Fillings Can Treat
Dental fillings are versatile treatments that can address several dental issues:
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Small chips or cracks in teeth
- Worn teeth from grinding or clenching
- Replacement of old, failing fillings
- Minor tooth fractures
- Sensitive areas of exposed tooth roots
Early treatment with dental fillings can prevent more extensive and expensive dental procedures in the future. When decay is caught early, a simple filling can often save your tooth from needing a root canal or extraction later.
What to Expect During Your Dental Filling Procedure
Getting a dental filling at Garfield Dental is a straightforward process that Dr. Guptill completes in just one visit.
Examination
Dr. Guptill will examine your tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of decay.
Preparation
The area around your tooth will be numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Decay Removal
Using specialized dental tools, Dr. Guptill will gently remove the decayed portion of your tooth and clean the area thoroughly.
Filling Placement
For composite fillings, the tooth-colored material is applied in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light before the next layer is applied.
Shaping and Polishing
Once the filling material is in place, Dr. Guptill will shape it to match your natural bite and polish it for a smooth finish.
The entire procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. You’ll be able to eat and drink shortly after your appointment, though we recommend waiting until the numbness wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Benefits of Cavity Prevention and Treatment
Treating cavities promptly with dental fillings offers numerous benefits:
- Prevents Further Decay: Fillings seal off areas where bacteria could enter, stopping the progression of decay.
- Preserves Natural Teeth: By treating decay early, you can avoid more invasive procedures like root canals or extractions.
- Restores Function: Fillings rebuild damaged tooth structure, allowing you to chew and speak normally.
- Relieves Pain: Treating cavities eliminates the pain and sensitivity often associated with tooth decay.
- Enhances Appearance: Modern tooth-colored fillings blend with your natural teeth, maintaining the beauty of your smile.
- Long-lasting Results: With proper care, today’s dental fillings can last 10-15 years or longer.
Replacing Old Metal Fillings
If you have old silver (amalgam) fillings, Dr. Guptill can replace them with tooth-colored alternatives. Many patients choose to replace their metal fillings for aesthetic reasons or concerns about mercury content. The process is similar to getting a new filling and can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
How long do dental fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, while porcelain inlays and onlays can last 15 years or more with proper care. Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Guptill to monitor your fillings and replace them when necessary.
Are dental fillings painful?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the filling procedure. We use effective local anesthetics to ensure your comfort. After the procedure, you may experience mild sensitivity for a few days, which typically resolves on its own.
Can I eat normally after getting a filling?
Yes, you can eat normally once the numbness wears off. With composite fillings, they harden immediately in the office, so there’s no waiting period before you can use your tooth normally.
How can I tell if I need a filling?
Common signs include tooth sensitivity, pain when biting down, visible holes or pits in your teeth, or dark spots on tooth surfaces. However, many cavities have no symptoms in their early stages, which is why regular dental checkups are essential.
Will my insurance cover dental fillings?
Most dental insurance plans cover fillings as they are considered necessary treatments. Our office staff will help you understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
How can I prevent needing fillings in the future?
The best prevention includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting Dr. Guptill for regular checkups and cleanings.
Request an Appointment
Don’t let tooth decay progress and cause more serious dental problems. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, or it’s time for your regular checkup, contact Garfield Dental today at (231) 518-3715 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kristen Guptill. You can also request an appointment online by filling out our convenient form.