Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common dental treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay or trauma. They involve filling cavities, or holes in the teeth, with materials that restore their structure and function. Fillings not only prevent further decay but also help to restore the tooth’s appearance and strength.

When Do You Need a Filling?

Any time you experience tooth decay (cavity) or dental trauma, you will probably need a dental filling to repair the tooth and prevent further damage. Decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the enamel, leading to cavities. If left untreated, cavities can deepen and cause pain, infection, and tooth loss. Dental fillings are essential for addressing these issues and preserving the affected tooth.

5 Signs You Need a Filling

• Tooth Pain or Sensitivity: Persistent toothache or sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks can indicate tooth decay. When the enamel is compromised, the tooth’s inner layers become more vulnerable to temperature changes and stimuli, causing discomfort.
• Visible Holes or Pits: If you notice visible holes, pits, or dark spots on the surface of your teeth, it could be a sign of decay. These areas indicate that the enamel has been weakened and eroded, creating spaces where bacteria can accumulate and further damage the tooth.
• Chipped or Fractured Teeth: Teeth that are chipped, fractured, or have rough edges are more susceptible to decay and may require fillings to restore their integrity. Trauma or grinding can weaken the enamel, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate and cause decay.
• Pain When Biting or Chewing: Discomfort or pain when biting or chewing food can indicate a cavity or other dental issues that may require a filling. This pain occurs because chewing pressure exposes the tooth’s damaged area, triggering nerves and causing discomfort.
• Persistent Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste: Chronic bad breath or a persistent unpleasant taste in the mouth can be signs of advanced tooth decay. Bacteria thrive in the cavities created by decay, releasing foul-smelling gases and causing an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Why We Use Tooth-Colored Fillings

Flagstaff Downtown Dental strives to provide the best combination of durability and aesthetics when filling damaged teeth. Silver/mercury fillings are not very attractive and result in a weaker tooth structure. Today’s composite fillings are more attractive, virtually unnoticeable, and stronger than silver fillings- thanks to the latest dental bonding technologies.

We Can Safely Replace Your Old Silver Fillings

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations. This process usually only requires one appointment.

What to Expect at Your Appointment:

1. A rubber dam isolates the area to be worked on. This prevents ingestion of the old silver amalgam and allows a dry field for placing the moisture-sensitive, tooth-colored fillings.
2. The old filling and any decay leaking underneath the old filling are removed.
3. The new filling, made of a tooth-colored composite resin, is added gradually until the tooth is filled.
4. The new filling is polished to remove sharp edges and ensure the tooth and filling look natural.

Drs. Stowell, Blane, and Bacon have successfully placed thousands of these types of fillings over the last 30 years.

Composite fillings restore decayed or damaged teeth to a natural look and feel while strengthening them and protecting them from future damage.. Contact our office today at Flagstaff Downtown Dental Office Phone Number 928-774-1168 to schedule an appointment.