Dental Fillings

A dental filling is a material used to fill a cavity or repair a damaged tooth. Cavities form when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and produces acids that erode the enamel. If left untreated, cavities can penetrate deeper layers of the tooth, causing pain, infection, and tooth loss. Fillings help prevent further decay by restoring the tooth's structure and function after the decayed portion has been removed.

Fillings can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth, as well as teeth that have been worn down due to habits like tooth grinding (bruxism) or nail-biting. They help preserve the tooth's strength and prevent future damage.

Why You Might Need a Dental Filling

There are several reasons why you may need a dental filling, the most common being the treatment of cavities. However, fillings may also be necessary in other situations.  

Cavities

When bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the enamel, this creates a cavity. Without treatment, cavities can worsen, leading to pain and infection or even tooth extraction. Fillings restore the tooth's structure and prevent the progression of decay.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

If you have a tooth that's been cracked or chipped due to injury or general wear and tear, a filling can be used to repair the damaged area and restore the tooth's natural shape and function.

Tooth Wear

Teeth can wear down over time due to habits like grinding or clenching (bruxism) or even aggressive tooth brushing. Fillings can help restore the worn areas and protect the teeth from further damage.

Replacing Old Fillings

Over time, fillings may need to be replaced due to wear, chipping, or if the filling becomes loose. A new filling can protect the tooth against decay and maintain your oral health.

Types of Dental Fillings Available at Fives Pines Dental

At Fives Pines Dental, Dr. Zeller offers a range of dental filling materials to suit different patient needs, preferences, and dental conditions. The main types of fillings available include:

Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings

Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles, providing a natural-looking solution that blends in seamlessly with the color of your teeth. They are particularly popular for visible areas, such as front teeth, because of their aesthetic appeal. 

The Advantages of Composite Fillings:

• Aesthetic: Composite fillings can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible.
• Bonding: Composite materials bond directly to the tooth structure, which provides additional support.
• Versatile: Composite fillings can be used for a variety of dental repairs, including filling cavities, repairing chipped teeth, and reshaping worn teeth.

Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. They have been used in dentistry for over a century and are known for their strength and durability, making them an ideal choice for fillings in the back teeth (molars), where chewing forces are strongest.

The Advantages of Amalgam Fillings:

• Durability: Amalgam fillings are extremely strong and long-lasting, often lasting 10-15 years or more.
• Cost-Effective: Amalgam fillings are usually less expensive than composite fillings.
• Resistance: They are resistant to wear and are less likely to break under pressure from chewing.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings, or gold inlays/onlays, are custom-made in a dental lab and cemented into place. They are highly durable and can last for many years, but they are also one of the more expensive filling options. 

The Advantages of Gold Fillings:

• Durability: Gold fillings are exceptionally strong and resistant to wear, often lasting decades.
• Biocompatibility: Gold is well-tolerated by gum tissues, and there is minimal risk of allergic reactions.

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings, often made from porcelain, are highly durable and aesthetically pleasing. They are typically used for larger restorations, such as inlays, onlays, or crowns, and are designed to match the color of your teeth. 

The Advantages of Ceramic Fillings:

• Aesthetics: Ceramic fillings provide a very natural look and are stain-resistant.
• Durability: Porcelain fillings are strong and can last for many years with proper care.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are made from a combination of acrylic and glass powder. They release fluoride over time, which can help protect the tooth from further decay. These fillings are typically used for cavities below the gum line or for temporary fillings in baby teeth.

The Advantages of Glass Ionomer Fillings:

• Fluoride Release: The fluoride released from the filling helps protect the tooth from future decay.
• Cost: Glass ionomer fillings are relatively inexpensive compared to composite or ceramic options. Call us to learn more.

The Dental Filling Procedure at Fives Pines Dental

Getting a dental filling is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. Here's what you can expect when you come to Fives Pines Dental for a filling:

Examination and Diagnosis

During your initial visit, Dr. Zeller will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and may take X-rays to assess the extent of the decay or damage. If a cavity is detected, Dr. Zeller will discuss the best treatment options with you, including which type of filling material is most appropriate for your case.

Anesthesia

Before the filling procedure begins, Dr. Zeller will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain during the treatment. If you have dental anxiety, Dr. Zeller can also discuss sedation options to make you more comfortable.

Removing the Decay

Once the area is numb, Dr. Zeller will remove the decayed portion of the tooth using specialized dental instruments. The affected area will be cleaned thoroughly to remove any remaining bacteria or debris. 

Filling the Cavity

After cleaning the tooth, Dr. Zeller will carefully place the filling material into the prepared cavity. The material will be shaped and smoothed to match the natural contours of your tooth. In the case of composite fillings, the material will be applied in layers, and each layer will be cured (hardened) with a special light.

Finishing Touches

Once the filling is in place, Dr. Zeller will check your bite to ensure that the filled tooth aligns properly with the opposing teeth. The filling will be polished to ensure a smooth and natural finish.

Aftercare for Dental Fillings

Caring for your teeth after getting a filling is essential to maintaining the health and longevity of the restoration. Here are some tips for ensuring your new filling lasts:

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

Immediately after the procedure, avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the side of the filled tooth, as this can dislodge or damage the new filling.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Pay special attention to the area around the filling to prevent further decay.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Visit Fives Pines Dental for regular check-ups so that Dr. Zeller can monitor the condition of your fillings and other dental work.

Address Sensitivity

It's normal to experience some sensitivity after a filling, but if it persists for more than a few days, contact Dr. Zeller. He can evaluate the filling to ensure it's properly placed.

Conclusion

Dental fillings are a vital tool in modern dentistry, helping to restore and protect teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury. At Fives Pines Dental in Portland, OR, Dr. Richard Zeller offers high-quality dental fillings that are designed to restore your tooth's function, prevent further damage, and maintain the beauty of your smile.

If you suspect you have a cavity or need a filling replaced, don't hesitate to contact Fives Pines Dental to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide compassionate, expert care tailored to your needs.

Experience exceptional dental care with Dr. Richard Zeller at Fives Pines Dental! Call us today at (503) 482-2160 to schedule your appointment and discover how our personalized approach can enhance your smile. Visit us at 555 SW Oak Street, Suite A, Portland, OR 97204, where your dental health is our top priority.