Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a common dental procedure used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. A dental filling is a type of restorative treatment. It restores the tooth and can prevent further damage from occurring.

How are fillings placed?

When you visit us for the initial consultation, we will conduct a thorough diagnosis of the oral condition and understand your candidacy for fillings. The dentist will clean out the infected part of the tooth using a dental scaler and wash out the debris using a jet of water.

We will match the color of the tooth and develop a suitable filling material, and then fill the area with a safe material called composite resin. Composite resin is a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium. This material is durable enough to stand up to heavy chewing forces. It is also color-matched to your tooth so that it blends in with your natural smile. Once the shape is confirmed, we will harden it using a curing light and make any necessary changes to ensure you have a proper bite.

Silver vs white fillings

The silver-colored filling material, or amalgam, has been used since the 19th century and is one of the most common types of fillings available today. Amalgam is a safe and durable restorative option that continues to hold strong as an effective treatment option for cavities. Some dental practices offer both silver and white fillings to meet your individual preferences and needs.

White fillings are made of a composite resin that is custom-tinted to match your natural tooth color, making them look more natural and attractive than silver fillings. However, these composite resins may not be placed in areas where chewing pressure will be present. That is why they are often used for smaller restorations in the frontal teeth.

Silver fillings are more commonly used in the back of the mouth, where biting pressure will not be an issue. They are less prone to cracking or breaking over time and are more affordable for patients on a budget. These fillings also tend to be more durable and can last longer than composite resin fillings. Both options have unique advantages to consider when choosing your healthiest smile! Also, be sure to contact our office if you are in need of a cavity-prevention treatment such as a fluoride rinse.

To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice, call (469)-298-3892 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 1901 Northwest Highway, Suite 103, Garland, TX 75041.