8221 Glades Road, Suite 4, Boca Raton, FL 33434
Repair Cavities and Protect Your Smile
A dental filling is a dental material used to repair the look and function of a tooth that has been damaged by tooth decay. It is one of the most common and effective treatments in dentistry, allowing us to stop decay before it causes serious harm. At Glades Dental Group in Boca Raton, we use modern, natural-looking fillings to restore damaged teeth and keep your smile healthy for the long term.
You may be wondering why a treatment called a filling involves drilling a hole. The answer is that fillings are not like bandages. We cannot simply cover up the damage and expect the tooth to heal on its own. Unlike nearly every other part of your body, teeth cannot repair themselves once they are damaged or infected. To restore your tooth properly, we first have to remove the decay, which is what the drill is used for. While this temporarily makes the cavity a little larger, it is far better than leaving behind decay that could damage your tooth even more over time. Removing the decay completely is the key to a lasting, healthy repair.
Schedule a Filling Appointment
What Is a Dental Filling?
Fillings are used to fill cavities, the small holes caused by bacterial acids that have eaten through your tooth. If left untreated, cavities continue to expand, carving deeper into the tooth and eventually destroying it. A filling halts the decay process, saving your tooth and preventing greater cost and discomfort in the future. By sealing off the area where decay has been removed, a filling restores the strength and structure of your tooth so it can function normally again.
Catching and treating cavities early is one of the simplest ways to protect your long-term oral health, which is why regular checkups at Glades Dental Group are so important. The sooner a cavity is found, the smaller and simpler the filling tends to be.
Exploring Your Filling Material Options
Several types of materials can be used for fillings, and the right choice depends on the condition of your tooth, how you want it to look, and your budget. Our dentists always aim to select the option that best restores both the appearance and function of your tooth.
The most common filling materials are gold, amalgam (silver), composite resin (a durable plastic), and porcelain. Metal fillings are often used on the back teeth, or molars, because they do not show when you smile. However, many patients prefer a tooth-colored, metal-free option regardless of where the filling will be placed.
At Glades Dental Group, we prefer to use modern, advanced tooth-colored fillings made from durable composite resin or porcelain. These natural-looking fillings are ideal for the front teeth, where appearance matters most, and they can be used on the back teeth as well, depending on the location and extent of the decay. Ultimately, the decision on which material to use will be the result of an informed discussion between you and our dentist, so you can feel confident in your treatment.
What to Expect During Your Filling Procedure
The dental filling procedure is a routine and relatively simple treatment that our team performs with your comfort in mind. Here is what you can expect:
Numbing the Area
We begin by applying a local anesthetic to numb the area, if necessary. Numbing may not be needed for very small fillings, but you are always welcome to ask about it if you have any concerns about discomfort.
01
Removing the Decay
The dentist carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth using a drill.
02
Preparing the Tooth
Once the decay is removed, the dentist may shape the tooth slightly so the filling fits properly. An acid gel may also be applied to etch the inner surfaces, helping the filling bond more securely.
03
Placing and Setting the Filling
The filling material is placed into the prepared space. If a resin material is used, the dentist may apply a special bright light to harden it.
04
Polishing the Tooth
As a final step, we polish the tooth so it is smooth and shiny, blending in naturally with the rest of your smile.
05
Who Needs a Dental Filling?
A dental filling may be right for you if you:
- Have a cavity or small hole caused by tooth decay
- Experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Notice a visible pit, dark spot, or hole in a tooth
- Have a small area of tooth damage that needs repair
- Have been told during a checkup that you have early decay
Many cavities cause no symptoms at all in their early stages, which is why routine exams are so valuable. During your visit, our dentists will let you know if a filling is needed and discuss the best material for your tooth.
Restore Your Tooth With a Dental Filling in Boca Raton
If you have a cavity or suspect you may need a filling, do not wait for the problem to grow. A dental filling from Glades Dental Group is a quick, comfortable way to stop decay and protect your tooth. Call us today at 561-883-2786 or request an appointment online to schedule your visit.
Book Your Appointment Today
