Get Dental Fillings Today
You have most likely had a cavity at some point in your life that required a dental filling. Dental fillings are a common general dentistry treatment. A tooth filling is a routine dental treatment that dentists use to address either tooth decay or minor tooth damage. The procedure helps preserve the natural tooth structure and prevent the cavity from getting larger.
Our dentists can help you lower the risk of tooth loss by repairing decay and preventing further infections. Replacing missing teeth should be your last resort, so don’t wait to fill a tooth cavity until the last minute.
Tooth decay is a common dental issue in children and teens, but it can affect people of all ages. A tooth cavity is usually a result of plaque buildup. Good oral hygiene and routine dental care are the keys to minimizing your risk of tooth decay. Maintaining your oral health will minimize your risk of getting cavities and provide the foundation for lifelong dental health.
Our team will evaluate your oral health and screen for tooth decay at every routine dental visit. We will also check your existing fillings during routine dental visits to ensure their integrity and prevent future decay. Treating your tooth decay as soon as possible is key.
When your dentist spots decay in the early stages, a tooth filling is the best treatment option. If left untreated, a cavity can actually get worse and even need a root canal or extraction.
White Tooth Fillings: Composite Resin
Bella Smiles recommends using composite resin, or “white fillings” for a safe, metal-free, and natural looking result. They are highly durable, and decay and stain-resistant. White cosmetic fillings blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, creating a more natural smile.
White fillings are not noticeable at all. They usually last around 10 years, but resin fillings may not be ideal for large cavities because they may chip or wear over time. Patients with metal silver fillings can have their dentist replace their existing fillings with tooth-colored restorations.
Dental Fillings: What to Expect
A tooth filling procedure is a routine dental treatment. Your dentist can typically complete it in a single visit to our Riverhead, Nesconset, or Roslyn dental offices. We will use a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Many patients become slightly anxious at the thought of a dental filling. However, it’s a relatively simple procedure that should produce minimal discomfort.
Your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing all the decay and cleaning the area. Then they will place the filling compound and shape it before curing it. We will create a natural looking and comfortable surface for normal chewing and speaking.
If you are receiving a composite filling, your dentist will use a special blue light to cure the material. Once complete, we will polish the surface of the filling and make any minor adjustments. We will check your natural bite before you leave. A dental filling should last for many years with good routine dental care.
Dental Fillings FAQs
How many cavities can a dentist fill at once?
Most dentists will not perform more than 4 fillings in one sitting. Technically, there is no limit to the number of fillings you can get at the dentist. A dentist can fill as many cavities as necessary in one appointment or over multiple appointments.
This will depend on the patient’s oral health, the severity and number of the cavities, and the dentist’s recommendation. However, we do not recommend getting more than four at one time.
A tooth can have more than one filling, depending on how severe the decay is. However, dentists recommend to avoid excessive fillings in a single tooth. Too many can weaken the tooth structure and increase the risk of damage or decay. Maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend dental check-ups to prevent the need for many fillings on a single tooth.
Do fillings stay in your mouth forever?
Fillings last a long time, but they don’t last forever. Gold fillings have the longest lifespan of up to 30 years, and silver amalgam fillings can last up to 15. Many people think that once a dentist places a filling it will not need a replacement, but this is false.
Scheduling regular visits to your dentist will ensure that your fillings are in good shape. Your dentist will know when to replace them when the time comes.
How long do white fillings last?
White fillings and composite resin fillings typically last between 7 to 10 years. Factors like the size and location of the fillings and your oral hygiene habits will have an affect on their lifespan. Most patients who choose tooth-colored fillings make this decision for cosmetic reasons, rather than function or lifespan reasons.