Tooth decay is an unfortunate dental problem that a majority of us will most likely face at some point in our adult life. They are commonly caused by plaque and tartar buildup. If you do suffer from a toot cavity, preserving the natural tooth will be the main goal.
A dental filling is necessary to restore strength, health and prevent further damage to the tooth.
Dental fillings are placed after your dentist in Baltimore, MD removes the tooth decay, but they can also be used to repair tooth damage such as chips or cracks.
Good oral hygiene and routine dental care are the keys to minimizing your risk of needing a filling to treat decay and can provide the foundation for lifelong dental health.
As one of Baltimore’s leading cosmetic dentists, we only use tooth-colored dental fillings. Our dental fillings are durable, attractive and highly compatible.
While traditional amalgam tooth fillings typically require the removal of healthy tooth structures, composite dental fillings allow your dentist in Baltimore to remove only the decayed area of the tooth.
Composite dental fillings, also known as “white fillings”, bond directly to the tooth and expand like natural teeth, making them and less likely to cause cracks. This tight seal will also prevent bacteria from entering the filling area, threatening the integrity of the tooth.
Inlays and onlays are used to restore a broken tooth or may replace an existing large tooth filling. They are used when the damage is not severe enough to require a dental crown. Inlays and onlays are an excellent alternative to large tooth fillings because they are more durable and natural looking.
Replacing Old Fillings
Dr. Lazer also offers patients the option of replacing old amalgam (silver) fillings with new, natural-looking white fillings. Depending on the size of your existing tooth filling and the condition of the tooth, Dr. Lazer or Dr. Doroshenko may use a composite dental filling or a porcelain inlay or onlay.
Replacing old fillings can not only improve the integrity of your dental health but provide an instant smile makeover!
The dental filling process is relatively simple and completed during a single visit to our Baltimore dentist office. In most cases, a local anesthetic will be administered in the area around the tooth to make you feel comfortable.
Dental Filling FAQs
Why do I need a dental filling?
Dental fillings play an important role in the long-term maintenance of your smile. They are generally used as a cavity filling, to provide protection and stability to teeth affected by decay. A dental filling may also be used to restore teeth after a root canal procedure. Dental fillings may also be used to treat teeth that have small chips or breaks.
Do I need a dental filling, inlay or onlay?
The dentist will complete an evaluation to determine what type of dental filling is right for you. In most cases, a composite dental filling is used for minor tooth decay or other damage. An inlay or onlay is used for more significant tooth decay, to replace large old fillings, and in other cases that don’t warrant a dental crown.
Are dental fillings painful?
Many patients avoid the dentist because they fear their procedure will be painful, expensive, or complicated. Dental fillings, inlays and onlays are relatively simple procedures. Most patients do not experience any pain during the procedure, though some report mild sensitivity. We use VibraJect to minimize or eliminate pain from any injections and quiet electronic hand pieces to reduce your stress during treatment.
How long does it take for tooth fillings to settle?
On average it takes about 24 hours for a filling to completely settle. After 24 hours your filling should have hardened entirely and it should be safe to chew on.
How many fillings can be done at once?
Technically there is no limit to how many fillings can be done at once, however your dentist may recommend splitting up your appointments for fillings if you have extensive dental work needed. This will make your visits shorter and the experience more comfortable.
Schedule An Appointment
If you have old metal dental fillings or suspect you need a tooth filling, contact Cosmetic and Advanced Dentistry at 410.697.6290 to schedule an appointment, or request an appointment online. Dr. Lazer provides tooth fillings in Owings Mills, MD, and surrounding Baltimore County communities.