218 Wall St, Powdersville, SC 29673

Tooth Fillings

Fillings: Repair Cavities with Ease

What Are Fillings?

Fillings restore teeth damaged by cavities, filling the decayed area with materials like tooth-colored composite resin or durable amalgam. They prevent further decay, restore function, and maintain your tooth’s strength and appearance

Why It Matters

Cavities weaken teeth, causing pain or sensitivity and risking deeper damage if untreated. Fillings stop decay in its tracks, saving the tooth from needing more invasive treatments like root canals or crowns. Composite fillings blend naturally, while amalgam is ideal for back teeth, ensuring both function and aesthetics.

When Might You Need It?

You may need a filling if:
  • You feel sensitivity, pain, or discomfort when eating or drinking, especially with hot, cold, or sweet foods.
  • A routine exam reveals a cavity, often shown as a dark spot on X-rays.
  • You notice visible dark spots, rough surfaces, or small holes in your teeth
  • An existing filling is worn, cracked, or failing, allowing decay to progress.
  • Lingering sensitivity or discomfort suggests a cavity needs attention to avoid complications.
  • We’ll confirm the cavity’s extent and recommend the best material during a consultation.

    What to Expect

    The filling procedure is quick and comfortable:
  • Assessment: Dr. Patel examines the tooth and numbs the area with local anesthesia.
  • Decay Removal: The decayed portion is removed using gentle tools, and the cavity is cleaned to eliminate bacteria.
  • Filling Placement:
  • Composite: Tooth-colored resin is applied in layers, shaped to match your tooth, and hardened with a curing light for a natural look.
  • Finishing: The filling is polished and adjusted for comfort, taking 30-60 minutes per tooth.
  • We’ll provide care instructions to protect your new filling.

    composite dental fillings | tooth fillings near you Composite (Tooth-Colored) Restoration

    A composite restoration uses a tooth-colored resin to repair cavities, chips, or cracks while blending naturally with your smile.

    What Happens:
  • Numbing: We numb the area to keep you comfortable.
  • Cleaning: Decay is removed and the tooth is cleaned.
  • Bonding & Layering: A bonding agent is applied, then the resin is placed in layers and shaped to match your tooth.
  • Curing: A special light hardens the material.
  • Polishing: The filling is smoothed and polished for a natural look and feel.
  • Benefits:
  • Tooth-colored and invisible in your smile
  • Bonds directly to tooth structure for added strength
  • Preserves more natural tooth compared to silver (amalgam) fillings
  • Ideal for small to moderate restorations in both front and back teeth
  • Recovery Tips

    Recovery is minimal, with these guidelines:

    • Sensitivity: Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure may last 1-2 days; use desensitizing toothpaste if needed.
    • Diet: Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods (e.g., caramels, ice) on the filled tooth for a week to let the material set.
    • Hygiene: Brush gently twice daily and floss to prevent plaque around the filling.
    • Longevity: Fillings last 5-15 years with proper care; regular checkups catch any wear early.
    • Contact Us: Reach out if pain persists, the filling feels rough, or your bite feels off, as adjustments may be needed.
    • Your filling will keep your tooth strong and your smile bright.