Fillings Specialist

What are fillings?

A filling is a dental restoration that repairs minor damage to your tooth enamel. If you crack or chip a tooth or develop a minor cavity, a filling can reduce the risk of additional complications and rehabilitate your smile. 

Fillings are safe, well-tolerated, and present few risks. Once placed, they typically last 5-7 years* and sometimes even longer.

What are fillings made of?

At Los Gatos Dental, the team offers fillings made of:

• Gold 
• Porcelain
• Amalgam (a mix of various materials)
• Tooth-colored 

The type of filling that will most benefit you depends on various factors, including your dental insurance, the extent of the damage or decay, and your oral health history. After an oral exam and a series of dental X-rays, your provider can make recommendations that align with your needs.

What does getting a dental filling involve?

At Los Gatos Dental, getting a dental filling is an outpatient procedure that typically takes less than an hour. 

Before recommending a filling, your dentist asks about your symptoms and conducts an oral exam. They also take oral X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or decay.

If your provider determines a filling can repair your tooth, they numb your mouth and carefully remove the decaying or damaged portion of the enamel. Next, your provider eliminates harmful bacteria and debris from the area using an antiseptic solution.

Lastly, your dentist applies the filling material in layers. After applying each layer, they point a light at your tooth, causing the material to cure and dry. Your dentist removes any excess material, polishes the tooth, and provides at-home care instructions.

How do I care for my dental fillings?

To prevent damage to your dental fillings, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene. The team at Los Gatos Dental recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for professional teeth cleaning and an oral exam. In addition, it’s important to avoid bad habits, like biting your fingernails, to prevent damage to the filling.

Is getting a filling painful?

Getting a filling is a quick and pain-free process. In the first few days after getting a new filling, it’s normal to experience increased tooth sensitivity. That said, if your symptoms persist and don’t respond to at-home treatment like ice or anti-inflammatory medication, contact the team at Los Gatos Dental.

If you suspect you have a cavity, request a fillings consultation at Los Gatos Dental by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.

*Individual results may vary.