Dental Fillings
Dental Fillings Services Offered in Graham, WA
Dental fillings are a cornerstone of restorative dentistry, offering a reliable solution for treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth. At Frontier Family Dental, we understand that a healthy smile is essential for your overall well-being and confidence.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing top-quality dental filling services that address your unique needs and ensure long-lasting results.
After removing the decayed portions of a tooth, your dentist places a filling to repair the damage. At Frontier Family Dental in Graham, Washington, Seung Jae (David) Joung, DMD, provides several different types of fillings to meet your needs and restore your oral health. Call Frontier Family Dental or schedule your next examination online today.
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Understanding Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are designed to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or minor fractures. This common dental procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the area with a durable material.
The result is a restored tooth that functions normally and looks natural. Modern dental fillings not only prevent further decay but also strengthen the tooth structure, helping you maintain optimal oral health.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Our Dental Filling Process
- Comprehensive Oral Examination
- Personalized Filling Selection
- Precise Cavity Preparation and Filling
- Post-Filling Care Instructions
- Complimentary Follow-Up Assessment
Comprehensive Oral Examination
Your dental filling journey begins with a thorough examination of your teeth. We use advanced diagnostic tools to assess the extent of decay or damage. Our dentists at Frontier Family Dental will explain their findings, discuss your treatment options, and address any concerns you may have about the dental filling procedure.
Personalized Filling Selection
Based on the assessment, we’ll create a tailored treatment plan that outlines the ideal filling material for your case. We consider factors such as the location of the tooth, the extent of decay, and your personal preferences to ensure the best possible outcome for your dental health and appearance.
Precise Cavity Preparation and Filling
During the procedure, we prioritize your comfort by applying a local anesthetic. Our skilled dentists then carefully remove the decayed portion of your tooth and meticulously clean the area. The chosen filling material is applied with precision, expertly shaped to match your tooth’s natural contours, and hardened using specialized equipment.
Post-Filling Care Instructions
After your dental filling, we provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. This includes guidance on which foods to avoid temporarily and how to maintain optimal oral hygiene. We also offer valuable tips on caring for your new filling to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.
Complimentary Follow-Up Assessment
We schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your dental filling and confirm it’s functioning as intended. This gives you an opportunity to address any questions or concerns that may have arisen since your treatment. At Frontier Family Dental, our commitment to your oral health extends well beyond the initial procedure.
Why Choose Us for Dental Fillings
At Frontier Family Dental, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional dental care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques, ensuring you receive the most effective and comfortable treatment possible. We use high-quality materials for our dental fillings, prioritizing both durability and aesthetics.
Our patient-centered approach means we take the time to listen to your concerns and explain every step of the process. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge, allowing you to make informed decisions about your oral health. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, you can trust that your smile is in capable hands.
Smile Confidently with Frontier Family Dental
Your smile deserves the best care possible. At Frontier Family Dental, we’re not just filling cavities; we’re restoring your confidence and protecting your oral health.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your personalized dental filling consultation today. Call us or book online through our website. Let’s work together to keep your smile bright, healthy, and strong for years to come!
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FAQs About Dental Fillings
What are fillings?
Fillings are a restorative dental treatment for cavities. They’re very common, and it’s likely you’ll need at least one at some point in your life, especially if you’re prone to cavities. You can get gold fillings or fillings in materials that match the color of your teeth, like porcelain or composite.
At Frontier Family Dental, your dentist discusses your filling options and can help you decide which material is best for you. Frontier Family Dental provides two different filling types:
- Direct fillings – Direct fillings take place in a single visit. Your dentist places the filling into a prepared cavity and makes final adjustments before you leave. These include glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and composite (resin) fillings).
- Indirect fillings – Indirect fillings are tailored to the shape and size of your cavity, and they take longer than direct fillings. During the first visit, your dentist prepares your tooth and makes an impression. They then create your solid filling, called an inlay or onlay, and place it during your second visit. These fillings include gold, base metal alloys, and ceramics.
When do I need a filling?
When you visit Frontier Family Dental for a cleaning and exam, your dentist might find a cavity. However, if it’s been a while since your last exam, you might develop a cavity that eventually causes symptoms. Book an appointment right away with Frontier Family Dental if you experience:
- Visible holes in your teeth
- Toothache or pain
- Tooth sensitivity
- Black, brown, or white tooth staining
Your dentist checks your mouth and can determine if symptoms like these are from a cavity. They can then treat the cavity with a filling in the material of your choice.
How should I care for my fillings after treatment?
Taking care of your teeth helps you avoid needing additional fillings in the future. Plus, you can keep both the filling and the tooth strong and healthy. Following a filling at Frontier Family Dental, aftercare includes:
- Brushing twice daily
- Using a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing once a day
- Eating a balanced diet with limited sugar
- Getting routine dental exams and cleanings
You also need to be mindful of practices that could damage or dislodge a filling. You should avoid biting down on solid objects like hard candies and fingernails and never use your teeth in place of scissors.
Schedule your next exam over the phone or online at Frontier Family Dental to find out if you need a filling today.
How long after a dental filling can I eat?
You can typically eat right after getting a dental filling, but it’s best to wait until the anesthetic wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. For composite fillings, which are fully hardened before you leave the office, you can eat normally. However, it’s advisable to avoid very hot or cold foods for the first few hours to minimize sensitivity.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of dental fillings varies depending on the material used and your oral hygiene habits. On average, amalgam (silver) fillings can last 10-15 years, while composite (tooth-colored) fillings typically last 5-10 years. With proper care, including regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene, some fillings can last even longer.
What does a dental filling look like?
Modern dental fillings, especially composite resin fillings, are designed to match the color of your natural teeth. Once in place, a well-done filling should be virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your tooth. Amalgam fillings are silver in color and are more noticeable, but are still used in some cases due to their durability.
What is in composite dental fillings?
Composite dental fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. This resin material is designed to be durable and match the color of your natural teeth. The composite is applied in layers and hardened with a special light, creating a strong bond with your tooth structure. This material is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also metal-free and mercury-free.
Do dental fillings hurt?
The dental filling procedure itself should not be painful, as we use local anesthesia to numb the area before treatment. You may feel some pressure during the filling process, but it shouldn’t be uncomfortable. After the anesthesia wears off, you might experience some sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days, but this is typically mild and subsides quickly.
