Despite popular belief, a cavity doesn’t mean the end of your tooth or a noticeable metal restoration for the rest of your life. Restorative dentistry offers solutions to mend damaged teeth and bring back their function and appearance. Dental fillings are one of the most effective ways to treat decay before it causes more damage.
At Alta Dental Group, we provide high-quality fillings to help you sustain healthy teeth and prevent more serious problems. Whether you need a small filling to address early decay or a more extensive restoration to repair significant damage, we customize our approach to your specific needs. Our team uses modern materials and techniques to ensure your filling blends naturally with your smile while protecting your tooth for years to come. We also prioritize your comfort throughout the process, explaining each stage and addressing any concerns you may have about the procedure.
Dental fillings restore teeth damaged by decay. When bacteria in your mouth secrete acids that wear away tooth enamel, small holes called cavities form. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 90% of adults have had at least one cavity in their permanent teeth. Left untreated, these cavities grow larger and can reach the inner areas of your tooth, causing pain and infection.
A filling repairs this damage by extracting the decayed section of the tooth and filling the space with a durable material. This process halts the progression of decay and restores tooth strength. The filling also seals out bacteria, preventing future decay in that area. For decay that is too severe to be treated with a filling, we may recommend a dental crown to provide additional stability and support for your damaged tooth.
We offer several filling materials, each with distinct advantages:
The best filling material depends on several factors. Location matters because front teeth benefit from tooth-colored materials, while back teeth may need the extra strength of amalgam. Cavity size influences the choice, as larger cavities often require more durable materials.
Your budget also plays a role. Amalgam fillings typically cost less than composite or ceramic options. Some patients prefer to avoid certain materials based on personal preferences or sensitivities.
We discuss all these factors with you before recommending a filling type. Your comfort and the long-term health of your tooth guide our suggestions.
Getting a filling typically takes one appointment. We begin by numbing the area around your tooth to ensure you are at ease throughout the procedure. Once the anesthesia takes effect, we remove the decayed segment of the tooth using specialized instruments.
After thoroughly cleaning the cavity, we prepare the space for the filling material. For composite fillings, we apply the material in layers and use a special light to harden each layer. Amalgam fillings are placed differently, packed into the prepared space, and shaped to fit your bite.
The final step involves adjusting the filling so it feels natural when you bite down. We check your bite multiple times and smooth any rough edges. The entire procedure should take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the filling’s size and location.
Your new filling needs proper care to last as long as possible. Brush twice daily and floss once a day to prevent new decay around the filling. Regular dental cleanings help us monitor your fillings and catch any problems early.
Avoid chewing on hard items like pens and ice, which can crack or dislodge fillings. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a night guard to protect both your fillings and natural teeth.
Most fillings last 5 to 15 years, though this varies by material, location, and how well you care for them. We check your fillings at each visit and let you know if replacement becomes necessary.
Dr. Rashad Altawaty and Dr. Omar Bajawa bring modern restorative techniques to every filling procedure at our Irvine practice. With advanced training in restorative dentistry and a commitment to staying current with the latest materials and methods, our team delivers fillings that look natural and last. We understand that dental appointments can feel stressful, so we create a welcoming environment where you can ask questions freely and receive clear explanations about your treatment options. Our modern facility houses the latest dental technology, allowing us to provide precise, efficient care that minimizes your time in the chair while maximizing your results.
Your tooth deserves effective, lasting care that protects your oral health and preserves your smile. We work with most PPO insurance plans and offer flexible financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, SunBit, and Proceed to make quality dental care accessible. Same-day appointments may be available for dental emergencies. Schedule an appointment with Alta Dental Group to discuss how dental fillings can restore your oral health and help you rebuild confidence in your smile.
Address
2500 Alton Parkway Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92606, US
Business Hours
Monday - Sunday Appointments only
Please call our office (1-619-216-2807) or email us for appointments (CV@altadentalgroup.com) with your contact info: name, phone, email
