Dental Fillings

A dental filling is a type of restorative dentistry treatment used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. A dental filling is necessary when tooth decay reaches the outer layer of a tooth, the enamel. The decay is removed, and the tooth is “filled” with a material such as composite resin or dental amalgam. During the procedure, at Odyssey Dental in Peoria, AZ, our dentist in Peoria, AZ will remove the decayed portion of the tooth, clean the tooth, and then fill the void with a dental filling material.

Types of Dental Fillings

Silver Amalgam Fillings

Silver amalgam fillings have been used for decades and have a long record of safety and effectiveness. Silver amalgam fillings can last for over 20 years. They are resistant to wear and can last for many more years with proper care and oral hygiene.

Silver amalgam fillings are commonly placed in back teeth where chewing forces are the strongest. Silver amalgam fillings are very strong and can withstand years of chewing.

Gold Fillings

Gold was one of the first materials used to make fillings, and it remains one of the most popular. Unlike metal, gold is strong enough to be resistant to wear and corrosion, which means a gold filling can last for many years, sometimes even decades. Gold is also well tolerated by the gum, so it doesn’t irritate. Gold fillings can also be very aesthetically pleasing.

Composite Resin Fillings

A composite resin filling is a type of dental filling used to restore a decayed or damaged tooth. Composite resin fillings are made of plastic resin and glass, and they look just like your natural teeth.

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings, or dental veneers, are custom-made and shaped to fit the tooth. Porcelain is shaped and shaded to match the look of your natural teeth.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are tooth-colored and made of acrylic resin and glass ionomer. This type of filling is used to treat cavities or minor tooth damage.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Dental fillings prevent tooth sensitivity by filling in a hole in your tooth’s enamel. Enamel protects the sensitive inner layers of your teeth, so, once the dentin is exposed, you experience tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is a very common dental problem. It can lead to pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and beverages. 

Restoring Tooth Structure

Cavities don’t just damage the appearance of your smile, they also expose your teeth to bacteria and infection. A dental filling helps seal out cavity-causing bacteria, while also restoring the shape and function of your smile.

Repairing Fractured Teeth

A dental filling is a restorative treatment that repairs a tooth that is cracked, chipped, or fractured. A filling also restores a tooth that has decayed. A filling is bonded to your tooth and restores it to its original shape and size.

Filling Cavities

When a cavity forms, it is important to fill it as soon as possible. Otherwise, it could worsen, and you might need a dental crown instead of a filling. Dental fillings restore a tooth to its normal shape and size.

For the best dental treatment visit Odyssey Dental at 8256 W. Cactus Road, Suite #136 Peoria, AZ 85381, or call (623) 734-4561 to schedule an appointment.