Dental Fillings

Dental Fillings in Hampden CO

Dental fillings are a routine procedure that can address several different oral health issues. At our 5-star dental office in Hampden CO, we routinely use a tooth filling in Hampden to correct cavities and discolorations that may otherwise cause health concerns.

What are Dental Fillings?

Fillings help us replace tooth material with synthetic material. Tooth decay will continue to spread if left untreated and can lead to the exposure of the tooth’s root, which is extremely painful and may require complete tooth removal.

By filling in the cavity left behind by tooth decay, we can stop the decay in its tracks. The materials used for our dental fillings in Hampden will also reinforce the structure of the tooth, making it stronger and more resistant to damage.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are plenty of synthetic materials that we can use as tooth fillers. However, the most commonly used ones include:

• Ceramic: This filling is a combination of porcelain, glass, and ceramic particles that is incredibly durable. We don’t usually use ceramic fillings for cavities, but instead will use this material for crowns, veneers, and teeth inlays due to the color of the filling. The result is a durable crown that will last longer than many composite fillings.
• Composite filler: This filling is a combination of resins and color particles that closely resembles the teeth’s natural color. The composite resin is durable and flexible, making it ideal for several different applications, including cavity filling. We often combine composite filler with dental cement to ensure complete binding to the tooth’s surface.
• Amalgam: Despite recent scares about mercury poisoning, amalgam is still considered safe by the American Dental Association. Amalgam has several benefits that make it the best choice for large cavities that occur in the molars. Also, while amalgam contains mercury, it’s not the same form of mercury that causes toxicity and poisoning in humans and animals, making it safe for use as a dental filler.

Who Needs Dental Fillings?

The primary function of dental fillings is to treat tooth decay and the cavities that result from tooth decay. The filling effectively closes the hole in the tooth, preventing bacteria from entering and causing even worse problems.

We also use fillings to repair minor tooth breaks or cracks that may otherwise affect a person’s smile and confidence.

The Process

When you arrive at Hampden Dentistry & Orthodontics for a tooth filling, we’ll first conduct a thorough dental exam to identify the problem and any other potential issues. We’ll then walk you through the process and apply the filling.

In most cases, small fillings only take around 20 minutes to complete. If you have larger or more complex cavities, the process may take longer, though we’ll try to space it apart with multiple visits instead of a grueling hours-long slog.

Dental fillings can last for many years, and with modern materials, can even last a lifetime, so you’ll never have to come back for a redo or second visit.

If you’re concerned about cavities or minor cosmetic issues, give us a call and schedule an appointment today. Our team of experts will provide you with advice, allowing you to make an informed decision about how to proceed. Learn more about our teeth extraction procedure.