Dental Cosmetic Fillings
What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restoration that is specifically used to fill in an area of one or more teeth that have become decayed. Dental decay, known as a cavity, can infiltrate a tooth and cause it to become weak. Over time, the decay essentially eats into the tooth to reach the inner pulp. Before the decay is allowed to get to this point, it's removed and replaced with a tooth-colored composite resin filling.
Why might a Dental Filling be needed?
If you ignore a cavity long enough, the tooth will require a full root canal. This can cause the tooth to become weakened over time. In order to essentially protect the tooth and get rid of the underlying decay, we recommend having a filling placed. Fillings are simple restorations that can be matched to the color of your existing smile.
Who is a candidate for Dental Fillings?
In many cases, you won't know you have a cavity until you come in for an exam. During the exam, we use a special instrument to look for dark areas or soft spots in a tooth. X-rays further help us in identifying these trouble areas. If you have a cavity, it's recommended that it be filled sooner rather than later.
What happens during the Dental Filling process?
We first numb the area of the mouth needing the filling. The decay is removed from the tooth completely. The next step is to prep the tooth for the new composite filling. We do this by applying an etching gel into the small hole, washing it away and then packing the hole with resin. The resin is cured and hardened with a special dental light. We can place multiple fillings in the same area, and we recommend coming in for treatment as soon as it's found that you have a cavity.
If you think you might need a dental filling and want to know more about the procedure, contact our office today and one of our friendly team members will be happy to help.
Explore More Services
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a type of cosmetic procedure that helps to improve the look of minor imperfections and flaws at the front of your smile. Bonding uses composite resin material to cover areas of discoloration, staining, cracks, chips, gaps and spaces.
Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners are a treatment that gently move teeth into place. The trays are worn in a series over time to create a beautiful smile. Clear Aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces, and do not have any brackets or wires.
Dental Crowns
At Confident Smiles, nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, we understand the importance of a radiant smile. Led by esteemed dentists Dr. George Barsa and Dr. Carla Delafuente, our practice specializes in crafting stunning porcelain crowns that not only restore functionality but also achieve the aesthetic brilliance our discerning patients seek.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are ideal for patients who want to protect their teeth and prevent future issues with tooth decay. If you don’t get enough fluoride through the water you’re drinking or the products you’re using, we might recommend that you have additional fluoride treatment applied to your teeth.