Dental Fillings

Cavities are a pain to deal with. They come out of nowhere, are persistent, and if left untreated can cause serious damage. Thankfully, there are treatments available to save a cavity-ridden tooth and restore its natural shape and functionality!

We can correct tooth decay by installing a dental filling. Dental fillings are the best way to repair a tooth eaten away by decay. With this treatment, our doctors and their compassionate team can remove damage and help you feel as good as new.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Over the years, dentists have experimented with a wide variety of materials to use as fillings. At Elite Smiles Dental, we recommend using porcelain, metal amalgam, or resin fillings.

Resin fillings are made of a plastic composite material. They are designed to match the exact color of your teeth. Resin fillings are durable and less noticeable than other materials such as metal. However, they may chip or wear over time, so our doctors may not recommend this option for those needing a large filling.

Porcelain fillings are sometimes known as inlays or onlays. These are custom-created in a lab. Once your filling is ready to be placed, our doctors will attach it to your tooth with a permanent bonding agent. Like resin, porcelain fillings are designed to match the color of your teeth. They are very durable and resist staining – unlike resin.

Metal amalgam is a mixture of metals that is applied like a putty. This material quickly hardens and provides an unmatched level of durability. Because metal amalgam can absorb more pressure, our doctors may recommend this option for those who need a filling at the back of the mouth in a molar.

What Does This Procedure Involve?

Your tooth will need to be cleaned and disinfected before your filling can be placed. To begin, our doctors will apply an anesthetic to the area around your damaged tooth. After this, he will clean away any debris and decayed material. Once your tooth has been cleaned, it will be disinfected to ensure there are no bacteria left inside.

After your tooth is clean, our doctors will install your desired filling. A permanent, bio-friendly adhesive will be applied to keep your filling in place. Depending on the material, your filling will be shaped to look and feel like your natural tooth.

How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Depending on the material and patient’s hygiene, fillings can be expected to last anywhere from five to twelve years.
If you would like to learn more about our dental filling options, please give us a call at 812-232-6654. One of our friendly receptionists would be happy to answer any of your questions or schedule an appointment.