What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling repairs damage caused by tooth decay and restores the tooth to its natural shape and function. The procedure involves:

• Carefully removing decayed tooth material
  
  
• Thoroughly cleaning the affected area
  
  
• Filling the space with a durable material such as composite resin, porcelain, or silver amalgam
  
  

By sealing off vulnerable areas, fillings also help prevent future decay. For patients with larger areas of damage, we may recommend a dental crown to ensure complete protection.

Our Dental Filling Procedure

When you visit Foundation Dental for a filling, your care will include:

• Step 1: Numbing the Area – Local anesthesia ensures your comfort throughout the procedure.
  
  
• Step 2: Removal of Decay – We gently remove the decayed portion of the tooth, preserving as much healthy structure as possible.
  
  
• Step 3: Cleaning the Cavity – The cavity is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate bacteria and debris.
  
  
• Step 4: Filling Placement – The selected material is placed, shaped, and polished for a seamless, natural appearance.
  
  

If decay is extensive or the tooth nerve is compromised, additional treatments like root canal therapy may be necessary before filling placement.

Types of Fillings We Offer

Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings

Composite resin fillings blend perfectly with your natural teeth, making them ideal for visible areas like the front teeth. They bond directly to your enamel and offer a durable, attractive result. Composites are especially popular for patients choosing aesthetic treatments such as cosmetic dentistry.

Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

Silver amalgam fillings are highly durable and cost-effective. Though they are more noticeable than composites, they are excellent for molars and areas subjected to heavy chewing forces.

Porcelain Fillings (Inlays and Onlays)

Custom-made porcelain restorations provide superior strength and stain resistance. Porcelain fillings are often used when a large part of the tooth structure needs restoration and can sometimes be an alternative to full crowns.

For some cases involving extensive damage, we may recommend same-day CEREC crowns to ensure full coverage and protection.

How to Know If You Need a Filling

Common signs you may need a dental filling include:

• Toothache or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
  
  
• Visible holes or dark spots on the teeth
  
  
• Pain when biting down
  
  
• A broken or chipped tooth
  
  

At Foundation Dental, we use advanced digital imaging to detect even the smallest cavities before they cause larger problems.

Why Choose Foundation Dental for Dental Fillings?

• Experienced Care: Dr. Elise Daggs brings more than 30 years of expertise in restorative dentistry.
  
  
• Advanced Materials: We offer a range of modern filling options to suit your health, aesthetic, and budgetary needs.
  
  
• Comfort-Focused Dentistry: Patients who experience anxiety can benefit from our dental anxiety and sedation options for a relaxed, comfortable experience.
  
  
• Convenient Location: Our office serves Phoenix and surrounding areas like Glendale, Peoria, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa.
  
  

Supporting Your Smile After a Dental Filling

To maximize the lifespan of your dental filling:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
  
  
• Floss daily to protect the filled tooth and the surrounding teeth
  
  
• Visit us regularly for exams and cleanings every six months
  
  
• Avoid biting hard objects like ice or hard candies
  
  

With proper care, your filling can protect your smile for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a dental filling last?

The lifespan of a filling depends on the material and oral hygiene practices. Composite fillings typically last 5–7 years, while amalgam and porcelain options can last 10 years or longer with proper care.

Are fillings painful to get?

Receiving a filling is generally not painful. Local anesthesia ensures you remain comfortable, and our gentle techniques minimize sensitivity after the procedure.

What are the five types of fillings?

The five common types of fillings are composite resin, amalgam (silver), porcelain, gold, and glass ionomer. At Foundation Dental, we primarily offer composite, amalgam, and porcelain restorations.

How many times can a filling be replaced?

Fillings can be replaced as needed, but if a tooth undergoes multiple replacements, a crown may eventually be recommended to preserve strength and structure.