Dental Fillings in Norwalk

Dental fillings are a common procedure used to treat cavities or tooth decay. Fillings are used in order to prevent minor decay from rapidly spreading bacteria into the tooth’s pulp – where it then must be treated with a procedure known as a root canal.

You Have Options

At Dental Care of Norwalk, you have a choice in the type of dental filling you want. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, but they all accomplish the same goal: preventing further decay from occurring.

What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a way to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay. Once the decay has been removed and the filling has been placed, the tooth will regain it’s normal function and shape. There are a variety of types of fillings, and having an exam will determine which type is best suited for your needs.

The Types of Fillings We Offer

Silver – These are one of the oldest options, but they are highly durable, often lasting a lifetime for some patients. However, controversy has risen due to their mercury content – though it’s a very low amount. We do not typically recommend silver fillings. They also do not match the color of your teeth.

Tooth-colored Composites – Made up of composite resin, this type of filling is a great choice if you want a filling that matches the same shade as your teeth for concealment. They also chemically bond to the tooth for added support, however they lack the durability of other options – usually having to be replaced every 10-15 years.

The Procedure

The procedure is often quick, ranging no more than an hour to complete. Composite resin fillings generally take a little longer than other options, but they come with their own set of benefits.

Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area so that you are comfortable throughout. The process will begin with the dentist or hygienist placing a rubber dam in your mouth to keep it dry and free of bacteria.

Next, the dentist will used a specialized instrument to drill a small hole in the tooth in order to remove the decay from the tooth. Once the decay has been removed the tooth is cleaned and filled with a special composite material which will prevent the tooth from getting any further decay. The material is then hardened with a special curing light and the tooth will be restored.

Discuss Your Options With Our Dentist

We will gladly help you decide what filling is recommended based on your needs and budget. For more information on dental fillings, please call our office at 562-863-5701.