Dental fillings are materials placed inside a tooth to restore its structure and function after decay or damage has been removed. When a cavity forms due to plaque buildup and bacteria on the tooth, it creates a hole that compromises the tooth’s integrity. If left untreated, cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Dental fillings fill in these cavities, supporting the remaining tooth structure and preventing further damage.

This restorative dentistry procedure can also be used to repair minor fractures or cracks in teeth, making them a versatile solution for various dental issues. At Pacific Woods Dental, we offer different types of fillings to meet the unique needs and preferences of our patients.

Types of Dental Fillings in Portland, OR

There are several types of dental fillings, each with distinct advantages and considerations. The type of filling recommended for each patient will depend on factors such as the location and size of the cavity, the patient's aesthetic preferences, and budget. Here’s an overview of the most commonly used filling materials:

Composite Resin Fillings

Composite fillings are a popular choice due to their natural appearance, as they can be color-matched to blend with the surrounding tooth. These fillings are made of a resin-based material mixed with powdered glass and are ideal for treating cavities in visible areas of the mouth, such as the front teeth.

Advantages:

• Matches the color of natural teeth
• Bonds directly to the tooth, providing additional support
• Versatile and can be used for small to moderate cavities

Considerations:

• It may not be as durable as metal fillings for large cavities
• It may require replacement after several years

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings, often referred to as “silver fillings,” are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Known for their durability, amalgam fillings are commonly used for molars and other teeth in the back of the mouth where strength is essential.

Advantages:

• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Ideal for large cavities and areas subject to heavy chewing pressure
• Cost-effective

Considerations:

• Noticeable due to the silver color
• Contains mercury, though studies show amalgam fillings are safe for most patients
• Not suitable for patients with metal allergies

Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings

Ceramic fillings are made from high-quality porcelain, making them both durable and aesthetically pleasing. They are typically used for inlays and onlays, which are larger restorations that cover part of the tooth’s surface.

Advantages:

• Resistant to staining
• Blends well with natural tooth color
• Highly durable, especially for larger cavities

Considerations:

• Higher cost than other filling types
• Requires more time and may involve two visits to place

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings are made from a mixture of acrylic and glass. They are often used in areas that don’t require a lot of chewing pressure, such as around the gumline or in baby teeth.

Advantages:

• Releases fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay
• Bonds well with the tooth

Considerations:

• Less durable than other filling materials
• Typically used for small fillings or areas with minimal chewing

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are less commonly used today, but they offer exceptional durability and can last for several decades. These fillings are custom-made and require two visits to place.

Advantages:

• Extremely durable and long-lasting
• Doesn’t corrode

Considerations:

• Expensive compared to other materials
• Noticeable color that doesn’t match natural teeth

The Dental Filling Procedure at Pacific Woods Dental in Portland, OR

At Pacific Woods Dental, we make every effort to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience during the dental filling procedure. Here’s what patients can expect:

Evaluation and Diagnosis

During your appointment, our skilled dentist in Portland, OR will evaluate the affected tooth to determine the extent of decay. We may take digital X-rays to get a clear view of the tooth and surrounding structures. After the examination, we’ll discuss your options and recommend the most suitable type of filling.

Numbing the Area

To ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure, we’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This step helps minimize any discomfort during the treatment.

Removing the Decay

Using specialized tools, we’ll carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth. This process helps prevent further decay and creates a clean space for the filling material.

Preparing the Tooth for the Filling

Once the decay has been removed, the tooth is prepared for the filling material. For composite fillings, thisinvolves applying a bonding agent to help the filling adhere to the tooth. If you’re receiving an amalgam or ceramic filling, different preparation techniques are used.

Placing and Shaping the Filling

The chosen filling material is applied to the cavity and shaped to restore the tooth’s natural form. For composite fillings, we use a special light to harden and bond the material to the tooth.

Polishing and Final Adjustments

Finally, the filling is polished to smooth out any rough edges and ensure a comfortable bite. We’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the filling fits perfectly and feels natural. Contact us to learn more.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings offer several important benefits for oral health:

• Prevents Further Decay: By filling in the cavity, dental fillings help prevent bacteria from entering and causing further damage.
• Restores Tooth Function: A filling restores the tooth’s structure, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.
• Enhances Aesthetic Appearance: Composite and ceramic fillings blend seamlessly with natural teeth, providing a discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution.
• Strengthens the Tooth: Fillings provide support to weakened tooth structures, reducing the risk of fractures and other issues.

Restore Your Smile with Dental Fillings at Pacific Woods Dental

At Pacific Woods Dental, we’re dedicated to helping our Portland community achieve lasting oral health. Dental fillings are a simple, effective way to restore damaged teeth and prevent future dental issues. Whether you’re dealing with a new cavity or want to replace an older filling, our team is here to provide compassionate, expert care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn how dental fillings can restore your smile and protect your oral health.

To learn more about the dental services at Pacific Woods Dental, call 503-292-5483, and schedule an appointment now!