Fillings in Marietta & Decatur
When treating cavities, Dr. Patel uses quality, resin materials to restore your teeth to optimal health and function. Healthier than amalgam fillings, the resin/composite fillings are not associated with mercury toxin issues and filling shrinkage like metal fillings of the past. Ultra-violet light is used to cure or harden these tooth-colored composite fillings.
Smaller cavities may only require a resin bond. When cavities take up a large area of the tooth, other measures may be necessary. In order to provide more strength to the tooth, Dr. Patel may elect to restore the damaged portions of your teeth with a porcelain inlay/onlay, which is usually made in the office in just one visit. Onlays offer a more conservative treatment over a full coverage crown thereby saving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Dr. Patel will always discuss options for treatment with you.
request an appointmentFAQs
What types of dental fillings do you offer?
We offer both amalgam (silver) and composite (tooth-colored) fillings, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your needs.
How long do dental fillings typically last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on various factors, but they can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care.
Dental Filling Procedure at Cobb Center for Advanced Dentistry
Fillings in Marietta & Decatur procedure is used to repair minor fractures or decay in the teeth, serving as a form of restorative dental treatment. It helps even out the tooth’s surface and improves the jaw’s function for biting and chewing. Additionally, it significantly reduces tooth sensitivity caused by enamel loss.
Consultation and Planning
The first step in the Fillings in Marietta & Decatur procedure is a thorough inspection of the teeth to determine the best course of action. Dental fillings are ideal for minor fractures and decay. In more severe cases, other restorative treatments, such as crowns or implants, may be necessary.
Your dentist will examine your teeth using a dental probe and caries-detecting liquid to identify problematic areas. X-rays may also be used to gather precise information about the decay’s location and severity.
Several materials can be used for dental fillings, including direct composite bonding, porcelain, glass ionomer, silver amalgam, and gold inlays. The choice of material depends on factors such as the cavity’s location, the patient’s medical history, aesthetic needs, financial considerations, and personal preference.
The Procedure
- Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure.
- Preparation: The decayed or damaged part of the tooth and its surrounding areas are prepared for restoration. This involves using a dental handpiece or laser to remove the damaged tooth portions. An acid gel is used to cleanse the area, eliminating any remaining bacteria or debris.
- Filling Application: The filling material is applied to the prepared cavity. For composite fillings, the affected tooth must be isolated to prevent moisture interference during the bonding process. Various adhesives are applied before the composite material, which is then hardened using a special bonding light.
- Polishing: The finished tooth is polished to conclude the procedure.
Follow-Up
After the dental filling procedure, the dentist will discuss methods to prevent decay from forming underneath or near the filling and in other teeth. Patients are advised to follow good oral care practices, including:
- Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily.
- Flossing and using an interdental cleaner daily.
- Using fluoride mouth rinses for those at high risk of decay.
Some patients might benefit from sealants placed over the molars to prevent plaque buildup and decay. Follow-up appointments may be required to monitor the filling’s progress and for regular professional cleanings.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Cobb Center for Advanced Dentistry. We’re here to help you maintain your oral health and achieve a bright, healthy smile.
Dr. Patel is a member of the:
The Georgia Association of Dentists
The Academy of General Dentistry
The Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation