Cosmetic Fillings
Dental decay can significantly damage the smile, so catching cavities as soon as possible can help reduce the damage that occurs. As with many dental conditions, early detection and diagnosis is key to obtaining effective treatment and avoid future problems. If you are located in the North Aurora, IL area and need dental fillings, we strongly encourage you to think about the benefits of cosmetic fillings.
What is a cosmetic filling?
Drs. Hammad Aziz and Stephanie Janes describe the cosmetic filling as a tooth-colored filling fabricated from composite resin. Composite resin is a material commonly used in dentistry because of its close resemblance to natural tooth enamel. This means that wherever it is placed, it is practically indistinguishable from the natural tooth structure. Composite resin bonding allows patients the chance to disguise areas that require fillings with an aesthetic solution.
A filling is placed into a tooth to fill the area of decay. It not only protects the inner portions of the tooth, but it can restore the tooth to its original form and keep decay from becoming larger, deeper, and more problematic. Any patient who has tooth decay will want to ask about the benefits of placing a dental filling.
Why choose aesthetic tooth fillings?
There are lots of reasons why a patient might consider these tooth-colored restorations. Aesthetic tooth fillings are:
- Effective at restoring areas of decay
- Bonded to the tooth thereby strengthening the overall tooth
- Cosmetic in appearance, often difficult to discern from natural tooth enamel
- Not susceptible to expansion and contraction
- Safe and free from mercury, compared to silver amalgam fillings
How long does it take to receive a filling?
Dental fillings can be done quickly and easily right in the dental chair. Patients might have to schedule a separate appointment from their cleaning and evaluation to have a filling placed.
Call North Aurora Smiles to learn more about cosmetic fillings
If you have areas of decay and require dental fillings, we recommend that you contact our facility to schedule an appointment with Drs. Hammad Aziz and Stephanie Janes. We offer services to patients in North Aurora, IL, and the surrounding communities, including Elburn, Hinckley, Geneva, and Campton Hills. Call (630) 984-2223 to request a visit to the practice, conveniently located at 601 Randall Crossing Lane.
Frequently Asked Questions
A filling is a dental procedure used when a tooth affected by decay needs to be restored to its normal shape and function. If a cavity is detected, the portion of the tooth that has decayed will be removed, and the resulting space will be cleaned before being filled with dental material. Common materials used for fillings include composite resin and porcelain. Fillings help prevent further decay by sealing off the area where bacteria can enter. They are a common and effective solution for treating cavities and maintaining oral health.
The best type of tooth filling depends on the location of the cavity, the size of the filling, and aesthetic considerations. Composite resin fillings are popular for their natural appearance, as they can be matched to the color of your teeth. They are ideal for visible areas like front teeth. Amalgam fillings, made from a mixture of metals, were commonly used for back teeth. However, the doctors at North Aurora Smiles believe that composite fillings are equivalent in strength as amalgams and do not use them for fillings. Additionally most patients do not want amalgams due to their high Mercury content. Porcelain fillings offer excellent durability and aesthetics and are used when there is extensive damage to the tooth from decay. These restorations are more expensive. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your needs.
How long a filling lasts will depend on the material used, the location of the filling, and your oral behaviors. A composite resin filling can usually be expected to have a lifespan of 10-15 years. Porcelain fillings are highly durable, often lasting 15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, can help extend the lifespan of your fillings. If a filling becomes loose or damaged, it should be replaced to prevent further decay.
Getting a filling is generally not painful. Before the procedure begins, the dentist numbs the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. The doctors and North Aurora Smiles have refined their techniques and pride themselves on being able to provide a painless shot. After the procedure, the numbed area may feel a bit sore or sensitive for a short time, but this usually subsides quickly. If you experience significant pain or discomfort after a filling, it’s important to contact your dentist, as this could indicate an issue needing attention.
Yes, it is still possible to get a cavity after a filling. While fillings effectively restore damaged areas of a tooth, the surrounding tooth structure remains susceptible to decay. Poor oral hygiene, such as inadequate brushing and flossing, can lead to new cavities forming around the edges of the filling or in other areas of the tooth. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the health of both the filled tooth and the rest of your teeth, ensuring that any new decay is detected and treated early.
A tooth can receive multiple fillings over time, but each successive filling may involve removing more of the tooth structure. If a tooth has a large or repeatedly filled cavity, the remaining tooth structure may weaken, eventually requiring a more extensive restoration, such as a crown. Your dentist will assess the condition of your tooth and recommend the most appropriate treatment. If the tooth can no longer support another filling, alternatives like inlays, onlays, or crowns may be considered to restore the tooth’s function and integrity.
