DENTAL FILLINGS

Dental Fillings at The Smile Suite

Dental fillings are structures designed to support teeth weakened by decay or fracture. At The Smile Suite, we fix and restore your tooth by removing the decayed or damaged tooth structure and repair it with a resin based composite filling.

A resin based composite filling is a white filling that is BPA free and very biocompatible. It is bonded into your tooth, restoring both function and esthetics.

What is the Procedure for Applying Dental Fillings

1. We numb the area of your tooth that needs a filling with a local anesthetic. Then, we remove the decayed part of the tooth structure using an air abrasion instrument or drill, depending on the extent of the tooth decay.

2. We probe or test the damaged area to check if all the decay has been removed. Then we prepare the tooth for the filling by clearing it of debris or bacteria. If the decay has reached near the root, we may need to put in a liner made of composite resin or glass ionomer to protect your tooth's nerve. Then, after we put the filling in, we finish and polish your tooth.

There are additional steps we take when applying tooth-colored fillings. After we remove the decay and clean the compromised tooth, we layer the application of tooth-colored materials. Next, we use a special light or "cure" to harden every layer. We finalize the result by shaping the composite material to match your bite and surrounding teeth, trim off the excess material, and finally, polish the restored tooth.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

What are the Types of Filling Materials Available?

Amalgam fillings, which are made of a mixture of metals including mercury, have been used for dental fillings for many years but have come under scrutiny due to concerns over the potential health effects of mercury exposure. Some studies have linked mercury exposure to various health problems, including neurological damage and kidney problems.

Additionally, amalgam fillings can weaken over time and can cause cracks in teeth, leading to further dental problems. At The Smile Suite, we do not use or promote silver amalgam fillings. Instead, we choose safer alternatives, such as:

1. COMPOSITE RESIN

This is a tooth-colored mixture of plastic and glass that can be shaped and polished to match the appearance of natural teeth.
2. GLASS IONOMER

This material releases fluoride over time, which helps to prevent tooth decay and is considered safe for individuals who are mercury-sensitive.
3. CERAMIC

These fillings are made of high-quality porcelain and are matched to the color of the surrounding teeth.

It's important to note that while these materials are considered safe and effective alternatives to amalgam fillings, each individual case is unique, and the most appropriate material for a particular patient will depend on the specific needs and conditions of that patient. At The Smile Suite, we can provide personalized recommendations.