Restore Your Teeth with Durable, Natural-Looking Fillings
Dental Fillings
Taking care of your dental health is important, and addressing tooth decay is vital for a healthy smile. When decay sets in and creates cavities, dental fillings become necessary to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
At Encompass Dental Studio, serving Columbus and Central Ohio, our team provides personalized and effective dental care for patients of all ages. Tooth decay and damage can compromise oral health, but our team ensures your smile remains strong and healthy with advanced solutions like composite fillings. Discover how we can restore your teeth with care and precision.
Recognizing Signs of Tooth Decay and Damage
Tooth decay, often leading to cavities, occurs when enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth, erodes due to bacterial activity. Left untreated, dental decay spreads and affects deeper layers, causing pain and further damage.
Cavities and tooth decay can develop silently, making regular dental checkups essential. Common signs include:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Visible holes or dark spots on your tooth enamel.
- Pain or discomfort when chewing.
- Bad breath or a persistent bad taste in your mouth.
Our dentists use advanced diagnostic tools to detect dental decay early, helping you avoid more extensive treatment. Addressing these issues ensures the longevity of your tooth structure and overall dental health.
Composite Fillings: A Modern Solution
Composite fillings, made from composite resin, have revolutionized restorative dentistry. These durable materials blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings prioritize aesthetics and strength. The dental filling material bonds directly to the tooth structure, preserving more enamel.
Other benefits of composite materials are:
- Natural appearance, matching the color and shape of the tooth.
- Durable and resistant to wear.
- Mercury-free and safe for patients of all ages.
Composite resin fillings are reliable and effective solutions for treating cavities for young children or adults.
Why Treat Cavities Early?
Cavities don’t heal on their own. Left untreated, dental decay can progress, affecting the tooth enamel and reaching the dental pulp. This can lead to more severe health conditions and require complex treatment options such as root canals or extractions. Early intervention with composite fillings protects your teeth and helps maintain your smile.
What to Expect During the Dental Filling Process
At Encompass Dental Studio, we ensure your dental filling procedure is comfortable and stress-free. Knowing what to expect at each step can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you for a smooth experience.
Diagnosis and Examination
One of our doctors will examine your teeth, review X-rays, and determine the extent of the decay. We’ll discuss your treatment options and recommend the best restorative material.
Anesthesia
To ensure a pain-free experience, we’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the affected area before beginning the procedure. The anesthetic is typically injected near the filling site and temporarily blocks nerve signals, preventing the transmission of pain sensations. You’ll remain conscious throughout the procedure, but the numbed area will prevent discomfort.
Tooth Preparation
After the anesthesia takes effect, your dentist will isolate the tooth treated using a rubber dam or cotton rolls. This keeps the area dry and saliva-free, which is essential for the filling material to bond correctly. Next, one of our dentists will remove the decayed portion of the tooth, leaving only the healthy tooth structure intact. This step is necessary to prevent further dental decay.
Filling Material Placement
Our team uses composite materials, so the filling is applied in layers, ensuring optimal durability and fit. Each layer is cured with a special light for strength.
Finishing and Polishing
The composite resin filling is shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. Polishing ensures a smooth finish that feels comfortable and natural.
Bite Check
Ensuring a comfortable and properly aligned bite is critical to the dental filling procedure. We’ll check your bite to ensure proper alignment and make any necessary adjustments for comfort.
Post-Procedure Instructions
After your procedure, we’ll provide guidance on maintaining your dental care, including tips on using fluoride toothpaste and practicing good oral hygiene to protect your fillings.
Stop Dental Decay Today with Dental Fillings
At Encompass Dental Studio, we’re committed to delivering durable and aesthetically pleasing results for every patient in Central Ohio. Whether you need dental restoration or have concerns about tooth sensitivity, our team is here to provide expert care. Call our Upper Arlington or Westerville office to schedule your appointment today, and let us help you achieve optimal oral health.
