Dental Fillings Specialist in Clifton, NJ

Dental fillings are used to repair or “fill” a small area of the tooth that was removed due to decay. Dental fillings can also be used to fix small cracks in the teeth that are commonly caused by teeth grinding and nail biting. In some cases, composite fillings are used to address badly stained teeth and create a more attractive smile.

There are different types of fillings available, such as gold, composite, and amalgam. The dentist will assess your tooth and determine the best type of filling depending on your specific needs and the location of that tooth in your mouth.

In summary, if a small amount of decay is discovered on a tooth, a dental professional can correct it with a filling. They will guide you through the steps in the process to ensure you feel well-informed and help you choose the type of filling that’s right for you.

Dental fillings are a common approach to protecting teeth affected by decay and preventing the damage from spreading. When you get a filling, the dental professional meticulously cleans the decayed matter out of the cavity. Next, the hole created by the damage is sealed with a filling to protect the nerve endings and prevent bacteria from entering the tooth and causing an infection.

If you have cracks, cavities, or other minor damage to a tooth, dental fillings offer a straightforward and convenient way to treat such issues. Additionally, this technique can be used to improve the look of discolored teeth, creating a more attractive smile and enhancing the patient’s confidence.

Each type of dental filling comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, while gold fillings are expensive, they are durable and strong. Similarly, while amalgam fillings are durable and less expensive than other types of fillings, they are less aesthetically pleasing than composite or ceramic fillings. Therefore, the dental professional will discuss your needs and preferences and recommend the option that has the most advantages for your circumstances.

Some of the most common types of dental fillings include:

Gold fillings: One of the primary advantages of this type of filling is that it typically lasts between 10 and 15 years. Gold fillings are durable, making them ideal for teeth toward the back of the mouth. Due to their strength, gold fillings often cost more compared to other options.

Amalgam fillings: Also known as silver fillings, amalgam fillings are strong and usually last 10 to 15 years. These fillings are less aesthetically pleasing than alternatives, so they are usually used on the back teeth. Silver fillings are typically less expensive than gold or composite fillings.

Tooth-colored composite fillings: The main advantage of composite fillings is their aesthetics. These fillings are closely matched to the color of your teeth to provide a seamless correction. Additionally, composite fillings are versatile and can be used to address chipped, worn, or discolored teeth.

Glass ionomer fillings: Glass ionomer fillings are made of a blend of glass and acrylic materials. They are often used for treating small cavities in children. Glass ionomer fillings are best for areas of the mouth with low chewing pressure.

On average, dental fillings last between 7 and 20 years. This time frame is influenced by the material used, the location of the tooth, the size of the filling, and your commitment to oral hygiene. Due to the biting forces that we exert on our teeth daily, dental fillings can experience wear and tear over time and eventually get loose. In some cases, the filling may even fall out completely.

It’s recommended to see a dentist twice a year for a check-up and a professional cleaning. At these visits, your dentist will assess the condition of your fillings and let you know if a replacement is needed. With regular check-ups, your dentist will be able to let you know if a filling needs to be replaced before you notice anything unusual. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. Our dental practice is conveniently located at 1113 Main Avenue, Suite A, Clifton, NJ 07011. We serve patients from Clifton NJ, Passaic NJ, Woodland Park NJ, Nutley NJ, Garfield NJ, Fairfield NJ, and BEYOND!