What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings restore teeth that have been affected by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. By removing the damaged portion and sealing the tooth with a strong, biocompatible material, we help protect your teeth from further deterioration while maintaining their natural function and appearance.
Our practice exclusively uses composite (white) fillings for their superior benefits over traditional metal fillings:
✓ Natural Appearance – Composite fillings match the color of your teeth, making them virtually invisible.
✓ Mercury-Free – Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings contain no mercury, eliminating health concerns.
✓ Minimally Invasive – Composite materials bond directly to the tooth, preserving more of your natural structure.
✓ Durability & Flexibility – Composite fillings expand and contract more naturally with your teeth, reducing the risk of cracks over time.
✓ Better Long-Term Oral Health – With a secure bond and a tight seal, composite fillings help prevent bacteria from re-entering the treated area.
How Do I Know If I Need a Filling?
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you may need a dental filling:
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Sharp pain when biting down
• Visible cracks, chips, or dark spots on a tooth
• Food getting trapped in certain areas of your teeth
• Cavities won’t heal on their own—addressing them early with a filling can prevent
more extensive dental procedures down the road.
The Dental Filling Process
At TLC Dental Care, we make getting a filling painless, and stress-free:
1️. Gentle Numbing – We use a local anesthetic to ensure total comfort.
2️. Decay Removal – The damaged portion of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected.
3️. Tooth-Colored Filling Placement – We apply the composite material, shaping it for a natural fit.
4️. Curing & Polishing – A special light hardens the filling, followed by polishing for a smooth, seamless finish.
The entire process typically takes 30–60 minutes, and most patients can resume their normal activities right away.
Caring for Your Fillings
With proper care, fillings can last for many years. To extend their lifespan:
✔ Brush twice a day and floss daily
✔ Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens
✔ Visit our office for regular check-ups to monitor your fillings
✔ Consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth
