Fillings Specialist

What are fillings?

Fillings are one of the most common dental restorations used to repair damage to your enamel caused by a cavity or decay. Getting a filling is a relatively pain-free procedure that usually takes an hour or less.

By applying a filling to a decaying tooth, your San Ramon Dental Excellence provider can prevent further damage or the need for an extraction. In addition, fillings restore your ability to bite and chew without pain or sensitivity.

What is the process of getting a filling?

Before you get a filling, your San Ramon Dental Excellence provider conducts an oral exam and takes digital X-rays of your tooth to determine the extent of the decay.

Next, your dentist administers a local anesthetic, numbing your tooth roots and gums. Once the anesthesia sets in, your dentist carefully drills a hole in your affected tooth. The decay is removed and your tooth is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.

Next, your dentist applies a composite resin solution to your tooth. Your dentist repeats this process several times, curing each layer with a special light. After filling your tooth, your dentist polishes it and checks your bite to make sure it aligns. You leave the office with a healthy, happy smile.

Are there different types of fillings?

There are several different types of fillings, but the team at San Ramon Dental Excellence only uses tooth-colored fillings.

These protect your teeth from further damage and also blend in with your surrounding teeth. This means you can smile, yawn, and laugh confidently, and no one will know you’ve had any work done.

What is the recovery process like after a filling?

After your filling is complete, you can return to normal activity right away. You may experience some pain or general discomfort in the first 24-48 hours following treatment, but this should subside quickly.

To reduce tooth sensitivity, the team at San Ramon Dental Excellence recommends:

• Brushing and flossing more gently than usual
• Chewing on the other side of your mouth for a day or two
• Avoiding acidic foods
• Using a desensitizing toothpaste

If necessary, you can also apply an ice pack to your cheek or take over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen.

If you suspect you might have a cavity, make an appointment with the team by calling San Ramon Dental Excellence today or using the online scheduling tool.