Dental Fillings

Restore Your Smile with Confidence

Dental Fillings at The Bellport Village Dentist

What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a procedure used by a dentist when he/she is removing a cavity. The dentist will drill around the decayed area in the tooth to remove the cavity and then ‘fill’ in the removed space with a dental filling. Because the materials used to create fillings are meant to mimic the look and durability of teeth, they can also be used to repair chipped or broken teeth. After the material is inserted into the cavity, the dentist will use instruments to shape it into the shape of the desired tooth. The dentist will shape the tooth to look natural, matching the color and shape of the other teeth, thereby unaffecting the patient’s smile. Using a special ‘blue light,’ the dentist will harden the material in a matter of seconds, and then shape and polish the hardened material to complete the restoration.

Types of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by decay, cracks, or wear. Choosing the right filling depends on various factors, including the tooth’s location, the extent of decay, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Below are the most common types of dental fillings:

Amalgam Fillings

Also called silver fillings, these are resistant to wear and highly durable. They have been a restorative material of nearly 100 years and with proper care can last a lifetime.

Gold Fillings

Possibly the most famous of the types of dental fillings, gold fillings are durable and can last up to 20 years. Gold can be an expensive option and as such is not often the patient’s first choice.

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are the most common type of fillings. Made of a resin base, these fillings are designed to mimic the exact color of teeth and offer the dentist the widest variety. Composites may wear over time and can also become stained by coffee – just like real teeth!

Porcelain fillings

called inlays or onlays, these types of fillings are produced in a lab and then chemically bonded to the tooth. They are similarly priced to gold fillings but can be created to match the color of surrounding teeth.

For dental fillings, Dr. Graskemper will advise on what option is the best per each situation. For more general knowledge about dental fillings, do not hesitate to call our friendly staff to learn more.

Our Dental Filling Process

Our dental fillings are quick, gentle, and customized to your comfort. Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens during your visit:

Before we begin, your dentist will carefully examine the tooth using visual checks and X-rays (if needed). This helps identify the extent of decay or damage and determine the best filling type.

To ensure your comfort, we’ll gently numb the area around the tooth. Most patients feel little to no discomfort during this step.

We carefully remove all decayed or damaged portions of the tooth using specialized dental tools. This step prepares the area for a strong and lasting filling.

Once the area is clean, we place the chosen filling material—whether it’s composite, amalgam, or ceramic—into the tooth. It’s shaped and sculpted to match your natural bite.

If a tooth-colored filling is used, a special light is used to harden it instantly. Then, we polish the tooth for a smooth and natural look and feel.

Professional Dental Cleanings

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What Our Patients Are Saying

Jessica T

I hadn’t had a cleaning in over a year, but they made me feel so comfortable. The hygienist was gentle, thorough, and kind. My teeth have never felt better!

Mark R

From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed. The dental cleaning was quick, painless, and incredibly thorough. My teeth look and feel amazing!

Aisha P

Highly professional service. The staff explained each step and made sure I was at ease throughout the cleaning. Definitely coming back!

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dental fillings hurt?

No, the procedure is typically painless. We use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you won’t feel discomfort during the filling. You may feel slight sensitivity for a day or two afterward, which is normal.

Can I eat after a filling?

Yes—but if you've had a composite filling, you can eat as soon as the numbness wears off. For amalgam fillings, it's best to wait a few hours to let it set completely.

Can a filling fall out?

It’s rare but possible—especially if the tooth is under a lot of pressure or the filling is old. If this happens, contact your dentist promptly to have it repaired or replaced.

How do I care for my fillings?

Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly. Avoid chewing hard objects (like ice or pens), and let your dentist know if you feel any discomfort, as this might mean the filling needs adjustment or replacement.

Healthy

Time to Restore Your Smile with Confidence

Don’t wait for that cavity to get worse! Whether you need a new filling or want to replace an old one, our expert dental team is here to help you smile with confidence.