Fillings

Dental fillings are a standard solution to repairing teeth that have been damaged or have tooth decay. We use high-quality materials so your tooth will be preserved and look natural. The filling material “fills in” the damaged area and helps to prevent further damage or decay.

The Different Filling Types

There are different types of dental fillings made from other materials. The filling your dentist recommends will depend on the location and size of the tooth decay and your chewing habits. Dental fillings include amalgam (silver), composite (tooth-colored), gold, and porcelain.

Amalgam (silver) fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including copper, tin, and silver. Amalgam fillings are less expensive than other types of fillings and last longer. However, they are also more noticeable.

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings are made from a combination of glass or quartz filler and a resin binder. Composite fillings are less noticeable than amalgam fillings, but they may not last as long.

Gold fillings are made from gold and other metals. Gold fillings are more expensive than different fillings but can last many years.

Porcelain fillings are made from a type of ceramic. Porcelain fillings are less noticeable than amalgam fillings, but they may not last as long.

I Think I Have a Cavity?

When parts of a tooth have been damaged, we ensure that the tooth is preserved and that future damage is prevented by carefully replacing that part of the tooth with a high-quality dental filling. Cavities are the most common reason for someone to need a filling, but other causes that may necessitate a filling include:

Grinding your teeth.
Chipping a tooth.
Using your teeth as tools.
Even biting your nails.

These habits can erode the chewing surfaces of your teeth enough to require a filling to restore a healthy bite.

How do I Know if I Need a Dental Filling?

The best way to determine if you need a filling is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Les Ledbetter in our Ardmore and Wynnewood, OK office. We will thoroughly examine your teeth and determine the best way to restore your smile.

You May Need A Tooth Filling If:

You observe visible holes or dark spots on a tooth
There are visible chips or cracks in your teeth
Your teeth are extremely sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods
You feel a sharp pain when biting down on the affected tooth
You feel a constant dull pain or ache in a tooth

What Happens During the Dental Filling Procedure?

Dental Fillings do not have to be unpleasant – first, we use a topical numbing gel to numb the gums, then we will numb the area of your mouth needing the filling to ensure that the restoration of your tooth is as painless as possible.

Next, we will use specialized dental instruments to gently remove any decay or damaged tooth material. Once the area is prepared, we will place the filling material in the tooth. The filling material will be based on your specific needs and Dr. Ledbetter’s recommendation.

We then harden the filling material using a special light. Finally, we will polish the tooth to restore its natural appearance.

As part of our personalized care, we strive to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible when we serve your dental needs. We also offer laughing gas, which provides a calming effect for patients suffering from excessive dental anxiety.

How Long do Dental Fillings Last?

The lifespan of a filling depends on the type of material used and how well you take care of your teeth. Amalgam (silver) fillings can last up to 15 years, while composite (tooth-colored) fillings may only last for 5 to 7 years. Gold fillings can last up to 20 years, and porcelain fillings may last for 10 to 15 years.

Expert Dental Filling Service at Ledbetter Family Dental Care

You’ll want to smile confidently after we repair your tooth with a dental filling. Our team is experienced in providing quality dental fillings that will make you happy with the results.

Ledbetter Family Dental Care

Fillings

The Different Filling Types

I Think I Have a Cavity?

How do I Know if I Need a Dental Filling?

What Happens During the Dental Filling Procedure?

How Long do Dental Fillings Last?

Expert Dental Filling Service at Ledbetter Family Dental Care

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