Dental fillings are restorative materials used by dentists in Los Gatos, CA, to repair and restore teeth affected by decay, cavities, or damage. Typically made from materials such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain, fillings are placed into the prepared cavity after the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth has been removed.

Fillings not only restore the function and structural integrity of the tooth but also prevent further decay and deterioration. They are customarily color-matched to the tooth's natural shade, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result while ensuring the tooth can function adequately for years.

Types of Dental Fillings 

Composite Fillings 

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored or white fillings, are crafted from a blend of plastic resin and glass particles. Renowned for their natural appearance and versatility, composite fillings are color-matched to the shade of the surrounding teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with the smile. These fillings are ideal for repairing cavities in visible areas of the mouth, as they display excellent aesthetics and can be precisely sculpted to mimic the contours of natural tooth enamel. 

Porcelain Fillings 

Porcelain fillings are custom-crafted restorations fabricated in a dental laboratory from high-quality ceramic material. They can provide superior aesthetics, strength, and longevity, making them ideal for larger cavities or areas of extensive damage. Porcelain fillings are meticulously designed to match the natural color, translucency, and texture of the surrounding teeth, providing a seamless and lifelike restoration that blends seamlessly with the smile. 

Gold Fillings 

While less common than other fillings, gold fillings remain a steadfast option valued for their longevity, biocompatibility, and ability to withstand the forces of chewing without wearing down opposing teeth. Crafted from a blend of gold and other metals, gold fillings offer unparalleled durability and longevity, making them an excellent choice for patients seeking a long-term restorative solution. While their distinct appearance may not appeal to everyone, gold fillings are a testament to traditional dentistry's enduring elegance. 

The Dental Filling Procedure 

The dental filling procedure typically begins with local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using a dental drill or laser. The prepared cavity is then cleaned and disinfected to remove debris or bacteria. 

Next, the chosen filling material is placed into the cavity and shaped to restore the natural contours of the tooth. The material is applied in layers and hardened with a special curing light for composite fillings, allowing for precise shaping and bonding to the tooth structure. Once the filling is in place, the dentist at Orchid Dental Care will polish it to ensure a smooth surface and comfortable bite. 

Aftercare and Maintenance 

After receiving a dental filling, patients may experience some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, which should subside within a few days. Good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups, are important to maintain the health of the filling and surrounding teeth. 

Avoiding hard or sticky foods that may damage the filling is also recommended, as is wearing a mouthguard if participating in activities that could potentially cause trauma to the teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental fillings can last many years, providing durable and reliable restoration to the treated tooth. 

The Benefits of Dental Fillings 

• Dental fillings in Los Gatos, CA, restore the integrity and functionality of teeth that cavities, decay, fractures, or other forms of damage have compromised. By filling in the void left by decay or injury, fillings rebuild the natural shape and structure of the tooth, allowing for normal chewing, biting, and speaking functions. 
• Left untreated, cavities and decay can spread deeper into the tooth, leading to more extensive damage, infection, and potential tooth loss. Dental fillings halt the progression of decay by removing the affected tissue and sealing off the cavity, preventing bacteria from infiltrating the tooth and causing further harm. 
• Cavities and areas of tooth decay can cause sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. Dental fillings protect the exposed dentin and nerves within the tooth, reducing sensitivity and discomfort associated with temperature changes or external stimuli. 
• Unlike tooth extraction, which removes a damaged or decayed tooth entirely, dental fillings preserve natural tooth structure. By repairing and restoring the tooth with a filling, the dentist helps maintain the integrity and stability of the natural dentition, avoiding the need for more invasive and costly dental procedures. Contact us today! 
• With advancements in dental materials and techniques, dental fillings can be custom-colored and blended to match surrounding teeth's natural shade and translucency, creating a seamless and aesthetically pleasing restoration. Tooth-colored composite fillings, in particular, are a discreet and natural-looking solution for restoring decayed or damaged teeth. 
• By addressing cavities and decay promptly, dental fillings contribute to overall oral health and hygiene. Removing decayed tissue and sealing off cavities helps eliminate sources of infection and bacteria, reducing the risk of complications such as abscesses, gum disease, and systemic health problems associated with poor oral health. 

Dental fillings are crucial in preserving the integrity and functionality of teeth affected by decay or damage. By repairing and restoring compromised teeth, fillings prevent further decay, infection, or loss of tooth structure, ultimately preserving oral health and maintaining a beautiful, confident smile. Visit Orchid Dental Care at 320 Los Gatos—Saratoga Road, Los Gatos, CA 95030, or call (408) 395-8888 to discuss your dental filling options. Don't let decay or damage compromise your smile any longer.