Dental Filling
Fort Worth, TX
 At Del Mar Dental, we can restore the normal functions and shape of your teeth with fillings. When a tooth starts to decay, a cavity may be created that may need to be filled. If you or your child's or someone in your family's teeth start to decay, there’s no cause for alarm. We can help you out with a filling.
What’s a Dental Filling?
It’s a restoration that helps repair minor or moderate tooth damage. Our dentist may recommend a dental filling if your tooth is damaged by decay, has a cavity, or if it suffers from minor chipping or fracturing. The filling will restore your tooth to its original function and structure and improve your smile.
Dental Filling Types
Dental fillings may be made of different materials, but the two main ones are amalgam (silver) and composite (tooth-colored). Our dentist will recommend the right material for you based on where you need the filling, the extent of the decay, and if you’re allergic to any materials.
Amalgam (Silver): These fillings are relatively inexpensive and resistant to wear. They’re made of a blend of metals, including silver, copper, tin, and mercury. As their dark color makes them more visible than composite fillings, they aren’t normally used in very noticeable areas, like front teeth.
Composite (Tooth-colored): These restorations are made from a combination of quartz or glass materials that provide strong resistance to fracture and good durability. They’re matched with the color of your teeth and, thus, are perfect if you desire a natural appearance. We mix the ingredients and place them right into the cavity, and harden them with a special kind of light. In many cases, composite fillings are also used to protect against tooth fracture if the cavity is large.
Dental Filling Procedure
The process of placing a dental filling takes just one visit to our practice. Our dentist will begin by removing the damaged and decayed part of your tooth. They’ll then clean your teeth to remove all of the decay. Next, they’ll place the filling material in your tooth and shape it according to your tooth’s shape. Lastly, they’ll harden the filling for a permanent restoration.
Choosing Your Dental Filling
When it comes to fillings, it’s vital to know that you’ve got the right to choose, after a consultation with our dentist, materials, and treatments that are suitable for your needs. Our dentist considers what materials to use on a case by case basis, taking into consideration the location and size of your cavity.
Other factors you might want to consider include cosmetic considerations, insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and how long the filling might last. We encourage you to discuss your filling options with our dentist so you can pick the best material for you.
If your tooth’s damaged or decayed, a dental filling can be a great option for restoring your oral function and health. To learn more about dental fillings, we invite you to drop by our office. Or you can set up an appointment with us by contacting Del Mar Dental at (817) 710-2609 today! |
