Dental Fillings in West Orange, NJ: Repair and Restore Your Smile

When it comes to treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth, dental fillings are an effective solution. At West Orange Easy Dental Implant Center, we offer a range of high-quality fillings designed to preserve and protect your teeth. Whether you need a filling for a cavity or to repair a cracked or worn-down tooth, our team is here to ensure you receive comfortable, durable, and aesthetic treatment.

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities, or dental caries, are caused by acid-producing bacteria found in plaque. These acids erode the enamel—the outer protective layer of your tooth—creating small holes or cavities. If left untreated, cavities can progress deeper into the tooth, causing pain, infection, and potentially leading to more complex procedures like root canals. Catching and treating cavities early with a filling can save you from future complications.

Types of Dental Filling Materials

At our office, we offer several types of dental filling materials, each with unique properties suited to specific needs. Here’s a closer look:

Composite Resin

Composite resin fillings are made from a blend of glass or quartz filler, allowing them to be matched to your tooth’s color for a seamless appearance. They’re durable and suitable for both front and back teeth, especially in areas that are visible when you smile. Composite is the most popular choice due to its aesthetic value and strength.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam, or silver fillings, have been used in dentistry for over 150 years and are known for their durability. Made from a mix of metals, amalgam is highly resistant to wear, making it ideal for large cavities in the back teeth. However, due to its metallic color, it’s less common for visible areas of the smile.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are laboratory-made and later cemented into place. Known as inlays, gold fillings are unmatched in durability, often lasting more than 20 years. While they are visible due to their metallic appearance, gold inlays are an excellent choice for long-term durability in the back teeth.

Quick Tip: If aesthetics are a priority, consider composite resin or porcelain inlays for a natural look, while amalgam or gold may be better for strength in areas with heavy chewing forces.

The Composite Filling Procedure: What to Expect

For a composite filling, the procedure is relatively straightforward and can typically be completed in a single visit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect:

1. Numbing the Area

We start by applying a local anesthetic to numb the area, ensuring that you’ll be comfortable throughout the procedure.

2. Removing Decay

Dr. Pyo will gently remove any decayed material from the tooth and clean the cavity to prepare for the filling.

3. Preparing the Surface

The cavity surface is etched and conditioned to create a strong bond between the composite and the tooth.

4. Placing the Filling

We mix the composite resin to match your tooth color and place it directly into the cavity. An ultraviolet curing light hardens the material and speeds up the bonding process.

5. Polishing the Filling

Finally, we trim any excess material and polish the filling to match the natural sheen of your enamel.

Aftercare Tips for Your New Dental Filling

Caring for your dental filling is simple. Here’s how you can maintain it for years to come:

• Oral Hygiene: Brushing with ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily can help prevent further decay around the filling.

• Regular Checkups: Schedule routine cleanings and exams to monitor the filling and overall oral health.

• Sensitivity Management: It’s normal to experience mild sensitivity in the first few days. If sensitivity persists or worsens, reach out to our office so we can assess and adjust if necessary.

Tip: Avoid very hard or sticky foods in the first 24 hours to protect your new filling, especially if you had anesthesia.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings offer several benefits beyond just cavity repair:

• Restores Function: Fillings restore the tooth’s shape and function, making it easier to chew and speak comfortably.

• Prevents Decay Spread: By sealing the cavity, a filling prevents further decay and protects the inner layers of the tooth.

• Improves Aesthetics: Composite and porcelain fillings blend naturally with your tooth, enhancing your smile without visible metal.

• Durable Solution: With proper care, fillings can last many years, providing a cost-effective solution to restore damaged teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long do dental fillings last?

A: Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, while amalgam and gold fillings can last up to 15 years or more with proper care.

Q: Is getting a filling painful?

A: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward is normal.

Q: Can I eat after a filling?

A: Yes, but it’s best to avoid hard or sticky foods for a few hours. For fillings done with local anesthesia, wait until the numbness wears off to prevent accidental biting.

Q: What if my filling falls out or feels loose?

A: Contact us as soon as possible. A loose or missing filling leaves the tooth vulnerable to decay and should be addressed promptly.

Schedule Your Appointment for a Dental Filling

If you have a cavity or are experiencing tooth pain, it’s best to address it early with a filling to prevent further complications. Call (862) 233-7057 to schedule your appointment at West Orange Easy Dental Implant Center, and let us restore and protect your smile.