Dental Fillings in Tempe, Arizona
Whether you need to get a cavity filled or replace an old filling, the team at A Great Smile Arizona is here to ensure you get the best care possible.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are materials used to restore and repair teeth that decay, fracture, or other forms of dental deterioration have been damaged. Fillings are designed to replace the lost tooth structure, preventing further decay and restoring the tooth's function and appearance. At A Great Smile Arizona in Tempe, we offer high-quality dental fillings to improve your smile for years to come.
What We Offer
COMPOSITE FILLINGS
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Composite fillings are composed of a mixture of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles, resulting in a tooth-colored material that closely matches the natural appearance and durability of the tooth. Composite fillings are more natural-looking and work to seamlessly blend in with the patient's tooth color, which is why they're often referred to as "tooth-colored" fillings.
The Dental Filling Process
1. NUMBING
When you come for a dental filling treatment, Dr. Mike Nguyen will first numb the area around your tooth. This helps to reduce discomfort and soreness during the procedure.
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2. REMOVING THE DECAY
Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth with special dental equipment. The goal is to get rid of any bacteria and debris that may be present in the cavity, ensuring your tooth stays healthy for years to come.
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3. CLEANING
The dentist will clean the remaining portion of your tooth using a polishing instrument and rinse it with a solution to further remove any bacteria or debris from the area.
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4. LAYERING AND BONDING
The dentist will apply composite fillings in layers, hardening each layer using a special curing light. This layering technique allows Dr. Nguyen to sculpt the filling to match the natural shape and contours of the tooth. The filling becomes strong and durable as each layer is applied and cured.
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5. SHAPING AND POLISHING
Once the filling material is placed, the dentist shapes and sculpts it to resemble the tooth's natural form. The filling is then polished to enhance its appearance to create a comfortable bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Fillings Painful?​
No! Most people don't feel pain while getting dental fillings because Dr. Nguyen uses an anesthetic to numb the area before the treatment. You may feel pressure as your dentist works to fit the filling, but it should not be painful.
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Can I Eat After Getting A Dental Filling?
Yes, generally, after you get a dental filling, you can resume your regular eating habits almost immediately.
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What Are Composite Fillings Made Of?
Composite fillings are tooth colored and are made from powdered glass quartz, silica or other ceramic particles added to a resin base. After the tooth is prepared, the filling is bonded onto the area and a light shone onto it to set it.