Dental Fillings Hilliard, OH
Have you ever been told you have a cavity? It’s a widespread dental issue, and thankfully, the solution is straightforward and effective. A dental filling is one of the most routine procedures in dental care, designed to restore a damaged tooth to its original shape and strength.
At Hilliard Modern Dental, we believe every patient deserves a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Dr. Benjamin R. Lamielle, DDS, provides high-quality composite resin fillings that restore strength and protect your teeth while blending naturally with the color of your teeth.
Our team takes pride in offering advanced dental care in a comfortable, patient-focused environment. Whether you’ve noticed tooth sensitivity, a cavity, or a damaged tooth surface, we’ll help restore your tooth structure with safe and effective treatment.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is used to repair a tooth that has been affected by tooth cavities, decay, or minor damage. Fillings restore the tooth’s original function, protect it from further decay, and support the surrounding tooth enamel.
When bacteria and food particles linger on the teeth, they can lead to tooth decay that compromises the integrity of your smile. A filling helps stop the progression of decay, strengthens the tooth, and prevents tooth loss.
At our Hilliard office, we primarily use composite resin fillings because they offer both durability and a natural appearance.
Why Are Dental Fillings Needed?
Ignoring a cavity can lead to serious problems, which is why dental fillings are so important. The primary reason you need a filling is to stop tooth decay in its tracks. A cavity is a permanently damaged area on your tooth’s surface that can grow larger and deeper over time. If left untreated, the decay can reach the sensitive inner pulp of your tooth, causing a painful infection or abscess.
Ultimately, a dental filling preserves your natural tooth structure. By removing the decay and sealing the tooth, a filling prevents the cavity from weakening the tooth to the point of breaking or requiring extraction. This simple restorative treatment is a crucial part of good oral hygiene that helps you avoid more complex procedures and potential tooth loss down the road.
Think you may have a cavity? Don’t wait for the pain to get worse, call Hilliard Modern Dental today at 614-529-9644 to schedule your filling and protect your smile.
Common Dental Concerns Addressed by Fillings
Dental fillings are a versatile solution for addressing some of the most common issues we encounter in adult patients. While most people associate them with tooth cavities, their use extends beyond just treating decay. They are a fundamental tool for restoring both the health and appearance of your smile.
Treating Cavities and Tooth Decay
When bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at your tooth enamel, a cavity forms. The dental filling procedure stops this process before it gets worse. Dr. Lamielle will remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill it with a durable material.
Repairing Cracked or Worn Teeth
Teeth can become cracked, chipped, or worn down for various reasons. A dental filling, particularly one made of composite resin, is an excellent way to repair this type of damage and restore your tooth’s original shape.
Types of Dental Filling Materials
There are different types of dental fillings, each with unique benefits and considerations. At Hilliard Modern Dental, we will always guide you to the best option based on the extent of the decay, the location of the tooth, and your personal preferences.
Composite Resin Fillings
- Made from a tooth-colored resin material that blends seamlessly with the color of your teeth.
- Strong enough for both front teeth and back teeth.
- An excellent choice for patients concerned with appearance, since they are nearly invisible once placed.
- Often considered part of cosmetic dentistry, they restore both beauty and function.
Amalgam Fillings
- Sometimes called silver amalgam or amalgam restorations.
- Made of a durable metal mixture that has been used for a long time in dentistry.
- Often recommended for larger cavities in back teeth where chewing pressure is greatest.
- While effective, they do not match the color of your teeth, which is why many patients now choose resin fillings instead.
The Dental Filling Procedure at Hilliard Modern Dental
Getting a filling is a straightforward process that can be completed in a single appointment.
- Examination and Diagnosis – Dr. Lamielle carefully examines your tooth, often taking digital X-rays to determine the extent of the decay.
- Local Anesthetic – A local anesthetic is administered to ensure you feel comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
- Decay Removal – The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, leaving behind a healthy base of tooth structure.
- Tooth Preparation – The area is cleaned and prepared to bond the filling material securely.
- Placement of Filling – A direct filling, such as composite resin, is carefully shaped, layered, and hardened with a special light.
- Final Adjustments – The filling is polished and adjusted so it feels smooth and natural when you bite down.
This filling procedure not only repairs the tooth but also restores its natural strength and appearance.
Ready to restore your tooth with a natural-looking filling? Request your appointment online with Dr. Lamielle and keep your oral health on track.
How Long Do Fillings Typically Last
The lifespan of a filling depends on the type of filling, your oral hygiene, and your diet.
- Composite resin fillings can last 7–10 years with proper care.
- Amalgam fillings may last even longer, but many patients prefer resin because it looks more natural.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular office visits helps extend the life of any restoration.
Over time, fillings may wear down or loosen, especially with heavy chewing. If this happens, a replacement may be needed to maintain proper tooth structure and prevent decay from spreading.
Can Fillings Fall Out or Need Replacement?
While uncommon, fillings can become loose or fall out due to:
- Wear and tear over a long time
- Biting down on hard foods
- New cavities are forming around the filling material
- Cracks in the tooth enamel
If you experience a lost or damaged filling, it’s important to schedule an appointment right away. Ignoring the issue could lead to more serious dental problems, such as infection or even the need for a root canal.
Tooth Sensitivity After Fillings
Some patients experience mild tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods after receiving a filling. This is a normal part of the healing process and usually resolves within a few days. If sensitivity lasts for a long time, Dr. Lamielle will examine the filling to ensure it is correctly placed and adjusted.
Benefits of Composite Resin
Composite resin is the preferred filling material for most Hilliard patients today because it offers:
- A natural appearance that matches the color of your teeth
- Strong adhesion to the tooth surface for reliable support
- Less drilling compared to amalgam fillings, preserving more of your healthy tooth enamel
- Versatility for both front teeth and back teeth
Composite resin fillings are considered a great way to combine durability with aesthetics in modern general dentistry.
How Fillings Support Long-Term Oral Health
A dental filling does more than just fix a single tooth; it plays a crucial role in your overall long-term oral health. By treating tooth decay early, a filling stops the problem from advancing into a much more serious issue. If a cavity is left untreated, the decay can spread deep into the tooth’s pulp, leading to a painful infection that may require a root canal or even extraction.
When properly placed, a dental filling seals off the vulnerable parts of your tooth from harmful bacteria. This simple step is a cornerstone of preventive care. Maintaining your filling with good oral hygiene, consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, ensures your restored tooth remains strong and healthy, helping you avoid more complex and costly treatments in the future.
What to Do When You Suspect You Need a Filling
Cavities often start small, and many patients don’t realize they need a dental filling until discomfort begins to set in. The earlier you act, the easier it is to protect your tooth structure and prevent more serious dental problems.
Some of the most common warning signs that you may need a filling include:
- Tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A sharp pain when biting down on a specific tooth surface
- Noticeable holes, chips, or dark spots on a tooth
- Food is getting trapped in the same place repeatedly
- Rough edges that you can feel with your tongue
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lamielle, DDS, as soon as possible. Even if the discomfort is minor, small cavities can quickly spread deeper into the tooth enamel, leading to the need for a crown or even a root canal.
Restoring Your Smile with Hilliard Modern Dental
At Hilliard Modern Dental, Dr. Lamielle, DDS, provides trusted dental services that prioritize your comfort and long-term oral health. From routine cleanings to advanced restorations, our team is committed to keeping your smile strong and beautiful.
If you think you may need a filling, don’t wait until the cavity worsens. Call our Hilliard office today at 614-529-9644 to schedule your appointment and protect your healthy smile.
