If you’ve ever been told you need a filling, you’re not alone, and it’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Cavities are incredibly common, and they don’t mean you’ve failed at taking care of your teeth. Life gets busy, and sometimes even with the best brushing habits, decay can sneak in. At David C. Wood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re passionate about helping every patient understand their options, feel confident in our care, and walk out of our office with a healthy, pain-free smile. Here’s what you need to know about cavity fillings.
Cavity Filling Explained
A filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. After your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, the remaining space is “filled” with a material that seals off the area and restores the tooth’s original shape and function. Fillings prevent further decay, ease discomfort, and strengthen the tooth for long-term use.
Common Types of Filling Materials
We offer a range of filling materials at our Carmel, IN office, each with its benefits and considerations. Here’s a quick rundown:
Composite Resin Fillings
These tooth-colored fillings are made of a durable plastic and glass mixture that bonds directly to your tooth. Composite is the go-to for most patients today because it blends in naturally, making it perfect for visible areas of the mouth. It’s also an excellent option for small to moderate cavities.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam has been used in dentistry for over a century. It’s made from a mix of metals, including silver, tin, and mercury. Known for its strength and longevity, amalgam is a reliable choice for molars or back teeth, but its metallic color makes it more noticeable.
Gold Fillings
Although less common today, gold is still a premium option due to its strength and wear resistance. Gold fillings typically last the longest but require more than one visit and come with a higher price tag.
Ceramic Fillings
Made of high-quality porcelain, ceramic fillings are both durable and stain-resistant. They offer a natural appearance and are ideal for larger restorations where aesthetics are crucial, such as front teeth or smile lines.
Choosing the Right Filling
Choosing the best filling material depends on several factors:
Location of the cavity – Front teeth often benefit from tooth-colored materials, while back molars may require stronger options.
Size of the cavity – Larger restorations may require a more durable material, such as ceramic or gold.
Your budget – Composite and amalgam are more affordable, while gold and ceramic can be more of an investment.
Aesthetic preference – If you want your filling to blend in seamlessly, composite or ceramic may be your best bet.
At David C. Wood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we walk you through the options and help you make a choice that aligns with your health goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Post-Filling Care Tips
Once your filling is complete, you’re on your way to a healthier smile—but a little aftercare goes a long way in ensuring it lasts. Here are a few tips we share with our patients after a filling:
Watch for Sensitivity: It’s normal to feel some sensitivity to hot or cold foods for a few days. If it lingers beyond a week or worsens, give us a call.
Be Mindful of Numbing: If your mouth was numbed during the procedure, avoid chewing until the sensation fully returns to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss once a day, and schedule regular cleanings to prevent new cavities from forming around the filling.
Skip Sticky or Hard Foods (for a bit): Especially within the first 24 hours, avoid chewing gum, hard candies, or anything too crunchy until your filling settles in.
Monitor for Any Changes: If you notice unevenness when biting down or experience discomfort, please let us know—we can easily adjust the filling if needed.
A Healthier Smile Starts Here
Whether you need a dental implant, dental crowns, or full mouth rehabilitation, our team in Carmel, IN, is here to provide compassionate, top-notch care that’s tailored to you. Your comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health are always our top priority. Call us today at (317) 844-0592 to request an appointment. We’ll help you restore your smile—one tooth at a time!