Dental Fillings

Dental services

Dental Fillings at Titan Dental

At Titan Dental, Dr. Thuy B. Le and our team are proud to offer comprehensive Dental Fillings services tailored to your needs. Our modern techniques and compassionate care ensure your comfort while maintaining your oral health.

Why Do You Need Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal shape and function. At Titan Dental, we use durable and natural-looking materials for long-lasting results

What happens during a dental filling procedure?

When you visit Titan Dental for a filling, we strive to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s how Dr. Le and our team typically complete a dental filling:

Gentle Numbing: We begin by applying a local anesthetic to keep your tooth and surrounding area comfortable.
Careful Removal of Decay: Dr. Le then removes any decayed or damaged tissue, ensuring the tooth is clean and healthy.
Filling Placement: The prepared space is filled with a natural-looking, durable material that blends with your existing teeth.
Hardening and Shaping: For tooth-colored composite fillings, a special curing light hardens the material, followed by polishing for a smooth, seamless finish.
Bite Check: We make sure everything feels natural and adjust if necessary, so your bite remains comfortable.

If you’re nervous about dental visits, just let us know; our team can discuss sedation options to help you feel at ease. Your comfort is always our priority.

What types of dental fillings are there?

At Titan Dental, we offer a range of filling options, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences. Understanding your choices can help you make an informed decision about your smile.

Direct Fillings

Direct fillings are applied and set in your tooth during a single appointment, no waiting required. These are an excellent option for smaller cavities and immediate repairs. Common direct filling materials include:

Composite resin: Tooth-colored and blends beautifully with your existing teeth, making it a popular choice for front and visible teeth.
Amalgam: The classic silver filling, known for its strength and durability, especially in back teeth where chewing pressure is greatest.
Glass ionomer: Another tooth-colored option, notable for releasing fluoride that can help protect your teeth from further decay.

Indirect Fillings

For more extensive repairs, indirect fillings are crafted outside your mouth, often in a dental lab, before being placed in your tooth. These are ideal when a tooth needs extra support but isn’t quite damaged enough for a crown. Indirect options include:

Inlays and onlays: Custom-shaped pieces that fit your tooth like puzzle pieces, providing a snug and strong solution.
Gold: The gold standard (pun intended!) for durability and longevity, ideal for those seeking a time-tested choice for molars.
Porcelain: Beautifully mimics natural tooth enamel, making it a go-to for a seamless, esthetic finish in visible areas.

Dr. Le will carefully discuss the best material for your unique situation, taking into account factors such as location, durability, and your personal preferences.

Does getting a filling hurt?

Your comfort is our top priority at Titan Dental. Most patients find that getting a dental filling is not painful, thanks to effective local anesthesia that numbs the area being treated. You may feel slight pressure or vibration during the procedure, but you shouldn’t feel pain. If you ever experience discomfort, simply let Dr. Le or a member of our team know. We are always ready to ensure you remain comfortable and relaxed throughout your visit.

What are the possible complications or risks of dental fillings?

While dental fillings are a safe, routine procedure at Titan Dental, it’s important to know that a few minor side effects may occur as your mouth adjusts. Most commonly, you might notice temporary sensitivity to hot or cold foods or mild soreness in the treated area. These symptoms are generally short-lived and resolve within a week or two.

Less frequently, additional complications may arise, such as:

Persistent tooth pain: If you experience a throbbing pain that doesn’t improve, it could indicate that tooth decay has affected the inner pulp. In these cases, further treatment such as a root canal may be needed to address the issue.
Discomfort when biting: Occasionally, a new filling might be slightly too high, causing pain when you bite down. This is easily remedied with a simple adjustment in our office.
Prolonged sensitivity: If temperature sensitivity persists and becomes severe, it may indicate nerve irritation or deeper tooth damage. Further evaluation may be necessary to ensure your long-term comfort and health.

At Titan Dental, Dr. Le and our team are always here to help. If you experience unusual or ongoing discomfort after your filling, give us a call so we can assess the area and provide relief. Your peace of mind and oral health are our top priorities.

When is it too late to get a tooth filling?

Timing is important when treating cavities. Dental fillings are effective for repairing minor to moderate decay confined to the outer layers of your tooth. However, if the cavity is left untreated and the decay spreads deep enough to reach the pulp, the tooth’s innermost tissue, a simple filling may no longer be sufficient.

At that stage, more advanced treatment such as a root canal is typically required to save the tooth. That’s why early detection and prompt care at Titan Dental are key for maintaining a healthy, pain-free smile.

How long does it take to recover after a dental filling procedure?

Most patients can return to their regular activities right after a dental filling, especially if sedation wasn’t used. Mild sensitivity or discomfort is common, but it usually fades quickly. If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil can help keep you comfortable.

You can eat and drink as usual once any numbness from anesthesia wears off, but it’s best to avoid chewing on the treated side for a few hours. Your tooth should feel back to normal within a day or two, allowing you to enjoy your restored smile with ease.

Can I eat after getting a filling?

Yes, you can eat and drink following your dental filling procedure. However, we recommend waiting until the anesthesia-induced numbness fully wears off. This simple precaution helps you avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. If you choose to have a snack before the numbness fades, take small bites and chew slowly on the opposite side of your mouth to help with comfort and safety. Your new filling is strong and ready for action, just be mindful while the area is still numb.

How can regular dental visits help prevent tooth decay?

Regular dental visits are crucial for preventing tooth decay. By coming in for routine checkups and professional cleanings, you allow Dr. Thuy B. Le and our Titan Dental team to catch early signs of decay before they become serious problems. Regular exams help us remove plaque buildup that even the best toothbrushes leave behind, while timely professional advice keeps your at-home care on track.

Think of your dental visits as an essential layer of protection, keeping your smile healthy, bright, and cavity-free for years to come

When should I call my dentist after getting a filling?

Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. After receiving a dental filling, most mild sensitivity or discomfort fades within a few days. However, it’s important to contact our office promptly if you notice:

Persistent or severe pain that doesn’t improve, even with over-the-counter remedies
Swelling in your face, gums, or jaw
Signs of infection, such as fever or chills

If your dental filling feels loose, cracks, or falls out, reach out right away so we can help restore your smile quickly and prevent further issues.

What are direct dental fillings?

Direct dental fillings are a straightforward way to repair cavities in a single visit, right here in our office. With this technique, Dr. Le places the filling material directly into your prepared tooth; there’s no need for temporaries or extra lab work.

The materials used for direct fillings include:

Amalgam: This time-tested, silver-colored option is a blend of metals known for its strength and durability.
Resin composites: These tooth-colored fillings blend beautifully with your natural teeth, offering a discreet and strong solution.
Glass ionomer: Another tooth-colored choice, glass ionomer fillings use a special type of glass powder that bonds to your tooth and releases small amounts of fluoride.

Direct fillings offer an efficient, effective way to restore the health and appearance of your teeth in just one appointment.

What materials are used in indirect dental fillings?

When it comes to indirect dental fillings, such as inlays and onlays, two of the most popular materials are gold and porcelain. Gold offers exceptional strength and longevity, making it ideal for withstanding years of chewing. On the other hand, porcelain inlays and onlays are carefully crafted to match the color and translucency of your natural teeth, blending in beautifully with your smile. Both materials are chosen for their durability and their ability to create a precise, comfortable fit tailored just for you.

What are indirect dental fillings?

Indirect dental fillings are a specialized solution for teeth that have experienced more extensive damage than a standard filling can handle, but don’t quite require a full dental crown. Unlike regular fillings that are shaped directly in your mouth, indirect fillings are created outside the mouth, usually in a dental lab, and then securely placed by your dentist.

Types of Indirect Fillings

You may hear your dentist mention inlays and onlays. Both are types of indirect fillings:

Inlays: Fit neatly within the grooves of your tooth.
Onlays: Cover a larger area, extending over one or more cusps (the pointed parts of your tooth).

What to Expect

Receiving an indirect filling typically involves two visits. The first appointment is for taking detailed impressions of your tooth. Then, after the custom filling is crafted to match your natural tooth structure, you return for placement. In some cases, advanced CAD/CAM technology can make this process even quicker, allowing for same-day placement right here at Titan Dental.

Durable, Natural-Looking Materials

We offer indirect fillings made from strong and attractive materials, such as:

Gold alloys: Known for their impressive durability and long lifespan.
Porcelain: Chosen for their natural appearance and ability to blend seamlessly with your smile.

Indirect dental fillings are an excellent choice for restoring both strength and esthetics to compromised teeth, helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

What are inlays and onlays, and when are they used?

At Titan Dental, preserving your natural teeth is always our top priority. Sometimes, though, a standard filling just isn’t quite enough, while a dental crown could be more than you need. That’s where inlays and onlays come in.

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth with more extensive damage, situations where a regular filling won’t provide enough support. However, the tooth is still stable enough that a crown is unnecessary. Crafted outside the mouth, usually in a dental lab, they are then securely bonded to your tooth by Dr. Thuy B. Le.

Inlays fit neatly within the grooves of your tooth, much like a tiny puzzle piece, without covering the cusps (the highest points).
Onlays are similar but cover one or more cusps of the tooth, offering a bit more reinforcement.

Our practice uses high-quality materials, such as porcelain or composite resin, to ensure your restoration blends beautifully with your natural smile. With state-of-the-art CAD/CAM technology, some inlays and onlays can even be completed in just one visit.

In short, if your tooth has significant decay or damage, but not enough to need a complete crown, an inlay or onlay may be the ideal choice for strength, longevity, and appearance.

Are amalgam (mercury-based) fillings safe?

At Titan Dental, your safety and peace of mind are always our highest priorities. One common question patients ask is whether silver (amalgam) fillings, those containing mercury, are safe.

Extensive research by leading dental and health organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), supports the safety of amalgam fillings for the vast majority of patients. These fillings have been used for decades thanks to their durability and effectiveness.

However, recent recommendations highlight that certain individuals may be more sensitive to mercury exposure and should consider alternative filling materials whenever possible. This may include:

Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant soon
Breastfeeding individuals and their infants
Children under the age of 6
People with kidney problems
Those with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease
Anyone with known sensitivities or allergies to mercury or the metals in amalgam fillings

If you fall into one of these groups, we’ll discuss all your restoration options and help you choose the best, safest material for your fillings.

It’s important to note that if you already have amalgam fillings that are in good condition and causing no issues, the current guidance does not recommend removing them, as doing so can sometimes increase exposure to mercury vapor.

Our goal at Titan Dental is to provide personalized care tailored to your health needs and preferences. If you have concerns about amalgam or any other type of dental filling, Dr. Thuy B. Le is here to answer your questions and help you make the best decision for your smile.

Should amalgam fillings be removed in higher-risk individuals?

If you’re in a group considered more vulnerable to mercury exposure, including pregnant women, those planning pregnancy, breastfeeding mothers, young children, individuals with certain neurological or kidney conditions, or anyone with a known sensitivity to mercury, you might wonder if your existing silver (amalgam) fillings should be removed.

According to current guidance from the FDA and leading dental organizations, removing well-functioning amalgam fillings is generally not recommended for higher-risk individuals. The process of taking out an old filling can actually release more mercury vapor, potentially leading to greater exposure than simply leaving the filling undisturbed.

If your amalgam filling is in good shape and causing no problems, the best approach is usually to leave it in place. Of course, if you notice damage, discomfort, or have concerns, let us know. Dr. Le will review your health history and discuss the safest options tailored to your needs, always prioritizing your comfort and well-being.

Who is at greater risk for health effects from mercury in amalgam fillings?

While amalgam fillings have been used safely for decades, some individuals may be more sensitive to mercury exposure from these restorations. At Titan Dental, your well-being is our top priority, so we are happy to discuss whether amalgam is right for you.

Those with a higher risk for potential health effects from mercury in amalgam include:

Expectant mothers and their developing babies
Individuals planning to become pregnant soon
Nursing mothers and their infants
Young children, particularly those under the age of six
People with certain neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease
Individuals with reduced kidney function
Anyone known to have an allergy or sensitivity to mercury or other materials used in amalgam

Your health matters to us. If you have questions about which type of filling is best for you or your family, Dr. Le and our team are happy to guide you through your options for safe, effective dental care.

What are other names for dental fillings?

Dental fillings go by several other names you might hear during your dental visit or while browsing oral health articles. Common alternatives include:

Tooth fillings
Cavity fillings
Dental restorations (a broader term that can also refer to inlays, onlays, bridges, or crowns)

Regardless of the terminology, all these names refer to the materials and procedures used to repair and restore teeth affected by decay or minor damage.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Why Choose Titan Dental?

When it comes to your oral health, choosing the right dental practice is essential. Here’s why patients trust Titan Dental:

Restore your teeth with high-quality dental fillings. Schedule an appointment today!

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Wed: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
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