Tooth Fillings and Sealants
Safeguard your oral health with our tooth fillings and dental sealants at Galleria Dental. We provide various solutions to repair damaged teeth and prevent future decay, ensuring your teeth remain healthy and strong.
Tooth Fillings and Sealants in Charlotte, NC
Dental Filling for Restoration
Cavity fillings are essential for repairing teeth that have decay. At Galleria Dental, our process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area thoroughly and then filling it with a suitable material to restore the tooth’s shape and function. Additionally, tooth fillings are effective for fixing chipped teeth, closing gaps and repairing broken teeth.
Types of Fillings
We offer two types of filling materials to cater to different needs and preferences:
- Composite fillings are quick and efficient, using material that blends with your tooth color.
- Amalgam (silver) fillings are less common now but still useful for back teeth because they are very durable
Dental Sealants for Prevention
Dental sealants, also known as preventive resin restoration, provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay. We apply a thin resin coating to the chewing surfaces of your teeth. The resin bonds quickly and effectively, sealing grooves and acting as a barrier against decay.
Benefits of Sealants
- Effective decay prevention: Dental sealants can reduce the risk of tooth decay by 80%, acting as a shield to protect vulnerable areas.
- Long-lasting protection: With proper maintenance, sealants can last up to 10 years, though you’ll need regular check-ups to look for any signs of chipping or wear.
- Ideal for children and teens: Sealants significantly reduce the likelihood of cavities, especially for children and teens ages 6–14.
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What does a cavity look like?
A cavity typically appears as a small hole or pit on the surface of a tooth. It can range in color from white to dark brown or black, depending on the severity and progression of the decay. Early stages of a cavity may not be visible to the naked eye, but as the decay worsens, it can become more noticeable. Sometimes, cavities can also cause visible damage such as chipping or cracking of the tooth.
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Does getting a cavity filled hurt?
For fillings, we ensure the area is well-numbed, so the procedure should be pain-free. Some sensitivity might occur for a few days afterward, which you can alleviate with over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen (Advil).
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How do you relieve tooth pain after a filling?
After a filling, avoid chewing on the numb side of your mouth until the numbness subsides. Rinsing with warm salt water can help heal your gums. You may feel some residual filling material or bonding debris, which you can rinse away. If it’s hard to floss immediately after your filling, it should improve within 48 hours. If not, contact our office.
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How long does it take to fill a cavity?
Filling a cavity usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and location of the cavity. The procedure starts with numbing the area around the tooth to ensure comfort. Dr. Pollack then removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans the area thoroughly and applies the filling material. Finally, we shape and polish the filling to restore the tooth’s natural appearance and function.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about fillings and sealants or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
