Don’t Let Cavities Go Untreated
Cavities are more than just minor inconveniences; they’re the start of progressive tooth decay that can lead to serious dental issues without proper treatment. Modern dental fillings offer a simple, effective solution to halt decay progression and restore your teeth’s natural strength and appearance.
At Petrie Advanced Dental, our Tacoma, WA, dentist specializes in state-of-the-art dental fillings that eliminate discomfort while preventing the complications of untreated cavities. Ready to protect your smile? Contact our Tacoma dental office today at (253) 761-5422 to schedule your appointment.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are essential dental restorations that repair and strengthen teeth affected by decay or damage. When bacteria create a cavity in your tooth enamel, a dental filling seals the decayed portion, preventing further decay and restoring normal function. These restorations not only repair existing teeth but also help maintain your oral health for years to come.
With professional dental fillings, our experienced dentist helps patients by:
- Eliminating decay-causing bacteria and restoring the structural integrity of damaged teeth
- Providing immediate relief from tooth sensitivity and pain associated with cavities
- Enhancing the natural appearance of teeth with closely matched filling materials
- Preserving your smile’s function and aesthetics with long-lasting dental restorations
Types of Dental Filling Materials in Tacoma
Modern dentistry offers several types of filling materials, each with unique benefits. At our Tacoma dental office, we provide:
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them ideal for visible areas like front teeth. Made from durable composite resin, these fillings bond directly to your tooth structure and can be precisely color-matched to your existing teeth. While requiring replacement every five to 10 years, they offer superior aesthetics approved by the American Dental Association.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also known as traditional silver fillings, have stood the test of time due to their exceptional durability, particularly for back teeth that handle intense chewing forces. Composed of silver, tin, copper, and other metals, amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years with proper care. While more noticeable than tooth-colored options, their strength makes them a practical choice for molars.
Ceramic Fillings
For patients seeking premium, long-lasting restorations, ceramic fillings offer unmatched aesthetics and durability. These custom-created restorations are stain-resistant and can last up to 15 years. Created in a dental laboratory for a perfect fit, ceramic fillings deliver both strength and beauty.
Gold Fillings
Gold fillings remain the gold standard for durability, often lasting 20+ years. These custom fillings, while more expensive initially, offer exceptional value through their longevity and biocompatibility. Many dentists consider gold fillings the most durable option available.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Perfect for children and areas near the gum line, glass ionomer fillings release fluoride over time, actively fighting decay-causing bacteria. This makes them particularly valuable for patients at higher risk for cavities. Though less durable than other options, their preventive benefits make them an excellent choice in specific situations.
Key Benefits of Modern Dental Fillings
Today’s dental fillings offer significant advantages for your oral health:
- Complete Decay Removal: Eliminates harmful bacteria to stop decay progression
- Tooth Preservation: Saves your natural tooth structure and prevents extraction
- Restored Function: Returns your ability to chew and speak without discomfort
- Immediate Pain Relief: Addresses sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Tooth-colored options keep your smile looking natural
- Exceptional Durability: Modern materials can last 5-20+ years with proper care
- Single-Visit Convenience: Most fillings can be completed in one office visit
- Minimal Sensitivity: Advanced techniques reduce post-treatment discomfort
- Fracture Prevention: Strengthens weakened teeth to prevent future damage
- Cost-Effective Treatment: More affordable than crowns or root canal therapy
Do You Need Dental Fillings in Tacoma?
Our Tacoma dentist determines your need for dental fillings through a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
- Digital Cavity Detection: Advanced technology identifies decay even before it’s visible to the naked eye
- Tooth Structure Assessment: Determining if enough healthy tooth structure remains to support a filling
- Health History Review: Considering any medical conditions that might affect treatment
- Material Compatibility: Checking for allergies or sensitivities to filling materials
- Bite Analysis: Ensuring your newly filled tooth will function properly with other teeth
- Aesthetic Considerations: Discussing your preferences for natural-looking restorations
- Insurance Coverage: Reviewing your dental insurance benefits for filling procedures
- Alternative Treatment Options: Exploring other solutions like indirect fillings when appropriate
The Dental Filling Process at Petrie Advanced Dental
When you visit our Tacoma dental office for a filling, you’ll experience a comfortable, efficient dental filling process:
- Comfortable Preparation: We begin by administering local anesthesia and may offer a desensitizing agent for maximum comfort.
- Precision Decay Removal: Dr. Arvind Petrie uses advanced instruments to gently remove the decayed portion of your tooth, preserving as much healthy structure as possible.
- Expert Cavity Preparation: The treatment area is carefully shaped to create the ideal space for your chosen filling material.
- Advanced Material Placement: Your selected filling material is meticulously placed into the prepared cavity and shaped to restore your tooth’s natural contours.
- Special Light Curing: For composite fillings, a special light hardens the material in seconds, bonding it firmly to your tooth.
- Bite Adjustment: Your bite is checked and adjusted to ensure your filled tooth works harmoniously with other teeth.
- Final Polishing: The restoration is smoothed and polished, leaving you with a natural feel and appearance.
The result is a beautifully restored tooth that looks natural, feels comfortable, and protects against further decay, helping you maintain optimal oral health. We’ll provide instructions on how to care for your new fillings after the procedure.
How Much Do Dental Fillings in Tacoma, WA?
The cost of dental fillings in Tacoma typically ranges from $50 to $250 per tooth, depending on several factors:
- Type of filling material (composite, amalgam, ceramic, or gold)
- Size and location of the cavity
- Number of tooth surfaces requiring treatment
- Any additional procedures needed
Most dental insurance plans cover 80% of amalgam fillings and 60-80% of composite fillings after your deductible. Our Tacoma dental office will help verify your coverage and discuss payment options to make your treatment affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dental fillings hurt?
With modern local anesthesia and gentle techniques, the filling process is virtually painless. Your dentist will ensure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. Some patients experience minor sensitivity a few days afterward, which typically resolves quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of your dental filling depends on several factors:
- Amalgam fillings: 10-15 years
- Composite fillings: 5-10 years
- Ceramic fillings: 10-15 years
- Gold fillings: 20+ years
Regular dental check-ups help monitor your fillings and ensure timely replacement when needed.
Can I eat normally with a new filling?
Yes! After the anesthesia wears off, you can eat normally. With tooth-colored composite fillings, it’s best to avoid foods and beverages that cause staining (coffee, red wine, etc.) for the first 48 hours as the material fully sets.
How can I prevent needing fillings in the future?
Maintain excellent oral hygiene with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, limit sugary foods and drinks, use fluoride toothpaste, rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash, and visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and examinations.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Fillings in Tacoma!
Don’t let tooth decay compromise your smile and oral health. At Petrie Advanced Dental, we provide comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing dental fillings that protect your teeth and restore your confident smile.
Schedule your appointment today by calling our Tacoma dental office at (253) 761-5422, and take the first step toward optimal dental health. We proudly serve patients throughout Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup, Federal Way, Gig Harbor, and University Place. Your beautiful, healthy smile starts with proper dental care. Let our expert team help you maintain it for life!
