Dental Fillings

Tooth decay develops when acids produced by plaque bacteria wear down enamel. Early enamel damage can sometimes be reversed, but once a physical cavity forms, brushing alone cannot rebuild the missing tooth structure. Small chips and worn areas may also need repair.

Watch for changes such as these:

• Sensitivity when you eat something sweet, cold, or hot.
• Food catching repeatedly in the same spot.
• A rough edge or a visible hole in your tooth.
• Pain when you bite down or release pressure.

These signs don’t always mean you have a cavity. Cracks, gum problems, and other dental conditions can cause similar symptoms. That’s why an examination matters before deciding on treatment.

Don’t wait for pain to become severe. Contact our office promptly if you notice swelling or worsening discomfort.

Your visit starts with a conversation about your symptoms. Tell us when they began, what triggers them, and whether the discomfort comes and goes. Dr. Dhawan examines the affected tooth and checks nearby teeth for possible problems.

When needed, dental X-rays help us evaluate areas that aren’t visible during a routine examination.

The size and location of the damage guide our recommendation. A small cavity may need a straightforward filling, while a tooth with extensive damage or weakened structure may benefit from a dental crown. If decay reaches the inner tissue of the tooth, additional treatment may be necessary.

Every tooth is different. We’ll explain what we find, review your options, and help you understand which approach makes sense for your dental health.

Getting a dental filling is a common procedure, but knowing what to expect can make your appointment feel more manageable.

We usually begin by numbing the area around your tooth. Tell us if you feel nervous or have had trouble getting numb before. We want to understand your concerns so we can address them.

During treatment, you may notice pressure or vibration. If you feel pain, let us know right away.

Once the area is numb, we remove the decay and prepare the remaining tooth for the filling. We then place the filling material and shape the repair to restore the tooth’s natural contours. For tooth-colored composite fillings, dentists typically use a curing light to harden the material.

Finally, we check how your upper and lower teeth meet when you bite. Any high spots can be adjusted, and the surface is smoothed for comfort.

Appointment length depends on the tooth being treated, the filling material, and the extent of the damage.

Not every filling material works equally well for every tooth. The location of the cavity, the amount of remaining tooth structure, and the forces placed on the tooth all influence the decision.

Tooth-colored composite fillings blend with nearby enamel, making them a less noticeable option for many repairs. Other materials may be appropriate depending on the tooth’s condition and the size of the restoration.

Appearance matters, but function comes first. Your filling needs to support comfortable chewing and allow you to clean your teeth effectively.

No filling material lasts forever, and each has benefits and limitations. Dr. Dhawan considers your tooth’s remaining strength when recommending a restoration.

We’ll discuss the available options and explain the tradeoffs so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Your mouth may remain numb for a few hours after your appointment. Avoid chewing until normal feeling returns to reduce the chance of accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Follow our instructions about eating after your specific filling material has been placed.

Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure can occur after a filling. This often improves over the following days or weeks as your tooth settles.

Contact our office if sensitivity worsens, doesn’t improve, or interrupts your sleep. You should also let us know if your bite feels uneven. A filling that feels too high may need a simple adjustment.

You can help protect your restoration with a few daily habits:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
• Clean between your teeth every day.
• Avoid chewing ice or biting hard objects.
• Keep regular dental checkups so we can monitor your teeth and existing restorations.

Remember that a repaired tooth can still develop new decay. Good oral hygiene and routine dental visits help protect both your filling and the surrounding natural tooth structure.

Can a cavity heal without a filling?

Very early tooth decay may sometimes be stopped or reversed with fluoride and improved oral hygiene. However, once a physical hole develops in the tooth, the missing structure cannot grow back on its own. A dental examination can help determine whether a filling or another treatment is necessary.

Does getting a dental filling hurt?

Dentists typically use a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area before placing a filling. You may feel some pressure or vibration during the procedure, but you shouldn’t have to ignore pain. Let us know if you’re uncomfortable so we can address it.

How long do dental fillings last?

Dental fillings can last for years, but their lifespan depends on the material, size, location, and daily wear. Teeth grinding, oral hygiene habits, and new decay can also affect how long a restoration lasts. Regular dental checkups help us monitor your fillings and identify potential problems.

A small repair today may help prevent more extensive treatment later. Waiting for stronger symptoms can allow decay to spread, and some cavities don’t cause noticeable pain until the damage becomes more advanced.

At Polaris Dentistry, we focus on understanding the problem before recommending a solution. Dr. Shilpa Dhawan will examine your tooth, explain what she finds, and help you understand your treatment options.

If you think you need a dental filling in Sachse, TX, call Polaris Dentistry today to schedule your appointment. Let us help you protect your natural teeth and get back to chewing comfortably.