Fillings in Queen Creek, AZ

Fillings in Queen Creek, AZ

Thanks to the many advancements made in modern dentistry, including those used by Dr. Alexander at Alexander Family Dental, patients can obtain a dental filling without worrying about old-school invasive techniques that were once used.

Wondering if You Need a Dental Filling?

One of the first symptoms that you may notice at home, signaling the need for a dental filling near you, is a sharp or throbbing pain around a specific tooth. Additionally, you may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures when you eat or drink, as well as pain when you bite down on certain foods. From a visual perspective, you may notice a dark spot on your tooth or become aware of dental floss tearing around a particular tooth when used.

Another tell-tale sign that you need a dental filling is if you’ve lost or broken a filling that had previously been placed in a tooth or if you notice a rough area of your tooth that was not present before. In many instances, Dr. Alexander will identify the tooth that needs a filling through a visual examination only, but there may be times when a dental x-ray is necessary.

Tooth-Colored Fillings Near You

It’s not uncommon for some patients to avoid visiting their dentist for a dental filling because they don’t want metal in their mouth. Alexander Family Dental provides a broad suite of dental filling materials, including tooth-colored fillings that will color-match the tooth receiving treatment. That way, when you laugh, talk, or eat, no one will notice anything except the natural color of your teeth – including the one that received the filling!

Make an Appointment Today

A key takeaway regarding dental fillings is that they are always more comfortable and less complicated to treat when diagnosed early. Rather than ignoring what you suspect may be a cavity, we invite you to make an appointment with Alexander Family Dental for early treatment. That way, Dr. Alexander can use less invasive techniques when saving your tooth and provide gentle dentistry that has made Alexander Family Dental one of Queen Creek, AZ’s top-rated practices.

FAQ's

What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are utilized to preserve teeth that have been damaged by cavities or decay. The filling material, which can be prepared from a wide variety of materials which include composite resin, bioactive resin, or amalgam, is placed into the cavity to preserve the tooth's shape and function.
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
If you feel symptoms like tooth pain, sensitivity to sweets or cold, or visible cavities in your teeth, it may be time for a dental filling. During a routine exam, your dentist at Alexander Family Dental will also check for signs of decay and recommend fillings if necessary. In some cases, X-Rays will be needed to diagnose.
What are the different types of dental fillings?

There are many types of dental fillings, including:

  • Amalgam fillings Made up from a mixture of metals, they are durable and long-lasting.
  • Composite fillings: Made from tooth-colored resin, they blend well with natural teeth.
  • Bioactive resin: Made from composite material like resin matrix, bioactive glass particles and ionomer components, this filling not only repairs the tooth but also interacts positively with surrounding tissues.
How is a dental filling placed?
Placing a dental filling is a relatively quick and simple process. First, your dentist will numb the site surrounding the affected tooth to ensure you’re comfortable. Then, the decayed part of the tooth is removed, and the filling material is placed to restore the tooth's shape. The filling is then hardened, and the tooth is polished.
Are dental fillings painful?
Most patients find the process of getting a filling to be relatively painless. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. After that, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, but this typically fades within a few days.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifetime of a dental filling depends on the material used and the site of the filling. Amalgam fillings can last 10–15 years, while composite fillings generally last around 5–10 years.
Can a dental filling fall out?
While dental fillings are designed to stay in place, they can sometimes become loose or fall out due to wear and tear or a new cavity forming (recurrent decay), especially if the filling was placed many years ago. If a filling falls out, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth.
Can dental fillings be replaced?
Yes, dental fillings can be replaced if they become worn out, loose, or damaged. Your dentist will evaluate the filling and determine if replacement is necessary. In some cases, a filling may need to be replaced with a larger filling or even a crown if the tooth is extremely decayed or damaged. Fillings are checked during routine preventive care appointment for need of replacement.
Are there alternatives to dental fillings?
For some dental issues, alternatives to fillings may include dental crowns, inlays, or onlays. These options are used if the damage to the tooth is too costly for a simple filling. Your dentist will discuss the best treatment alternatives based on the severity of the decay.
How can I prevent the need for dental fillings?
Good oral hygiene practices are a must for preventing cavities and the need for fillings. Brushing twice everyday with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting Alexander Family Dental for regular check-ups and clean-ups can help keep your teeth healthy and free from decay. Avoid chewing ice or other hard objects, as they can cause fillings to break or become loose. Limiting sugar intake and carbonated beverages can decrease the chance of a new cavity forming under your existing fillings.
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