Fillings

Fillings are effective and affordable treatments that can repair tooth decay, chips, and minor damage to your smile. At WA Dental in Federal Way, Washington, the team of experienced family and general dentists offers a full spectrum of filling materials, such as composite resin, amalgam, and ceramics, to preserve tooth health. Call the dental clinic today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about fillings.

What are fillings?

Fillings are dental restorations that restore damaged or decayed teeth to their optimal function and appearance. The materials that fillings use are less invasive and require less preparation than restorations such as dental crowns. 

The most common use for fillings is repairing decayed teeth. When your tooth becomes decayed, it forms a small hole called a cavity. The cavity continues to expand without treatment. To prevent cavities from spreading, the team at WA Dental removes the decayed portion of the tooth and places a filling.

Are there different types of fillings?

WA Dental offers multiple kinds of fillings, including:

Amalgam

Amalgam fillings include silver, tin, zinc, copper, and mercury. Also called silver fillings, these restorations traditionally treat cavities in the back of the mouth, where they can remain inconspicuous. Amalgam fillings are durable treatments that can last for ten years or longer with proper care.

Composite resin

Made with plastic and fine glass particles, composite resin fillings are ideal for teeth in the front of your mouth, as they match their natural shade. Composite fillings can also bond directly to your teeth, so the team doesn’t have to remove much of your natural tooth structure. With ongoing care, these fillings can last for five years or more.

Ceramic

Ceramic fillings use tooth-colored materials to repair areas of decay. This material is more resistant to stains and abrasion than composite resin but is more likely to crack. 

Cast gold

Cast gold fillings include metal alloys that withstand chewing in the back of the mouth. They last longer than any other filling but cost more because their materials don’t corrode over time.

Why might I need fillings?

The team may recommend fillings to protect and restore your tooth function if you have:

• Tooth decay
• Chipped teeth
• Cracked teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Discolored teeth

Fillings also help protect teeth after root canal therapy. Placing a filling ensures bacteria can’t penetrate the vulnerable portion of your tooth after treatment.

How do I care for fillings?

Caring for your fillings can help preserve these restorations for over a decade. The team may recommend:

• Brushing and flossing twice a day
• Using a fluoride toothpaste
• Visiting for teeth cleanings twice a year
• Limiting your sugar intake

You should also contact your dentist immediately if your filling chips, cracks, or loosens.

Call WA Dental today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about fillings.