Everything You Need to Know About Dental Fillings

Cavities can sneak up on anyone—but fixing them doesn’t have to be a hassle. With dental fillings in Fountain Valley, you can restore your tooth’s health fast and get back to smiling. In this guide, We’ll break down everything you need to know, from types of fillings to how long they last. Let’s make dental visits less confusing.

1. What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings help fix small holes in your teeth caused by decay. If you’ve ever had a toothache that wouldn’t go away or noticed a dark spot on your tooth, chances are, you needed a filling. Here’s how it works:

• Your dentist gets rid of the decayed part of the tooth.
• Then, they clean the area.
• Finally, they fill the space with a material that seals the tooth and brings it back to shape.

It’s a simple fix that stops decay from spreading further. And it can save your teeth from more serious problems later.

2. Types of Dental Fillings

You’ve got choices. Not all fillings are the same, and your dentist in Fountain Valley, CA, will help you pick the one that’s right for your situation. Let’s break them down:

Composite Resin

• Tooth-colored, blends well
• Good for small to medium cavities
• Bonds directly to the tooth
• It might not last as long on large chewing surfaces

Amalgam

• Silver-colored and strong
• Durable under heavy chewing
• More visible, often used on back teeth
• Contains mercury (though in safe amounts)

Gold

• Strong and long-lasting
• Doesn’t corrode
• Costly and noticeable

Porcelain

• Matches tooth color
• Resists staining
• More brittle than gold

Glass Ionomer

• Releases fluoride over time
• Not as durable
• Often used on baby teeth or near the gum line

Not sure which one’s best for you? Talk it out with your dentist—we’ll guide you based on where the cavity is, how big it is, and what matters most to you.

3. When Do You Need a Dental Filling?

Sometimes, you can spot the signs. Other times, you need your dentist to catch them early during a routine check-up.

Look out for:

• Sharp or dull pain while chewing
• Sudden sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• A dark spot or hole in your tooth
• Food getting stuck in the same spot often

Even a white spot on your enamel can be an early sign that something’s up. Catching these signs early means easier treatment and less trouble down the road.

4. How the Filling Procedure Works

Getting a filling doesn’t have to feel scary. Honestly, most of the time, it’s over before you know it. Here’s how it usually goes:

1. First, your dentist numbs the area so you won’t feel pain.
2. Then, they lightly remove the decayed part of the tooth.
3. They clean the area to make sure no bacteria are left behind.
4. The filling material goes in and is shaped to match your tooth.
5. Once it hardens, they check your bite and make adjustments if needed.

It’s quick and effective, and you can go back to your day. Some people even get it done on their lunch break.

5. How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?

Fillings aren’t forever, but they do a good job for a while—especially with care. Here’s a general idea:

• Composite resin: 5 to 10 years
• Amalgam: 10 to 15 years
• Gold: 15 to 30 years
• Porcelain: About 10 to 15 years
• Glass ionomer: Usually 5 years or less

What affects how long they last?

• What you eat
• How well you brush and floss
• Clenching or grinding your teeth
• How big the filling is

Don’t worry—your dentist will keep an eye on them during your cleanings and let you know if something needs to be replaced.

6. Caring for Your Dental Fillings

Once you get a filling, you want it to last as long as possible. Good news—there’s a lot you can do to help with that.

Keep it simple:

• Brush twice a day
• Floss daily to prevent food from sticking
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Skip biting hard stuff like ice or pens
• Go easy on chewy or sticky treats

And don’t skip your dental visits. They’re key in catching any small issues before they turn into big ones. Got a filling that feels off? Loose? Sensitive? Call a dentist near you right away. A quick fix now can salvage you from a bigger problem later.

Final Thoughts

Dental fillings are nothing to fear—they’re one of the easiest ways to keep your teeth strong and pain-free. Knowing what they are, when you need one, and how to care for them gives you an edge in keeping your smile in shape. At Ramona Dentistry & Sleep Apnea, we’re always here to help with honest answers and gentle care. Don’t wait for pain to strike. Keep up with your check-ups, and your teeth will thank you.