Tooth decay is an unfortunate dental problem that most people will face at some point in their adult lives. It is commonly caused by plaque and tartar buildup. If you suffer from a tooth cavity, preserving the natural tooth will be the main goal. A dental filling is necessary to restore strength and health and prevent further damage to the tooth. Dr. Amy Marckese is a local dentist who offers dental fillings in Indianapolis, IN, for tooth decay patients.
What is a Dental Filling?
Dental fillings are part of a conservative treatment plan to preserve the natural tooth. They are used when a tooth is weakened because of cracks, chips, breaks, cavities, or other reasons. The filling is intended to not just restore strength but also protect the tooth from future damage or decay.
Patients no longer have to worry about unsightly, uncomfortable metal dental fillings. Today’s dental fillings are highly esthetic and virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. At the same time, these “white” dental fillings offer excellent long-term protection for teeth that are weak or damaged.
Dr. Markese uses tooth-colored dental fillings to achieve the most natural-looking and comfortable results for her patients. Dr. Marckese may recommend a composite resin or porcelain dental filling, depending on your condition. Dental fillings are just one of the general dentistry services Dr. Marckese provides to the public in Indianapolis, IN.
Our Patients Say It Best
I had a few fillings put in and generally I have a lot of anxiety at the dentist. At DentalSpa, everything from the paraffin hand dip and massage to the yummy smoothie at the end of my appointment made me feel better about being there. I had a great experience and would recommend them to anyone!
–Kate R., Indianapolis, IN
Dental Fillings in Indianapolis, IN
Dr. Markese will recommend a material for your dental filling based on the findings from your exam. She primarily uses resin and porcelain dental fillings.
Resin Dental Fillings
Resin dental fillings, commonly referred to as “white” fillings, can be matched and shaped to blend seamlessly with your smile. They are also nearly indistinguishable from the natural tooth. These types of fillings are made from a biocompatible composite resin applied directly to the tooth. They are mercury-free, highly durable, and decay—and stain-resistant.
Dr. Marckese typically uses resin dental fillings to repair teeth with minor decay or damage. Resin dental fillings are long-lasting but not permanent. We use them as part of a conservative treatment plan to protect the tooth from future damage.
Porcelain Dental Fillings
Porcelain dental fillings, or dental inlays or onlays, repair teeth when more significant damage or decay is present. They add additional strength to the tooth and are extremely long-lasting. Dr. Marckese will take an impression of the tooth and create a model for the laboratory, where the porcelain inlay/onlay will be fabricated. When properly cared for, porcelain fillings can be extremely long-lasting.
Replacing Metal Dental Fillings
Do you have old amalgam (metal) dental fillings that are impacting the appearance of your smile or breaking down and coming out? Do you believe you have an allergy or sensitivity to mercury or any of the other metals in dental amalgam, such as silver, tin, or copper? You can choose to have them replaced by Dr. Marckese.
Modern advances in cosmetic dentistry mean you no longer need to suffer from unsightly and uncomfortable silver/mercury fillings. Whether your motives are cosmetic or out of health or comfort concerns, we can easily remove metal dental fillings and replace them with more esthetic tooth-colored ones for a more comfortable and natural-looking restoration.
A dental crown may yield the best results for teeth with large metal fillings. The crown will add stability to the tooth and conceal any discoloration caused by the metal filling.
Dental Fillings FAQs
Each year, dentists around the country use dental fillings to treat cavities. If you have a cavity or need a filling, contact us to schedule an appointment. Our frequently asked questions section about dental fillings will help you learn more about the procedure and what to expect.
How do I know if I need a filling?
Dental fillings are critical treatment for cavities, offering a simple and effective solution. You could have a cavity if you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity, especially without any visible signs of injury. Cavities can also be asymptomatic, meaning you might not feel any pain, so visiting your dentist twice a year is crucial.
During your dental check-up, your dentist will examine your teeth and use specialized tools to detect cavities. They might also take X-rays to identify any hidden decay.
Are composite fillings better than amalgam fillings?
When it comes to dental fillings, composite fillings are often the ideal choice for cosmetic reasons. The advantage of composite fillings is how natural they look they also provide a strong and durable restoration. Unlike amalgam fillings, which are silver in color and very noticeable, a composite filling will match the color of your natural teeth. This makes them virtually invisible, giving you a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
However, amalgam fillings are highly durable and can withstand strong chewing forces. In some cases, we will suggest this type of filing for back teeth. Amalgam fillings are also more affordable than composite fillings.
What do I do if I have a broken or missing dental filling?
If you have lost or broken a dental filling, it is important not to try to reattach the filling. Do not use the affected tooth, as this can cause pain and damage. Dr. Marckese prioritizes treating dental emergencies as quickly as possible. Please contact our Indianapolis dentist office as soon as possible to schedule emergency treatment.
How long does it take for tooth fillings to settle?
After getting a tooth filling, it’s vital to give it some time to settle and cure properly. In most cases, a filling takes about 24 hours to fully cure and become strong. During this time, it’s best to avoid chewing on the tooth to prevent any discomfort or potential damage to the filling.
You also want to wait until the numbness in your mouth wears off before eating anything. This is because you might bite your cheek or tongue by accident. So, it’s a good idea to wait a little while and let the filling settle before eating solid foods again.
How many times can a dentist replace a tooth filling?
Your dentist can replace a tooth filling multiple times throughout your life. However, there must be enough healthy tooth structure left to hold the filing in place. Dentists can repair and replace fillings as needed to maintain the health and integrity of your teeth.
However, it’s crucial to note that always replacing fillings can weaken the tooth over time. Each time your dentists replaces the filling, they must remove a bit more of the healthy tooth structure. Maintaining good dental health will prevent the need for filling replacements.
How many fillings can you get at once?
It is normal for a dentist to perform multiple dental fillings in one appointment. The exact number depends on various factors, such as the size and location of the cavities. We always aim to address as many fillings as we can in a single visit to minimize the number of appointments you will have.
However, extensive treatment plans might require multiple visits. Our dental team prefers to only numb one side of mouth at a time for patient comfort. If you have multiple cavities on both sides of your mouth, we will likely suggest two appointments.
