Your Trusted Dental Fillings Expert in Federal Way WA

If you’re dealing with tooth decay or damage, dental fillings can be a simple yet powerful solution. At Marine Hills Dentistry, we’re committed to restoring and protecting your smile with our high-quality dental fillings in Federal Way WA. But what exactly are dental fillings, and why might you need one? Here’s everything you should know.

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What Are Dental Fillings in Federal Way WA?

Dental fillings are materials that fill cavities caused by decay or repair of damaged tooth areas. Think of a filling as a shield, protecting and restoring the function of your teeth. Modern fillings not only strengthen but also blend in with your natural tooth color.

White or composite fillings are restorative materials that help repair fractures, cracks, or tooth decay. They are fabricated from a mixture of composite resins and ceramics and are designed to match your tooth color perfectly. Composite fillings can also be used to change the shape and size of your teeth and protect them from further damage.

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Why Choose Dental Fillings?

Decayed or damaged teeth can lead to discomfort and other complications if untreated. Composite fillings have several benefits, including:

• Aesthetics - Composite fillings resemble your natural teeth since their shade can be carefully blended for a seamless effect. This makes them a perfect choice for front teeth which would otherwise look very unattractive with a metal filling.
• Stability - A composite filling also requires very little of the enamel structure to be removed for its placement. As a result, more of your natural tooth is preserved. Composite fillings bond quickly with the impaired tooth and provide additional stability for a tooth that has already been weakened by decay.
• Insulation - Composite fillings are not affected by temperature variations, unlike metal fillings which tend to contract and expand. This quality protects your tooth from cracks or fractures.
• Versatility - Composite resin fillings are very versatile and can also be used to repair teeth that are chipped, broken, or badly worn.
• Free From Metal - Composite fillings do not contain any toxic metal and are considered safe for the body.

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How Is a Composite Filling Placed?

The procedure for placing a composite filling is quick and straightforward. Dr. Dennis Hahn will first numb the area around the affected tooth by administering local anesthesia to make you comfortable. A dental drill is employed to open the cavity or damaged part of the tooth, and care is taken to ensure only a minimal amount of tooth structure is disturbed. This makes the placement of the composite resin easier.

After removing the affected tissue and cleaning the area, we will then apply the composite resin and pack the white filling onto the tooth. This resin material bonds with the tooth enamel and hardens quickly to form a protective cover. Finally, we will shape and polish the surface of the filling for a natural-looking result.

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What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure

Filling procedures are straightforward. Here’s how it works:

• Examination and Preparation: We examine the tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the decay.
• Anesthesia: The area around the affected tooth is numbed to ensure a pain-free experience.
• Decay Removal: The decayed part of the tooth is removed, creating space for the filling material.
• Filling Placement: The chosen filling material is carefully applied, shaped, and polished for comfort and appearance.

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Benefits of Dental Fillings

Fillings don’t just restore your tooth; they improve overall dental health. Here are some key advantages:

• Long-Lasting: Quality fillings can last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the material.
• Reduced Sensitivity: Fillings seal the tooth, helping reduce sensitivity to hot and cold.
• Improved Strength: By reinforcing the tooth structure, fillings prevent breakage and maintain function.

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Are Dental Fillings Safe?

At Marine Hills Dentistry, we prioritize your health and safety. Dental amalgam fillings, which contain mercury, have been used safely for decades. The FDA and ADA affirm that amalgam fillings are safe for most patients, though we may recommend alternative materials for certain people, such as young children or those with specific health conditions.

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Post-Filling Care Tips

Once your filling is placed, there are simple steps you can take to ensure it lasts:

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods Initially: This will help your filling set properly.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly helps prevent future decay.
• Routine Check-Ups: We recommend bi-annual visits to monitor your fillings and overall dental health.

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Common Concerns About Dental Fillings

1. Will Getting a Filling Hurt?
   Not at all. With modern anesthesia techniques, filling procedures are virtually painless.
2. How Long Does a Filling Take?
   Most fillings can be completed in just one visit. Complex or indirect fillings, like porcelain inlays, may require two appointments.
3. How Much Do Fillings Cost?
   Filling costs vary depending on the material. We offer several options to fit different budgets and can discuss financing options if needed.
4. What if I Have a Reaction to Metal Fillings?
   Although rare, some people may have metal sensitivities. We offer composite or porcelain options for patients with such concerns.

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When to Consider Getting a Filling

Experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or noticing a small hole in your tooth? These are signs you may need a filling. Addressing decay early prevents it from worsening and saves you from needing more invasive treatments.

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Schedule Your Appointment at Marine Hills Dentistry Today

If you are suffering from a toothache or sensitivity due to cavities, visit our office or give us a call today. Whether it’s your first filling or you’re looking for a replacement, we’re here to help. Call us to schedule an appointment and let us help you achieve lasting dental health.