Dental Fillings in North Hollywood, CA
Whether you have a chipped tooth or multiple decayed teeth, we are ready to fix all sorts of dental problems with restorative fillings. Contact our team at (818) 792 4500 to book an appointment with our expert dentists today!
Purpose of Dental Fillings
When the bacteria in your mouth invade your tooth structure, they can destroy the protective layers of your teeth, forming a cavity. As a cavity increases in size, it progressively weakens the structure of your tooth, potentially reaching a point where your tooth cannot be salvaged. To mitigate such complications and reinforce compromised teeth, our North Hollywood, CA-based practice provides restorative dental fillings. These restorations fill in the cavities in your teeth and protect them from further damage. Apart from dental caries, we also provide dental restorations for the following causes:
- Chipped teeth
- Broken, cracked, or damaged teeth
- Minor spaces between teeth
- Worn-out or eroded tooth surfaces
- Replacement of old dental fillings
Process of Dental Fillings in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA
During your initial visit, our team will perform a preliminary exam to identify your dental needs. We will also take dental x-rays to understand the extent of tooth damage. If dental fillings are the best treatment option, we will guide you through the process beforehand. Our dentists will also select a dental filling that fits your dental needs. Among many alternatives, such as metal fillings, glass ionomer cements (GIC), and ceramic restorations, composite fillings are the most preferred ones. It is because they resemble the natural color of your teeth and offer much more durability.
The treatment process starts with injecting a local anesthetic near the defective tooth. When the area is numb, we will use a dental drill to clean the infected area and debride your tooth. Once tooth prep is complete, we will place the dental filling and mold it to match the natural structure of your teeth. The final steps include finishing and polishing for a smooth, shiny surface without any rough edges. After completion, our dental team will give you the necessary guidelines to care for your dental restorations so that they last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do tooth-colored fillings usually last?
Composite fillings generally last between 7 and 10 years. To make them last, just brush twice a day, floss daily, and come see us in North Hollywood twice a year for your regular cleaning.
Can a composite filling fix a chipped front tooth?
Yes, we use tooth-colored resin to fix minor chips, cracks, or gaps. We shape and polish the material right here so it matches your other teeth and blends in naturally.
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
Common signs include a mild ache when you bite down, a quick flash of pain from cold drinks, or food constantly catching on a sharp edge. We check for these spots during your normal checkup.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with tooth-colored composite?
Yes, we routinely swap out old, dark metal fillings for white composite resin. We can safely remove the silver and bond a new filling that matches your smile perfectly.
Can I eat immediately after getting a dental filling?
White fillings harden completely under our curing light, so you can eat right away. Just wait until the numbing wears off so you don’t accidentally bite your tongue or cheek.
Do white fillings stain over time?
Composite resin can pick up slight stains over the years from coffee, tea, or red wine. Routine brushing at home and professional cleanings keep them looking bright and clean.