Restore and Protect Your Smile with Natural-Looking Results
Cavities and minor tooth damage are common, but they don’t have to compromise your smile or oral health. At Scottsdale Elite Dentistry, we offer Dental Fillings designed to repair tooth decay, restore strength, and maintain the natural appearance of your teeth. Using modern, tooth-colored materials, we help patients protect their smiles comfortably and effectively.
Dental fillings are one of the most common and important restorative treatments in general dentistry—helping stop decay and prevent further damage.
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What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth affected by decay, cracks, or minor damage. After removing the damaged portion of the tooth, the filling material is placed to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function.
At Scottsdale Elite Dentistry, we primarily use tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a clean, aesthetic result.
Why Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Traditional silver (amalgam) fillings are durable but noticeable. Tooth-colored composite fillings offer several advantages:
- Natural appearance that blends with your smile
- Strong, durable material suitable for most teeth
- Less removal of healthy tooth structure
- No mercury content
- Improved bonding to the tooth
Composite fillings restore both function and appearance, making them the preferred choice for many patients.
Signs You May Need a Dental Filling
You may need a filling if you experience:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Toothache or pain when chewing
- Visible holes or dark spots on a tooth
- Rough or chipped areas
- Food frequently getting stuck between teeth
Routine dental exams help detect cavities early—often before symptoms appear.
The Dental Filling Process
Getting a dental filling at Scottsdale Elite Dentistry is a straightforward and comfortable process.
Examination & Diagnosis
We begin by examining your teeth and using digital X-rays if needed to identify decay or damage.
Removal of Decay
The affected area is carefully cleaned and prepared while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Placement of the Filling
The composite filling material is applied in layers, shaped to match your natural tooth, and hardened using a special curing light.
Polishing & Bite Adjustment
The filling is polished for a smooth finish, and your bite is checked to ensure comfort and proper function.
Most fillings can be completed in a single visit.
Dental Fillings vs. Other Restorative Treatments
For small to moderate cavities, fillings are the most conservative and effective solution. Larger areas of damage may require crowns or other restorations. Your dentist will recommend the best treatment based on the extent of decay.
Caring for Your Fillings
With proper care, dental fillings can last many years. To protect your fillings:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice
- Attend regular dental exams and cleanings
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
If a filling becomes loose or damaged, prompt treatment can prevent further issues.
