Dental Fillings in Woodland Hills, CA
Dental fillings can rejuvenate your teeth and protect them from further decay, ensuring a healthy and confident smile for years to come. Woodland Hills Family Dentistry is your go-to partner for achieving optimal oral health and a radiant smile. Let’s explore dental fillings—a common but essential procedure that can fix cavities, restore tooth structure, and keep your smile healthy.
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Contact Woodland Hills Family Dentistry today to reserve an oral exam or to learn more about our dental fillings in Woodland Hills.
Understanding the Importance of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings play a crucial role in treating cavities caused by decay, restoring the integrity of damaged teeth, and preventing the progression of oral health issues. These versatile restorations are designed to fill the void left by decayed tooth material, providing strength and protection to the affected tooth.
When Are Dental Fillings Necessary?
- Cavity Treatment: Dental fillings are primarily used to treat cavities caused by bacterial decay, preventing further damage to the tooth structure.
- Tooth Preservation: By removing decayed tissue and filling the resulting space with a dental filling, the natural tooth structure is preserved, avoiding the need for more extensive treatments like extractions.
- Crack or Fracture Repair: Dental fillings can also be used to repair minor cracks or fractures in teeth, restoring their functionality and appearance.
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Tooth-colored fillings can improve the aesthetics of your smile by seamlessly blending with your natural teeth, creating a harmonious look.
If you have a cavity, it’s important to treat it as early as possible. Because tooth decay is a bacterial infection, it will only continue to expand deeper into the tooth and adjacent tooth structures until it’s removed by a dentist.
Types of Dental Fillings in Woodland Hills, CA
The location and size of your cavity can influence the type of dental filling that you need. Woodland Hills Family Dentistry offers several different types of fillings to choose from:
Composite (White) Fillings
These tooth-colored fillings are the least invasive type of restoration available. The white material bonds closely with your tooth enamel, minimizing how much tooth structure is altered during the restorative process. Because composite is available in a variety of shades, we can select a color that blends in with your natural tooth enamel.
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Traditional amalgam fillings are best for scenarios involving large cavities or teeth that are difficult to keep dry during the treatment process. They are the least costly option for dental fillings. However, their silver color can interfere with your smile.
Indirect Porcelain Fillings
Lab-made fillings such as inlays and onlays provide added reinforcement for extremely compromised teeth. Sometimes referred to as “three-quarter crowns,” porcelain fillings are a more conservative alternative to traditional full-coverage crown options.
The Dental Filling Procedure
- Initial Examination: Our skilled Woodland Hills, CA, dentists will thoroughly examine your teeth, identify areas of decay, and discuss the best course of action for your dental fillings.
- Decay Removal: The decayed portion of the tooth will be carefully removed using specialized dental instruments, leaving behind a clean and healthy tooth surface.
- Tooth Preparation: The tooth will be prepared to receive the filling material, ensuring a secure and long-lasting restoration.
- Filling Material Selection: Depending on your needs and preferences, various filling materials, such as amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain, may be used to fill the cavity.
- Filling Placement: The chosen filling material will be placed into the prepared tooth, shaped to match the natural tooth contours, and hardened using a special light or chemical process.
Dental Filling Aftercare Instructions
Plan to brush and floss around all of your teeth, especially the ones with existing dental fillings. This will help prevent recurrent decay from developing around your new restorations. Also, be sure to plan a checkup with our Woodland Hills dentist at least twice a year.
Benefits of Dental Fillings at Woodland Hills Family Dentistry
Experience the following advantages when you choose dental fillings at Woodland Hills Family Dentistry:
- Cavity Prevention: Dental fillings halt the decay progression, preventing further tooth damage.
- Tooth Restoration: Fillings restore the strength and function of damaged teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak with ease.
- Natural Appearance: Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a discreet and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
- Improved Oral Health: By treating cavities promptly with fillings, you can maintain optimal oral health and prevent complications associated with untreated decay.
Trust Woodland Hills Family Dentistry for Expert Dental Fillings
At Woodland Hills Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care and personalized treatment plans that cater to your specific needs. Our experienced dentist in Woodland Hills, CA, combines skill, compassion, and innovation to deliver top-quality dental fillings that restore your smile and promote lasting oral health.
Contact Us Today!
Ready to revitalize your smile with the transformative power of dental fillings? Schedule a consultation with Woodland Hills Family Dentistry today! Let us guide you on the path to a healthy, vibrant smile that radiates confidence and joy.
On This Page
- Understanding the Importance of Dental Fillings
- When Are Dental Fillings Necessary?
- Types of Dental Fillings in Woodland Hills, CA
- The Dental Filling Procedure
- Dental Filling Aftercare
- Benefits of Dental Fillings at Woodland Hills Family Dentistry
- Trust Woodland Hills Family Dentistry for Expert Dental Fillings
Related Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of your dental filling as long as you have not exhausted your benefits for the year.
A well-maintained dental filling can last 10-20 years with good oral hygiene.
No. We use effective numbing medications so that you don’t feel any discomfort during your treatment.
Most dental fillings require 30-45 minutes to perform. Some appointments may be longer if we are placing more than one dental filling at a time.
It’s normal for your tooth to feel a little different after getting a filling, but it shouldn’t be uncomfortable. Let us know if you experience any discomfort, and we will make adjustments to the filling to ensure a proper fit.
Definition of common dental fillings terminology
Tooth decay (dental caries): Tooth decay is the breakdown of teeth due to acids produced by bacteria.
Tooth Enamel: Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the human body.
Tartar: Tartar is a hard yellowish substance that forms on your teeth and causes them to decay if it is not removed.
Cavities: A cavity is a hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay.
The Woodland Hills Family Dentistry Experience
- Highest Level of Dental Care
- Friendly and Caring Staff
- Affordable Financing Options
- Personalized Dental Services
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About our Dentistry
- CA (License 12077). View License Information
- Insurance: We work with most insurance providers.
- No Insurance? No problem call 818-225-9410 for more information.
- Financing Options: We offer a wide range of dental financing options.
- We serve patients from the following counties: Los Angeles County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Woodland Hills, Athens, Harbor Gateway, Torrance, Alondra Park, Hawthorne
- Have Questions? Please feel free to contact us at 818-225-9410
Helpful links: WebMD (Tooth Fillings) | ADA (Glossary of Dental Terms)
