Dental Fillings

Dental Fillings San Francisco

Dental Fillings are one of the most common dental procedures performed today. Restoring teeth with a filling has been around since ancient times. The first ancient “fillings” were often just pieces of shells, metal, and other types of materials that were used to plug up the holes in decayed teeth. Today, dental fillings are made from various restorative materials that safely and effectively help teeth.

At Post Street Dental, we provide dental fillings and other dental services to patients from San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area. Our dentists are highly skilled and experienced in all aspects of fillings, ensuring a seamless finish. If you’re searching for dental fillings in San Francisco, call us at (415) 986-4534 to schedule an appointment or complete the online booking form.

What Is a Cavity?

Before we discuss dental fillings, it’s important to understand what a cavity is. A cavity forms when plaque and bacteria attack the tooth enamel, causing it to break down and form a hole. If a cavity is not treated, it will grow larger and eventually reach the inner pulp of the tooth, causing pain, infection, and tooth loss. Signs of a cavity can be sensitivity to hot and cold, pain while chewing, visible holes in the teeth, and bad breath.

How A Dental Filling Works

Dental fillings are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by cavities. When you have a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then “fill” the space with a filling. It’s important to have a filling placed as soon as possible to prevent additional decay and damage to the tooth.

Types of Fillings

There are many different types of dental filling materials available, each made from different materials. The type of filling your dentist chooses will be based on the size of the cavity, where it is located as well as your preference.

Composite Fillings (white fillings). Often called white or tooth-colored fillings, composite resin fillings are made from a mixture of resin and plastic. They are ideal for small and medium cavities. The composite material blends well with your natural tooth color.

Amalgam Fillings (silver fillings). Silver amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, copper, and tin. Dental amalgams are typically used on back teeth (molars) because they are more durable and less expensive than other types of filling. Talk to your dentist if you have allergic reactions to certain metals. 

Gold Fillings. Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy and are usually reserved for high-strength cavities in the back teeth. They are also more expensive than other types of fillings. 

Ceramic Fillings. These fillings are made with porcelain and match your teeth’ color. Also called inlays or onlays, they are ideal for small and medium cavities and blend well with the natural color of your teeth.

Glass Ionomer Fillings. These fillings are made from a glass and acrylic mixture. They release fluoride, which helps to prevent tooth decay and are typically used on baby teeth.

What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure

The first step in getting a dental filling is to have your cavity diagnosed by the dentist. This will involve a visual examination of your mouth, as well as X-rays to determine the size and location of the cavity.

Once the cavity has been diagnosed, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. Next, they will use a drill to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. Once the decay has been removed, the dentist will fill the space with your chosen type of filling material. 

After the filling has been placed, the dentist will check to ensure that it is the correct size and shape. They will then polish the filling to match the natural finish of your tooth. The entire dental filling procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.

After the Procedure

It’s normal to feel some sensitivity in your tooth after the procedure, but this should go away within a few days.

• You may also experience soreness in your jaw from opening your mouth for an extended period. This can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication.
• You should avoid eating hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours after the procedure, as this can damage your tooth.
• Be sure to brush your teeth and floss regularly to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
• If you continue to feel pain or sensitivity after a few days, contact your dentist.

What Happens If I Leave a Cavity Untreated?

Cavities need to be treated as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the tooth. If left untreated, cavities will grow larger and eventually reach the inner pulp of the tooth, causing pain, infection, and tooth loss. If the cavity reaches the tooth’s root, you may need a root canal procedure to save the tooth.

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are the best way to prevent cavities and dental decay. Be sure to brush and floss daily, and see your dentist every six months. If you do get a cavity, don’t wait to have it treated! 

It’s best to wait at least 2-3 hours after a filling before eating. This gives the filling time to set and helps prevent tooth pain or sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s best to wait at least 2-3 hours after a filling before eating. This gives the filling time to set and helps prevent tooth pain or sensitivity.