Best Care Dental · Colorado Springs

Dental Fillings in Colorado Springs

Tooth-colored fillings repair areas of decay or minor damage while blending with your smile. Dr. Bashi evaluates the tooth and recommends a restoration suited to its condition.

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Fillings in Colorado Springs, CO Composite Tooth-Colored Fillings

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Your Treatment, Explained

Dental fillings are an essential procedure in general dentistry that maintains oral health and ensures our teeth function properly. At our practice, we prioritize this crucial treatment. Fillings not only ease the discomfort caused by decay but also play a significant role in saving your tooth. Our dedication to your dental well-being is evident through our comprehensive care approach. Dr. Bashi offers personalized evaluations to each patient. If you’re experiencing symptoms that suggest you need a filling or if you have any oral health concerns, we’re here to help. We conduct thorough assessments to determine the necessity of treatment and guide you toward the best options for your dental health. Trust in our expertise to keep your smile looking its best.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are materials that restore the function and integrity of missing tooth structures resulting from caries (cavities) or external trauma. Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, and dental fillings are a frequently used solution. They are also used to repair the worn-down areas of the teeth caused by bruxism, otherwise known as teeth grinding, or to replace part of a broken tooth. Today’s dental filling materials have improved significantly. Dr. Bashi can fill the cavity with tooth-colored composite resin without compromising your smile’s appearance.

Do You Require a Dental Filling?

Cavities are the most common reason for a filling. They form when bacteria in the mouth convert sugars from food into acids. These acids then attack the tooth’s enamel, gradually creating holes or cavities in the tooth structure. Signs like tooth sensitivity or pain can signal decay or other damage that requires a filling. During your checkup, Dr. Bashi uses various techniques to detect cavities and other issues, including visual examination, dental probes, and X-rays. Early detection plays an important role in safeguarding your oral health.

Through routine cleanings and checkups, Dr. Bashi proactively monitors your dental well-being. Fillings are essential for treating decay and preventing complications that require more complex treatment. For example, a large cavity may need to be treated with a dental crown to safeguard the tooth and restore its structure and function. Additionally, when decay reaches the tooth’s pulp, causing intense sensitivity and pain, root canal treatment may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.

The Process of Getting a Dental Filling

Examination and Preparation

During this initial consultation, Dr. Bashi will carefully examine your teeth, perhaps using X-rays to get a detailed view of the affected tooth or teeth. This step is crucial for understanding the extent of the decay and planning the proper treatment. Dr. Bashi will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic, ensuring you are comfortable throughout the treatment.

Removing Decay

The next step involves Dr. Bashi removing the decayed part of the tooth. He will carefully and precisely remove the decay using specialized dental instruments such as a high-speed dental drill. This eliminates bacteria, prevents the spread of decay, and prepares the tooth for the filling material.

Cleaning and Filling

After removing the decay, Dr. Bashi will then place the filling. There are many types of filling materials available, but composite resin fillings are favored for their ability to match the natural color of your teeth. Dr. Bashi carefully selects a resin shade that blends seamlessly with your tooth, ensuring the filling is virtually undetectable. Unlike traditional silver fillings, composite fillings not only protect your tooth but also enhance its appearance. To place the filling, Dr. Bashi skillfully shapes the material to fit your tooth and then hardens it with a special light. This process restores the tooth’s structure and function.

Shaping and Polishing

Once the filling is in place, Dr. Bashi will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your bite is comfortable and that the filling feels smooth. This step is important for ensuring your comfort and the filling’s longevity.

Post-Treatment Care

Dr. Bashi will provide you with care instructions for your new filling. This includes avoiding very hot or cold foods for a short time and maintaining good oral hygiene. After your treatment, it is normal to experience some sensitivity, but this usually subsides quickly.

The Importance of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a very common treatment option. While it is a straightforward process, fillings play an important role in restorative and preventative dentistry. Consider these benefits:

They prevent further decay: Fillings stop decay from progressing further. This preserves more of your natural tooth and prevents the need for more extensive treatments like root canals or extractions.
They restore function: A filling restores the normal function and shape of the tooth, allowing you to chew properly and without pain.
They provide aesthetic improvements: With advancements in dental materials, fillings can closely match the color of your natural teeth.

Our patients’ smiles

Dental Filling Results

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Dental filling

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Answers From Dr. Bashi

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Quick answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dental fillings hurt?

Thanks to local anesthesia, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. It’s normal for your tooth to feel sensitive for a day or two after receiving a dental filling. You may experience slight discomfort or increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, or even when inhaling cold air, leading to momentary discomfort or a tingling sensation. Additionally, you might notice that your gums feel tender or sore for a few days following the procedure, particularly when brushing or flossing.

How long does a filling take?

The time required for a filling can vary, depending on the cavity’s size and location in your mouth. Generally, the process can take from 15 minutes to an hour. If you need fillings for multiple cavities, the procedure will take longer.

What is the success rate of fillings?

The longevity and success of dental fillings depend on the material used, with their durability ranging from 5 to 15 years. Since fillings may not last a lifetime, regular dental checkups are important for assessing if a replacement might be needed.