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For Emergencies Contact: 630.420.0013

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Office Hours

Mon & Fri 9 AM-6 PM
Tues & Thurs 7 AM-8 PM
Wed & Sat 9 AM-3 PM

Address

507 S. Main Street Naperville, IL 60540

Contact Us

630.420.0013

Stay Ahead of Tooth Decay

When discovered early, cavities are no big deal. Regular checkups are the best way to diagnose dental caries.

What Are Fillings?

Fillings are a type of dental restoration used to repair a tooth damaged by decay, called caries. It is common for a tooth to have decay but not cause any sensitivity or discomfort. That is one of the primary reasons regular dental checkups are so important! Catching any decay while it is still minor is the best means to avoid costly dental treatment. 

 

When tooth decay reaches the point of causing pain, the decay is usually too advanced for a filling to properly restore the tooth. A crown and possibly root canal may be needed. The cost of these two procedures for a single tooth is greater than the cost of 14 regular or periodic dental checkups!

 

Composite filling shown in an adult molar.

But I Don't Want My Teeth to Look Gray or Gold!

There are three types of filling material in use, though composite fillings are most common today. Composite fillings are those using a tooth-colored material that makes it nearly impossible for an untrained eye to see anything other than the tooth. In fact, composite fillings can even be used to rebuild chipped teeth – the material is dyed to match each individual’s tooth color, making the filling look completely natural!

 

 

The other two types of fillings are amalgam and gold. Amalgam is a metallic gray, silver, & mercury allow which hardens or cures over time after placement. Gold is a soft metal which is pressed into the cavity and forms a seal as a result of the placement pressure – no curing involved. It is extremely rare that we would use either amalgam or gold at our dental office.

What Should I Expect After Having a Cavity Filled?

It is common to experience some sensitivity and possibly some gum irritation for a few days after treatment. These side effects will be most noticeable for a few hours after the procedure and diminishing in nature until gone. Sometimes the filling will need additional adjustment to ensure proper bite alignment. If you notice that your bite does not feel right, please contact our office right away at 630.420.0013 so you can come in for adjustments.