New Patients
(732) 813-3564
Existing Patients
(732) 639-3495
When a cavity or minor fracture undermines the structure of a tooth, a carefully placed filling restores strength, preserves function, and helps prevent further breakdown. Fillings are designed to rebuild the anatomy of a tooth so you can chew comfortably and maintain proper bite alignment without allowing decay to spread deeper into the tooth.
Dental decay remains one of the most common oral health issues across all ages, which is why restorative procedures like fillings are performed routinely. Addressing a small problem early with a conservative restoration often avoids the need for more invasive treatment later, such as crowns or root canal therapy.
At Elegant Dental Arts in Freehold, NJ, we focus on delivering restorations that balance durability with a natural appearance. Our goal is to repair the tooth while preserving as much healthy structure as possible so the restoration blends seamlessly with the surrounding enamel and supports long-term oral health.
Humanity’s efforts to heal and repair damaged teeth go back millennia, but modern restorative dentistry has evolved rapidly in the last two centuries. Early restorations relied on metals and rudimentary materials; subsequent improvements in dental science and materials have produced safer, more conservative options that are designed to mimic the look and function of natural teeth.
Today’s restorative toolkit includes adhesive resins, ceramics, and biocompatible cements that bond to tooth structure, distribute biting forces effectively, and provide superior aesthetics compared with older metal-based restorations. That progress lets dentists offer solutions tailored to both the physical demands of a tooth and the cosmetics of the smile.
Choosing a filling material is a clinical decision that balances strength, appearance, location in the mouth, and the amount of remaining tooth structure. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; the best choice depends on whether the filling is on a visible front tooth, a high-stress chewing surface, or a primary tooth in a child.
Modern tooth-colored materials allow dentists to preserve more healthy tooth because they bond directly to the enamel and dentin. In contrast, traditional metal restorations often required removing more tooth structure to create a mechanical lock. Your dentist will review the options and recommend materials that meet both functional and aesthetic needs.
Patients often appreciate an explanation of pros and cons for each option so they can make an informed choice. We aim to provide clear guidance about longevity, wear characteristics, and maintenance expectations for the material selected for your restoration.
Resin-based composite fillings are matched to the shade of your teeth and are widely used for visible areas of the mouth. These materials adhere directly to tooth surfaces, which helps seal the interface and can strengthen weakened enamel. Composite restorations are placed in layers and cured with a light to create a durable, natural-looking repair.
One advantage of composite is that the dentist often needs to remove less healthy tooth structure during preparation. Composites are versatile and can also be used for cosmetic bonding to correct small chips, close minor gaps, or reshape worn teeth.
Metal restorations, historically including amalgam and gold, are known for their strength and wear resistance in high-load areas like molars. Though they do not mimic tooth color, metals remain an effective option for patients who prioritize durability in back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.
Glass ionomer materials bond chemically to tooth structure and release fluoride over time, which can help protect the treated tooth from future decay. Because glass ionomers are less wear-resistant than composites, they are commonly used in pediatric cases, to restore areas near the gumline, or as temporary or transitional restorations.
Ceramic restorations are crafted from high-quality dental porcelain and are an excellent choice when a larger portion of the tooth needs rebuilding. These indirect restorations are fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded into place, offering superior stain resistance, a lifelike appearance, and long-term stability when properly cared for.
Gold and certain dental alloys are still valued for their longevity, precision fit, and biocompatibility. When esthetics are not the primary concern, gold restorations can offer a highly predictable and long-lasting solution for posterior teeth.
A typical appointment to place a filling begins with a careful evaluation of the tooth, including visual inspection and, when needed, radiographs to assess the extent of decay. We will explain the recommended approach and answer questions before treatment begins so you understand each step of the process.
> Local anesthesia is commonly used to ensure comfort during the procedure; once the area is numb, the dentist removes decayed tissue and shapes the cavity to accept the chosen restoration. For composite fillings, bonding agents and incremental placement are used; for indirect restorations, the tooth may receive a temporary restoration while the laboratory-crafted piece is made and later cemented in place.
Treatment time varies based on the size and location of the cavity, but many single-surface fillings can be completed in roughly an hour. For patients who experience dental anxiety, the dental team can discuss options for relaxation and sedation to make the visit more comfortable.
Throughout the appointment we focus on gentle technique and precise adjustments to ensure the restored tooth functions well with the rest of the bite. We verify the height and contacts of the filling before polishing so the result feels natural and lasts as long as possible.
After a filling is placed, sensible care helps it last. Good oral hygiene, routine professional exams and cleanings, and avoiding habits that place excessive stress on the teeth (like opening packages with your teeth) will extend the life of your restoration. With attentive home care and regular dental visits, many modern fillings serve patients well for years.
It is normal to notice some transient sensitivity for a few days after treatment, especially to temperature changes. This usually subsides as the tooth recovers. If sensitivity increases or persistent discomfort develops, contacting the dental office for evaluation is important so potential complications can be addressed early.
Occasionally a restoration may fracture or wear down over time, or decay may develop at the margin. When that happens, the filling can be repaired or replaced depending on the situation and the amount of remaining healthy tooth structure. The dentist will recommend the most conservative, long-term solution for maintaining function and appearance.
Protect yourself while numb
Local anesthesia can linger for an hour or two. Avoid chewing until normal feeling returns to reduce the risk of accidentally biting your lip, cheek, or tongue.
Expect some adjustment time
It may feel unusual to have a new restoration at first. Minor adjustments to the bite are common and can be made quickly if needed to improve comfort.
Sensitivity is usually temporary
Mild sensitivity to hot or cold is common and typically resolves within a few days to weeks. If discomfort persists or worsens, contact the dental team for an assessment.
Maintain good hygiene for longevity
Brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and attending recommended checkups will help prevent new decay around restorations and support their long-term success.
We are committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based care and will always walk you through the treatment and aftercare so you feel confident about the condition and appearance of your smile.
In summary, modern dental fillings are designed to preserve tooth structure, restore function, and maintain a natural appearance. If you have questions about which filling option is best for you or would like to schedule an evaluation, please contact us for more information.
If the pleasure of eating a delicious bowl of ice cream or sipping a soothing cup of tea gets overshadowed by dental pain that makes you wince; it's time to contact our office. As skilled providers of care, we'll determine what's causing your discomfort and perform the treatment required to alleviate your symptoms and get you back on the road to oral health.
Cavities develop because of an infectious process that causes progressive damage to tooth structure. Despite starting as a pinpoint defect on the outermost enamel layer of your tooth, untreated dental decay progressively compromises more and more healthy tooth structure as it works its way to the inner layers of your tooth.
Yes, you can still develop tooth decay on other surfaces of the tooth, around the margins of an old filling, or in fewer instances, recurrent decay underneath it. For this reason, it's essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene, a diet low in sugary beverages and sweets, and be sure to visit our office for routine checkups and care. While tooth decay is second only to the common cold in frequency, it's almost entirely preventable.
We value the time and comfort of our patients. If cavities are located on adjacent teeth, or in the same section of your smile, it may be possible to treat more than one tooth during your visit. However, how much is done each visit depends on several factors. We keep our patients well informed and tailor every treatment plan and visit to address their unique needs.
Addressing concerns on the presence of elemental mercury in silver fillings, the American Dental Association (ADA), The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the FDA, and the World Health Organization have all stated that amalgam restorations do not pose a risk to health. However, individuals with allergies or sensitivities to the metals in dental amalgam are advised to pursue other restorative options.
Dental fillings are performed under local anesthesia to help ensure your comfort throughout the entire procedure. The involved tooth remains completely numb for the extent of your visit. Within one or two hours after the procedure is completed, the local anesthetic will gradually wear off, and normal sensations return.
A tooth-colored composite filling is fully hardened and set by the end of your visit. However, we may advise you to wait a couple of hours until the local anesthesia has completely worn off. This advice is to help ensure you don't accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue while still numb.
The lifetime of a dental filling varies depending on the type of material used. While popular dental materials can last a decade or more with proper care, they can degrade over time, wear down, or even break. When this happens, you may experience some tooth sensitivity, a jagged edge, or a loose or dislodged piece of filling material. Whatever the case may be, it's essential to get the filling replaced before the tooth sustains further damage or other consequences arise. Beyond taking good care of your smile to help ensure the longevity of your fillings, our office regularly checks the status of your existing fillings as part of a routine checkup exam.
Dental fillings are an essential investment that serves to preserve and protect the health of your smile. With that said, how much a filling costs depends on the number of surfaces of the tooth involved and the filling material that is used. Amalgam restorations are the most economical. While tooth-colored composite fillings have a slightly higher cost, they offer the added benefits of being metal-free and much more aesthetically pleasing. Ceramic fillings, inlays, and onlays are more expensive than the preceding options but provide outstanding, long-lasting, and natural-looking results.
Dental insurances typically cover the cost of dental fillings. While we work with you to maximize your insurance benefits, there may still be an out-of-pocket expense. At the office of Elegant Dental Arts, we strive to help you begin care without any additional financial stress or delay.
