Repair cavities and protect your tooth
Catching a cavity early can help you keep more of your natural tooth. At Desert Willow Dental, a dental filling removes decay and seals the space. This helps prevent further damage and discomfort. Many Glendale patients choose tooth-colored composite fillings, which blend in with the natural tooth.
Dr. Russell Crane and Dr. Amanda Pharo can walk you through your options and help you choose the right approach for your tooth.
When you may need a filling
Cavities can start small and quiet, so you may not feel anything at first. That is why regular dental cleanings and checkups matter. They help your dentist spot trouble early. Here are common signs that you may need a filling:
- A cavity found during a checkup or on X-rays
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A visible hole or dark spot on a tooth
- An old filling that has cracked or worn down
- A minor chip in a tooth
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What to expect during a filling appointment
A filling visit is usually simple, and our team will explain each step before we begin. Most fillings are completed in one visit, often in about 30 to 60 minutes. Here is the general flow:
- We numb the area around the tooth
- Your dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth
- The tooth is cleaned and prepared
- Filling material is placed and shaped to fit
- A special light cures, or hardens, the material
- We check your bite and make small adjustments
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Types of fillings and when more is needed
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and bond to the tooth, which makes them a popular choice for teeth that show when you smile. Amalgam fillings are silver-colored metal and have been used for many years. Your dentist can help you decide which material fits your tooth.
Sometimes the damage is too large for a filling to hold up well. In that case, your dentist may recommend dental inlays and onlays to repair a larger area while keeping more of your natural tooth. Another option is a dental crown to cover and protect a weakened tooth.
Why choose a dental filling
Tooth-colored option
Composite material can be matched to your tooth shade for a natural look.
Quick, single-visit
Most fillings are completed in one appointment, often in 30 to 60 minutes.
Stops decay from spreading
Removing decay and sealing the tooth helps keep a small problem from growing.
Preserves tooth structure
Treating a cavity early can help you keep more of your natural tooth.