Fillings

At Mi Smile Family Dental in Houston, TX, we understand the importance of maintaining oral health. One of the essential dental treatments we provide is dental fillings, which can help restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. Fillings involve removing the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and filling the resulting cavity with a suitable material, such as a composite resin (white filling) or amalgam (silver filling).

Dental fillings are appropriate for addressing various dental issues, including:

1. Cavities: Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel (the hard outer layer of the tooth), creating small holes. Fillings are an effective way to restore the tooth structure, improve function, and prevent further decay.
2. Cracks and Chips: Teeth can become cracked or chipped due to trauma, biting on hard objects, or clenching/grinding. Fillings can be used to repair these defects and prevent further damage to the tooth structure.
3. Worn Teeth: Teeth that have been worn down as a result of clenching or grinding can be restored with dental fillings, helping to improve both their appearance and function.
4. Cosmetic Reasons: In some cases, dental fillings may be used for cosmetic reasons to enhance the appearance of the teeth. For example, composite resin fillings can be used to fill in gaps, reshape teeth, or correct minor misalignments.

Dental fillings play a critical role in maintaining good oral health, as they are a safe and effective method for restoring damaged teeth and preventing further decay. 

The process of receiving a dental filling typically involves several steps. First, our team will examine your teeth to determine the extent of the damage and whether a filling is the appropriate treatment option. If a filling is needed, the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth will be removed, and the area will be thoroughly cleaned. This will generally require local anesthesia (numbing).

Next, the chosen filling material will be carefully applied to the preparation and shaped to match the contours (shape) of the surrounding tooth structure. Finally, the filling will be hardened (with a special light) and polished for a smooth, natural-looking finish.

The type of filling material used will depend on factors such as the location and size of the cavity, and your personal preferences. At Mi Smile Family Dental, our team is skilled in working with various filling materials and will work with you to help you choose the best option for your unique situation.

In addition to restoring the health and function of your teeth, dental fillings can also offer several aesthetic benefits. For example, composite resin fillings are tooth-colored and can be custom-shaded to blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth enamel. This makes them an excellent choice for patients who desire a more discreet and natural-looking restoration.

At Mi Smile Family Dental, we are committed to providing the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Our experienced team will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific dental concerns and goals. 

If you require a dental filling or are concerned about the health of your teeth, contact our team today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy and vibrant smile!