Dental Fillings in Santa Monica

At Clove Dental in Santa Monica, we’re here to help restore your smile, especially when you’re dealing with cavities or damaged teeth. Our advanced tooth filling treatments are available to comfortably and precisely restore the function and beauty of your smile, whether you're struggling with a cavity, tooth sensitivity, or minor damage.

We use trusted techniques and high-quality materials to make sure your filling blends in naturally

What Is a Tooth Filling?

A dental filling is a simple and effective way to repair a tooth that has been weakened by decay, small fractures, or everyday wear. During the procedure, your dentist removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. Then, he fills it with a durable material that restores its shape and strength.

 Among the fillings available at Clove Dental are:

  • Tooth-colored resin or composite:  It's ideal for exposed areas and fits in seamlessly with your natural teeth.
  • Silver amalgam: It is a long-lasting option that is ideal for molars and can endure the force of chewing.
  • Gold inlays: These are very long-lasting, biocompatible, and durable.
  • Porcelain or ceramic: This type of filling is durable, stain-resistant, and carefully designed to fit your smile.

When Might You Need a Filling?

It is not always simple to detect dental decay or minor damage. Although you may not feel discomfort immediately, the following signs may suggest that you need a dental filling:

  • Pain from biting or chewing
  • A tooth with a noticeable hole or black area
  • A region that feels uneven or harsh to the tongue

If you have any of these symptoms, we recommend that you schedule an appointment straight away.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Your whole smile is protected by fillings, not just the holes they cover. Here are some key advantages:

Prevents Decay
To prevent germs from spreading, the injured area is sealed up.
Restoration
Restoring dental function enables you to chew and consume without experiencing pain or discomfort.
Preserves Your Natural Tooth
This eliminates the need for future, more intrusive operations.
Improves Look
Because current materials blend very nicely, your smile will remain perfect.

What Happens During a Filling Appointment?

The procedure for having a filling is easy and quick. What to expect when you visit Clove Dental is as follows.

  • Comprehensive Exam: We will inspect your teeth and, if required, take digital images or X-rays.
  • Numbing: To make you comfortable throughout the treatment, a local anesthetic is used.
  • Decay Removal: Your tooth's afflicted area is cleaned and prepped.
  • Filling Placement: The material of your choice is positioned, formed, and set.
  • Final touches: We'll polish the surface and analyze your bite to ensure a smooth, organic feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does my filling last?
The material used will affect how long your filling lasts, but with excellent oral care and regular dental checkups, most fillings may last five to fifteen years. Composite resin fillings typically last 5-10 years, whereas amalgam fillings last 10-15 years. 
Is the procedure painful?

The actual filling procedure is not painful. You will not feel much discomfort throughout the procedure since we use local anesthesia to provide complete numbness in the treatment area.   There will be no discomfort, although you may experience some pressure or vibration. After the anesthesia wears off, it is normal to feel some discomfort, which normally goes away within a day or two.

Can I eat after getting a filling?
You can resume eating once the numbness from the local anesthetic has dissipated completely, which should be within two to four hours. To avoid accidentally biting your lips, tongue, or face, we recommend waiting until total sensation returns.   Because your tooth may be temporarily sensitive, begin with soft foods and avoid extremely hot or cold foods for the first 24 hours.
Which type of filling works best for me?
The location of the tooth, the size of the cavity, your financial situation, and your aesthetic choices all influence the best filling material. We'll help you make the best decision for your smile by guiding you through your options. Additionally, go over the advantages and disadvantages of each choice, which includes amalgam, ceramic, composite resin, and gold fillings.
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