When caught early, tooth decay can often be treated with a simple, minimally invasive filling. At Dental Depot Mesa, your dentist will gently remove the decayed area and restore the tooth, protecting it from further damage.
If left untreated, decay can spread deeper into the tooth and may eventually require more complex procedures, like a root canal. That’s why it’s important to treat cavities early. Fillings may also need to be replaced if they become worn or cracked over time. When it comes to your oral health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Fillings play a key role in preventing small cavities from turning into bigger, more painful, and costly problems. When paired with regular dental cleanings and preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants, fillings help preserve the strength, function, and health of your teeth for years to come.
At Dental Depot Mesa, we’re committed to providing accessible, high-quality dental care for every patient. We accept most major insurance plans, as well as CareCredit, and we work with patients to find flexible payment solutions that fit their budget—because everyone deserves a healthy smile.
Your oral health is our top priority. Call today to schedule your appointment and see how comfortable and convenient exceptional dental care can be.
For patients looking for a natural-looking restoration, composite resin fillings are an excellent choice. Made from a durable blend of glass and plastic, this tooth-colored material can be perfectly matched to your natural teeth—blending in seamlessly with your smile.
Composite fillings not only look great but also provide strong, long-lasting protection against future decay. For more severe cases of damage or decay, our team at Dental Depot Mesa can recommend additional restorative options to help preserve your oral health and function.
Before we begin your filling, your comfort is our top priority. Your dentist will start by numbing the area around the tooth to ensure a pain-free experience. Once the area is fully numb, the decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed using a dental drill.
After confirming all decay is gone, the space is cleaned to remove any bacteria or debris. The cavity is then filled with a durable material, and your dentist will shape and polish it to match the natural contour of your tooth.
The entire procedure is typically quick and straightforward. While the local anesthetic may take an hour or so to wear off, you’ll be able to speak and eat normally shortly after your visit.
Cavities often develop silently, which is why regular dental checkups and cleanings—typically twice a year—are so important. Left untreated, a small cavity can worsen over time, potentially leading to infection and requiring more advanced treatments like a root canal or even tooth extraction.
Most cavities are detected by your dentist using specialized tools and diagnostic imaging that reveal issues not visible to the naked eye. That’s why it’s common for patients to be unaware they have a cavity until it’s found during a routine exam.
In some cases, you may notice symptoms such as:
If you’re experiencing any of these signs—or if it’s time for your regular checkup—schedule a visit with Dental Depot Mesa. Catching cavities early allows for the least invasive solution: a simple dental filling.
If your dentist discovers a cavity during your checkup, treatment usually requires a follow-up appointment. Fillings typically take between 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and number of cavities being treated. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
1. Numbing the Area
To keep you comfortable, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth using a local anesthetic. While you might feel a small pinch from the injection, the numbing takes effect quickly and ensures a pain-free experience.
2. Removing Decay
Using precise instruments, your dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and clean the area thoroughly. A fluoride rinse may also be used to sterilize the space and prevent further bacterial growth.
3. Filling the Tooth
Once clean, the cavity is filled with a restorative material such as composite resin, porcelain, or metal amalgam. Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on your needs. The filling is then hardened using a curing light.
4. Shaping and Polishing
Finally, your dentist will shape and polish the filling so it blends naturally with your tooth and ensures your bite feels comfortable. If it feels slightly off when you bite down, let your dentist know—adjustments can be made on the spot.
Yes—fillings aren’t just for cavities. They can also be used to treat and repair other common dental issues, including:
Chipped Teeth
The same materials used in cavity fillings can also restore chipped or uneven teeth. A filling can smooth the surface, restore shape, and improve both function and appearance—leaving you with a stronger, more confident smile.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Chronic grinding can wear down tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity, cracks, or weakened areas. Fillings can help rebuild these worn-down surfaces, reinforcing the tooth’s structure and protecting it from further damage.
Caring for a dental filling is just like caring for your natural teeth. To keep both your teeth and fillings healthy:
Brush twice a day for two minutes each time
Floss daily to remove debris and plaque between teeth
Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and rinse or brush after consuming them
Visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups
With proper care, fillings can last for many years. However, they can sometimes become loose or break. If you notice sensitivity, pain, or a change in the way your filling feels, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. A damaged or missing filling can leave the tooth exposed to bacteria and increase the risk of infection or decay.
