When decay or minor damage weakens a tooth, a filling can restore the affected area before the problem becomes more extensive. At Excellence in Dentistry, our dentists provide dental fillings in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to repair cavities and damaged teeth while preserving healthy tooth structure whenever possible.
Dr. Curtis Godfrey and Dr. Brock Russell both have extensive restorative experience. Dr. Russell has completed more than 2,000 fillings and restorative cases, while Dr. Godfrey has more than 20 years of experience providing comprehensive and restorative dentistry.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is used to repair a portion of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or another minor structural problem. Our dentists remove the compromised tooth structure, prepare the area and place restorative material to rebuild the tooth.
The goal is to restore the shape and function of the tooth while preserving as much healthy structure as appropriate.
When Might You Need a Dental Filling?
A filling may be recommended when a tooth has a cavity or a smaller area of damage that does not require a more extensive restoration. Our dentists will evaluate the tooth and determine how much structure has been affected before recommending treatment.
You may need a filling if you have:
- A cavity caused by tooth decay
- A small chipped or damaged area
- An older filling that is worn, loose or damaged
- Sensitivity related to an area of decay
- A tooth that needs a relatively conservative restorative repair
If the tooth has lost too much structure for a filling to provide predictable support, our dentists may recommend a dental crown or another restorative option instead.
How Tooth Decay Leads to Cavities
Tooth decay develops when acids produced by bacteria damage the tooth structure over time. If the weakened area progresses, a cavity can form and may continue to enlarge without treatment.
Early decay does not always cause pain, which is one reason routine dental cleanings and exams are important. These visits give our dentists an opportunity to identify areas that may need monitoring or treatment before they become more extensive.
What to Expect During a Dental Filling
Your appointment begins with an evaluation of the tooth and the extent of the decay or damage. Our dentists will explain what they find and why a filling is or is not the appropriate treatment.
If a filling is recommended, the damaged portion of the tooth is removed and the area is prepared for the restorative material. The filling is then placed and shaped to rebuild the missing tooth structure.
Before treatment is complete, our dentists check the restoration and your bite to make sure the repaired tooth functions comfortably with the surrounding teeth.
Tooth-Colored Fillings and Natural-Looking Results
When appropriate, tooth-colored restorative materials can be used to repair a tooth while helping the filling blend with the surrounding enamel. This can be particularly valuable when the treated tooth is visible when you smile.
Dr. Godfrey has completed hundreds of cosmetic cases in addition to his restorative work, allowing him to consider both function and appearance when planning visible restorations. Patients with broader aesthetic concerns may also benefit from discussing cosmetic dentistry options.
Dental Fillings vs. Dental Crowns
Fillings and crowns can both restore damaged teeth, but they are used for different levels of structural loss. A filling repairs a more localized area of the tooth, while a crown covers substantially more of the visible tooth and provides greater support when significant structure has been lost.
Our dentists consider the size and location of the damage, the strength of the remaining tooth and your bite before recommending one treatment over the other.
What If Decay Reaches Deeper Into the Tooth?
A filling treats decay that can be restored without more extensive treatment. If decay or infection reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, a filling alone may not resolve the problem.
In those situations, our dentists may evaluate whether root canal treatment can help preserve the tooth. If the tooth cannot be restored predictably, tooth extraction may need to be discussed.
Caring for a Dental Filling
A restored tooth still requires daily care. Brushing, flossing and regular preventive visits help protect the natural tooth around the filling and give our dentists an opportunity to monitor the restoration over time.
Fillings can experience wear or damage, especially in areas exposed to heavier biting forces. If a filling becomes loose, fractures or begins causing discomfort, contact our office so the tooth can be evaluated.
Experience With Restorative Treatment
Dr. Brock Russell has a particularly strong restorative background relative to his time in practice, including more than 2,000 fillings and restorative cases, more than 300 crowns and more than 15 bridges. He has also completed advanced continuing education in restorative dentistry.
Dr. Curtis Godfrey brings more than 20 years of comprehensive clinical experience and completes more than 100 hours of continuing education annually with Spear Education, including advanced study in restorative dentistry, occlusion and comprehensive treatment planning.
Together, our dentists can evaluate whether a filling is the most conservative appropriate treatment or whether the tooth requires a different restorative approach.
Dental Filling FAQs
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
A filling may be recommended when decay or minor damage has affected part of a tooth but enough healthy structure remains for a conservative restoration. Our dentists can determine whether a filling is appropriate after examining the tooth.
Can a cavity go away without a filling?
Once tooth structure has been lost and a cavity has formed, restorative treatment may be needed. Our dentists can evaluate the area and explain whether it requires a filling or another form of care.
What is the difference between a filling and a crown?
A filling repairs a localized area of damage, while a crown covers more of the tooth and may be recommended when the tooth is significantly weakened or has lost more structure.
Can old fillings need to be replaced?
Yes. Fillings can wear, loosen or become damaged over time. Our dentists can examine an existing restoration and determine whether it remains functional or should be repaired or replaced.
Can dental fillings look natural?
Tooth-colored restorative materials can often be selected to blend more naturally with the surrounding tooth. The appearance depends on the location of the filling, the amount of tooth being restored and the material used.
Where can I get dental fillings in Idaho Falls, Idaho?
Excellence in Dentistry provides dental fillings for cavities and minor tooth damage. Call 208-529-4321 to schedule an evaluation with our dentists and learn which restorative treatment may be appropriate.
Repair a Cavity Before It Becomes a Bigger Problem
If you have tooth decay, a damaged filling or another small area that needs repair, dental fillings in Idaho Falls, ID, may help restore the tooth before more extensive treatment is needed. Call 208-529-4321 to schedule an appointment at Excellence in Dentistry with our dentists.