Dental Fillings
Phoenix & North Scottsdale
 At Jerome Riddle DDS, we provide strong, natural-looking dental fillings to restore teeth affected by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. A filling not only repairs damage but also protects the tooth from further decay while restoring its strength and function. Our team takes time to explain your options and help you select the right filling material for your needs, ensuring both durability and a seamless look.
When Do You Need a Dental Filling?
Dental fillings are commonly recommended if you experience:
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Tooth Decay (Cavities)
- Repairing small to moderate decay before it worsens.
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Chipped or Cracked Teeth
- Restoring structure and appearance.
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Worn Teeth - Caused by grinding, clenching, or erosion.
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Replacing Old Fillings - Updating silver or damaged fillings with tooth-colored alternatives. |
Addressing these issues early prevents the need for more extensive treatments like crowns, root canals, or extractions.
Types of Dental Fillings We Offer
We use advanced filling materials to create strong, durable restorations. Options include:
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Composite Resin Fillings - Tooth-colored material that blends seamlessly with your smile.
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Glass Ionomer Fillings - Releases fluoride to help protect teeth from further decay.
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Ceramic Fillings - Highly durable and resistant to staining.
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Gold Fillings - Extremely strong and long-lasting.
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Silver Amalgam Fillings - A traditional, durable option, often used for back teeth. |
Direct vs. Indirect Fillings
Fillings are classified by how they are placed:
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Direct Fillings - Placed directly into the prepared cavity in a single visit.
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Indirect Fillings (Inlays & Onlays) - Custom-made restorations created in a dental lab and placed in a second appointment. Inlays fit within the cusps of the tooth, while onlays cover one or more cusps for additional protection. |
Indirect restorations are ideal for teeth with larger areas of damage that don’t require a full crown.
The Dental Filling Procedure
Getting a filling is a comfortable and straightforward process:
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Numbing the Area - Local anesthesia ensures a painless procedure.
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Removing Decay - Our dentist carefully removes all decayed tissue using advanced tools.
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Cleaning the Tooth - The area is disinfected to eliminate bacteria and debris.
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Placing the Filling - The chosen material is placed in layers, shaped, and hardened.
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Polishing - The restoration is polished for a smooth, natural finish. |
The result is a healthy, functional tooth that blends in with your natural smile.
Caring for Dental Fillings
With proper care, fillings can last for many years. To protect them:
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Brush Twice Daily - Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
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Floss Every Day - Prevent decay from forming around the filling edges.
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Avoid Very Hard Foods - Minimize stress on the filling, especially immediately after placement.
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Schedule Regular Exams - Routine checkups allow us to monitor your fillings and overall oral health. |
If a filling becomes loose, chipped, or sensitive, it’s important to contact us promptly for evaluation.
Other Restorative Options Beyond Fillings
Sometimes a tooth may need more than a filling. We also provide:
FAQs About Dental Fillings
How long do fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 7–10 years, while gold and ceramic restorations can last 15 years or more with good care.
Are dental fillings painful?
No. The procedure is done under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Some mild sensitivity may occur afterward, but it typically subsides quickly.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with tooth-colored ones?
Yes. Many patients choose to replace older amalgam fillings with composite or ceramic options for a more natural appearance and strong, modern protection.
Call Us For More Information
To get more information, visit us at Jerome Riddle DDS. Contact us today at 480-991-4410 to set up an appointment. |
