Dental Fillings in Downey

For many of us who experience tooth decay, dental fillings in Downey are a great way to repair and restore your teeth to their original form. Fillings help prevent further damage by sealing off any cavities that may have formed in your teeth. At Orange Estates Dental, we understand the importance of filling cavities as soon as possible, which is why we want you to know everything there is about dental fillings.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are used to repair damage caused by cavities. Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel. The acid creates tiny holes in the enamel which then allows bacteria and other debris to collect inside the tooth structure. A filling is essentially a way of “filling” those holes or cavities with a material that is designed to protect the teeth from further decay or damage.

Types of Dental Fillings

1. Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are one of the most common types of dental fillings. While they are less expensive than other types of fillings, they are also not as aesthetically pleasing.
2. Composite Fillings
Composite fillings, also known as white fillings, are made from a mixture of glass or quartz filler and resin. Composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings but are much more aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, composite fillings can be matched to the color of your teeth so that they are virtually invisible.

The Filling Process

When you come to visit us for a dental filling in Downey,we use local anesthesia - so no need to worry about any painful surprises! Then we will remove any remaining decay using an instrument called a drill and clean out any debris inside the cavity before filling it with your chosen material. After that, we will polish your new filling so that it looks smooth and natural-looking before sending you home with instructions on how best to care for your new restoration!

What are the signs of a cavity?

Cavities are a dental issue to be taken seriously, and dental fillings can help save the day! But how do you know when it's time to consult a dental professional? The signs of a cavity are pretty easy to spot:


1. You have a toothache. If you're experiencing pain in your tooth, it could be a sign that you have a cavity. The pain may be constant or may only occur when you eat or drink something cold or hot. If you have a toothache, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible so that they can treat the cavity before it gets worse.
2. You see a hole in your tooth. If you can see a hole or pit in your tooth, it's likely that you have a cavity. Cavities form when the enamel of the tooth breaks down, allowing bacteria to enter and cause decay. If you see a hole in your tooth, make an appointment with your dentist so that they can fill it and prevent further damage.
3. Your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. If your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, it could be a sign of a cavity. When the enamel of the tooth breaks down, it exposes the dentin, which is much more sensitive to temperature changes. If you notice that your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, make an appointment with your dentist so they can check for cavities.
4. You see brown or white spots on your teeth. Brown or white spots on your teeth are another sign of cavities. These spots occur when the enamel of the tooth begins to break down and bacteria start to form. If you see brown or white spots on your teeth, make an appointment with your dentist so they can check for cavities and treat them if necessary
We understand that getting dental fillings in Downey may seem intimidating at first, but rest assured that our experienced team at Orange Estates Dental will make sure your experience goes as smoothly as possible! From choosing the right type of filling material for you all the way through polishing up your new restoration, our goal is always to provide comprehensive care tailored just for you!
If you have any additional questions about dental fillings in Downey or would like to schedule an appointment with us today, please give us a call – we look forward to hearing from you soon!