Tooth Fillings Dentist Apex NC

Fear-Free Tooth Fillings.

If the thought of going to the dentist and the possibility of needing a filling scares you, an understanding and skilled Apex, NC tooth fillings dentist can help alleviate your fears, and better yet, prolong the health of your teeth and smile. The understanding, compassionate, and highly skilled team of dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and office staff at Alliance Dentistry is here to help and alleviate your anxiety. Drs. Maureen M. Raczka and Timothy C. Raczka have been caring for a wide range of dental needs of North Carolinians of all ages since 2007. We believe that maintaining oral health and dental problems such as tooth decay (cavities) with simple fillings is a valuable restorative solution. Contact us today to see how we can help you, your oral health, and to keep smiling.

Tooth Fillings

Tooth fillings are used to repair teeth that have been affected by cavities, small fractures, and minor damages, and to alleviate tooth sensitivity and prevent tooth loss. They repair the structure of a tooth and its function after decay or damage has affected it. A tooth filling typically begins with your dentist numbing the area around the affected tooth or teeth with local anesthesia but depending on your particular needs, comfort level, and your dentist’s practice, they may offer to administer general anesthesia. Once the dentist is assured that the patient will feel no pain, they remove decayed or damaged tooth tissue and then fill the cavity with one of several filling materials (that are typically discussed and decided on in advance). The filling is then shaped and polished so that it matches and blends in smoothly with its surrounding tooth. A good Apex tooth fillings dentist and their staff can explain the procedure in more detail.

Types Of Tooth Fillings

Several different types of materials are used for tooth fillings but three of the more common types of filling are made of composite materials, an amalgam, or ceramic. Composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass. They are the same color as natural teeth and blend with them seamlessly. Ceramic fillings, commonly referred to as porcelain fillings, are made from high-quality dental ceramics and are also tooth-colored. Amalgam, or silver fillings, are made of a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. It is strong and durable but because it does not blend in with the natural tooth, it is typically only used in back teeth. If your dentist recommends that you need a filling, ask them what type of material they will be using. If you prefer that they use a different one than the one they recommend, ask them to explain why their preference and recommendation.

The Benefits Of Getting A Tooth Filling

Apex, NC tooth fillings are a common and effective solution for dealing with cavities and minor dental decay. They offer a straightforward way to repair damage, restore tooth function, and prevent further complications. While many of us know fillings as a routine dental procedure, the benefits of addressing dental decay early with a filling go beyond just fixing a cavity. At Alliance Dentistry, we’re here to share why getting a filling is an investment in long-term dental health. We have over 20 years of experience with Cary patients and are ready to help you.

Protecting Your Natural Tooth Structure

When decay is left untreated, it can slowly spread, compromising more of the tooth structure and increasing the need for more extensive repairs. By getting a filling, we’re removing the decayed portion of the tooth and replacing it with a durable material that keeps the tooth intact. This step prevents the decay from reaching the deeper parts of the tooth, such as the pulp or nerve, which would likely require a more complex procedure like a root canal. A filling is a proactive way to maintain the tooth’s strength and avoid extensive treatments later.

Restoring Function And Comfort

A decayed or damaged tooth can make simple activities like chewing and drinking uncomfortable. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods is often a common sign of decay. By filling the cavity, we’re able to restore the tooth’s full function, eliminating pain and sensitivity. With a properly placed filling, you’ll be able to eat and drink without the discomfort caused by exposed or weakened areas of the tooth. Fillings help bring back the comfort and functionality of your bite, so you can enjoy your meals without worry.

Preventing Further Damage

Tooth fillings in Apex don’t just repair damage that has already occurred—they also act as a shield for the tooth. Once decay has been removed and replaced with a filling, the affected tooth is much better protected from future decay or damage in that area. Sealing off the damaged part of the tooth creates a barrier against bacteria, which helps reduce the chances of developing new cavities in the same spot. By treating decay early with a filling, we’re effectively protecting the tooth from future issues, supporting overall oral health.

Improving Appearance And Confidence

For many, having a decayed or damaged tooth can affect confidence, especially if it’s noticeable when you speak or smile. Tooth-colored fillings, made from composite resin, blend naturally with the surrounding teeth. Unlike older metal fillings, composite fillings are matched to the color of your teeth, making them almost invisible. This aesthetic improvement can make a significant difference in how you feel about your smile and how you present yourself to others. Having a filling that restores both function and appearance is an added advantage for those who may feel self-conscious about their teeth.

Supporting Long-Term Oral Health

Getting a filling promptly when decay is identified helps prevent the need for more intensive treatments in the future. Fillings are a straightforward procedure, and if done early, they can prevent more advanced decay that would otherwise lead to larger restorations or even tooth loss. Addressing cavities early with fillings is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support lasting oral health and avoid complex treatments down the road. By committing to timely dental care, we’re investing in a healthier smile for years to come.

Take The Next Step Toward Better Oral Health

Fillings are more than just a quick fix—they’re a foundational part of maintaining your smile and preventing future issues. At Alliance Dentistry, we’re here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have. If you’re experiencing discomfort, sensitivity, or think you may need a filling, don’t wait. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment for tooth fillings in Apex.

 

Dental Care With Real Care

If you know you need to get your teeth checked but have been putting it off, even if it has been years, we will welcome you and we will not shame you. We are here to help you and to help make your visit to the Apex tooth fillings dentist as stress-free as possible. Contact the caring team at Alliance Dentistry to answer your questions and to set up an appointment today.