Tooth decay happens to nearly everyone at some point, affecting your oral health and comfort. Fillings restore teeth damaged by cavities, stopping decay from progressing and protecting the underlying structure. This common dental procedure preserves your natural teeth while eliminating pain and sensitivity caused by damaged enamel.
At LALUME Dental Studio, we provide tooth-colored fillings that repair cavities and minor damage while maintaining the natural appearance of your smile. Dr. Shahira Saad uses advanced materials and minimally invasive techniques to restore your teeth’s health and function. Our approach preserves as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, giving you strong, beautiful restorations that last for years.
Dental fillings replace portions of your tooth lost to decay or damage. When bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at your enamel, cavities form. Left untreated, these cavities grow larger and deeper, potentially reaching the nerve inside your tooth and causing significant pain. Fillings stop this progression by removing the decayed material and sealing the area with restorative material.
The process protects your tooth from further damage while restoring its shape and function. You can chew comfortably again without sensitivity or pain. Modern filling materials bond to your tooth structure, actually strengthening the remaining enamel rather than simply plugging a hole.
Different filling materials suit different situations and patient preferences. At LALUME, we focus on composite resin fillings, also known as tooth-colored or white fillings. These aesthetic restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile or speak.
Composite resin consists of resin and fine glass particles that bond directly to your tooth structure. This bonding creates a tight seal that prevents bacteria from entering and causing recurring decay. The material comes in numerous shades, allowing Dr. Saad to match your tooth’s exact color for natural-looking results.
Traditional silver amalgam fillings, while durable, stand out dramatically against white teeth and require removing more healthy tooth structure for placement. Composite fillings offer a conservative, aesthetic alternative that most patients prefer. They’re versatile enough to repair not just cavities but also chipped teeth, worn edges, and small gaps between teeth.
Recognizing when you need a filling helps you address problems before they become serious. Common warning signs include:
These symptoms warrant evaluation, as catching cavities early makes treatment simpler and more comfortable. Regular dental examinations help us identify cavities before you experience symptoms. We check for early signs of decay during your preventive care visits, often finding small cavities that haven’t caused pain yet. Treating these early cavities prevents them from growing into larger problems requiring more extensive procedures.
The filling procedure is straightforward and comfortable. Most appointments take less than an hour from start to finish. We begin by numbing the area around your tooth so you feel no discomfort during treatment. Once you’re completely numb, Dr. Saad carefully removes the decayed portion of your tooth using precise instruments that preserve healthy structure.
After cleaning away all decay and shaping the cavity, we prepare your tooth for the filling material. For composite fillings, this involves applying a bonding agent that helps the filling adhere to your tooth. Dr. Saad places the composite material in layers, using a special light to harden each layer before adding the next. This layering technique creates a strong, durable restoration.
Once the filling is complete, Dr. Saad shapes and polishes it until it feels smooth and natural. She checks your bite to ensure the filling doesn’t interfere with how your teeth come together. You leave with a fully restored tooth that functions normally and looks completely natural.
Fillings need the same care as your natural teeth. Good oral hygiene protects both your fillings and the surrounding tooth structure, helping everything last longer. Your daily routine makes the biggest difference in how long your fillings serve you well.
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent new cavities from forming. Floss between all your teeth once a day to clean areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Visit us regularly for professional cleanings and examinations so we can monitor your fillings and catch any issues early.
Certain habits can damage fillings over time and should be avoided:
Most composite fillings last seven to ten years or longer with proper care. We check them at every visit for signs of wear, chipping, or gaps forming at the margins. Addressing small issues promptly prevents them from developing into bigger problems requiring more extensive treatment.
Dr. Shahira Saad provides natural-looking fillings that restore your teeth’s health and beauty using the latest materials and techniques. At LALUME Dental Studio, we’ve created an environment where dental care feels more like a spa experience than a clinical visit. Our private treatment rooms feature Netflix on ceiling TVs, aromatherapy, custom music stations, and noise-canceling headphones, all designed to help you relax completely. We never rush appointments or double-book, which means Dr. Saad gives you her complete attention and takes time to answer all your questions.
Our commitment to minimally invasive dentistry ensures we preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible while delivering beautiful, long-lasting results. Located conveniently across from Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, we serve patients from Corona del Mar, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Mesa Verde, Huntington Beach and throughout Orange County. Whether you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, have visible decay, or simply need a routine examination, our team provides the personalized care and attention you deserve in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Don’t let a cavity progress when treatment is simple and painless. Schedule your appointment by contacting us through our online form today.
Receive high-quality, personalized treatment recommendations from Dr. Saad and get answers to all your smile questions from the comfort of your own home.
Ample secure and safe paid parking located on-site.
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