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Fillings
Cavities happen—even when you’re brushing and flossing like a pro. The good news is that treating them is easier, faster, and more comfortable than ever. At O’Shea Family Dental, we use modern tooth-colored fillings to repair decay and restore your tooth without the noticeable silver from the past.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is used to restore a tooth damaged by decay. We remove the decayed portion of the tooth, clean the area, and then “fill” the space with a durable material to prevent further damage.
Our office uses composite resin, a safe, strong, and natural-looking material that blends in with your smile. These fillings are often called tooth-colored fillings, a popular choice for kids and adults.
Why Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings don’t just do the job—they do it well and look great doing it. Here’s why patients love them:
- Blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color
- Bond directly to the tooth for added strength
- Contain no metal or mercury
- Long-lasting and durable with proper care
- Great for small and mid-sized cavities in visible areas
What to Expect During the Procedure
Getting a filling at O’Shea Family Dental is a simple, one-visit procedure:
- We numb the area to keep you comfortable throughout
- The decayed part of the tooth is gently removed
- The area is cleaned and prepped
- We place and shape the composite material, then harden it with a special light
- We polish and adjust the filling for a natural feel and bite
Most appointments take less than an hour, and you can return to your day as usual with a healthier tooth and a smooth, natural look.
Signs You May Need a Filling
Sometimes cavities are obvious, and sometimes they’re sneaky. Let us know if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- A persistent toothache
- A visible dark spot or hole in your tooth
- Food getting stuck in the same area often
We’ll take a look, take some X-rays if needed, and let you know the best next step.
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Let’s Take Care of That Cavity with Fillings
Cavities happen. Fillings fix them. It’s that simple. If you or your child needs a dental filling, we’ll make the experience easy, comfortable, and judgment-free. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and let’s help you get your smile back on track!
Frequently Asked Questions
Tooth-colored fillings harden right away, so you can eat whenever you're ready. We do recommend waiting until the numbness wears off, which usually takes one to three hours. That way you won't accidentally bite your cheek, lip, or tongue.
Yes, some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is common for a few days to a couple of weeks. It usually fades on its own. If it lingers, gets worse, or your bite feels uneven, give us a call. A quick adjustment often solves the problem.
Absolutely. Many patients replace their old metal fillings with tooth-colored ones, whether for a more natural look or because the old fillings are cracked or worn. Dr. O'Shea will check your current fillings and let you know which ones are good candidates for replacement.
Cavities don't heal on their own. Over time, decay can spread deeper into the tooth and cause pain or infection. At that point, you may need a crown or root canal instead of a simple filling. Treating a cavity early keeps things quick, comfortable, and affordable.
It depends on how much of the tooth is damaged. Fillings work well for small to mid-sized areas of decay. If a large part of the tooth is weakened or cracked, a crown may be needed to protect it. We'll help you choose the best option.
Yes. Tooth-colored fillings are a safe, gentle way to treat cavities in children. We take our time, explain each step, and do everything we can to help young patients feel relaxed and comfortable in our chair.
Went in with a broken tooth
Based on his advice ended up doing an extraction due to the existing tooth condition
Was in and out in no time with no pain during the procedure
Happy to recommend!
I went to my first O'Shea family dental appointment and am absolutely thrilled to have my new family dentist. Dr. Shea is AWESOME. Extremely friendly and ridiculously thorough. Just a wonderful appointment. Beautiful, sparkling clean modern office also
I’ve been a patient of Dr. O’Shea’s for several years now, and I couldn’t be more impressed with his new office! The space is absolutely beautiful. Dr. O’Shea is attentive, thorough, and genuinely cares about his patients. This new office is a perfect reflection of the high standard he sets. I highly recommend Dr. O’Shea to anyone looking for excellent care.
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