Dr. John and Dr. Sara Gotwalt place dental fillings in their Lititz, PA dentist office to address tooth damage, decay, or minor cosmetic concerns. Dental fillings protect teeth as well as add strength and durability. Depending on your dental health needs, location of the affected tooth, or cosmetic goals, Dr. John or Dr. Sara will recommend the appropriate type of filling for a lasting result.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, or wear. When bacteria create cavities in your tooth enamel, or when a tooth becomes chipped or fractured, fillings restore the tooth’s structure and function. The procedure involves removing the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and “filling” the space with a durable material that protects the tooth from further damage.
Fillings serve multiple important purposes beyond simply filling a hole. They prevent bacteria from entering the tooth’s inner layers, which could lead to more serious infections or the need for root canal therapy. Additionally, fillings restore your ability to chew comfortably and maintain proper bite alignment. Modern dental fillings can last many years with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution for preserving your natural teeth and avoiding more extensive dental work in the future.
How Dental Fillings Work
The dental filling process at our Lititz office is straightforward and typically completed in a single visit. Dr. John or Dr. Sara Gotwalt will first numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Using specialized dental instruments, they carefully remove all decayed or damaged tooth material, creating a clean space for the filling.
Once the tooth is prepared, the chosen filling material is placed in layers and carefully shaped to match your tooth’s natural contours. For composite fillings, a special curing light hardens each layer instantly. Dr. John or Dr. Sara will then check your bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the filling feels natural and comfortable.
The entire process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the filling. After placement, your filling bonds securely to the tooth structure, immediately restoring strength and protecting against further decay.
Types of Dental Fillings
- Dental Composites – “White Fillings” – Dental composites are also called white fillings. These materials are similar to those used in direct fillings and are tooth colored. Their strength and durability are not as high as porcelain or metal restorations, but they offer natural-looking results.
- Amalgam Dental Fillings – Comprised of silver and mercury, amalgam fillings were the standard for many years and are used in certain situations today. In most cases, a white filling is recommended for better aesthetics.
- Gold Dental Fillings – Gold fillings are one of the preferred types of fillings because they offer unparalleled strength and durability. Gold fillings are extremely comfortable and compatible with teeth and are well-suited for the restoration of teeth in the back of the mouth.
- Porcelain Dental Fillings – Porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable), but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are aesthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
Sealants vs. Dental Fillings
While fillings are used for teeth that have been affected by decay or other damage, dental sealants are used to prevent decay. Tooth sealants are highly effective and often used on children’s permanent teeth. Sealants are a simple procedure in which a tooth-colored acrylic “coating” is painted onto the surface of the tooth. This effectively “seals” the deep grooves, acting as a barrier and protecting tooth enamel from plaque and acid erosion.
Sealants protect the depressions and grooves of your teeth from food particles and plaque that brushing and flossing often can’t reach. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and can last several years before a reapplication is needed.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Don’t let tooth decay or damage compromise your oral health. The experienced team at our Lititz dental office is here to provide comfortable, high-quality dental fillings that protect your teeth and restore your confident smile. Whether you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, have noticed a cavity, or simply need a routine checkup, Dr. John and Dr. Sara Gotwalt are committed to delivering personalized care in a welcoming environment.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward optimal dental health.