At Bearley Dental in Charlottesville, Virginia, we offer patients options to restore damaged teeth with fillings to match the shade of their teeth and smile.

Cavities are the areas of the tooth that are damaged by bacteria. When food debris remains in teeth for too long, bacteria begin to build, and tooth decay starts. The longer a cavity is present, the larger it becomes, making the damaged area bigger and the tooth weaker.  Once the decay reaches the second layer of tissue called the dentin it will spread much faster because the dentin is softer than enamel.  It is essential that you visit your dentist to treat cavities when they are discovered to prevent the decay from spreading.

What Is a Filling Made Of

Tooth fillings are made of different materials and provide different looks and strengths. The dentist will discuss with you on the type of filling that would be the best suitable for your cavity, based on the look you prefer and the placement in the mouth. Dental cavity treatment begins with removing the decay from the enamel and dentin. The dentist will then proceed with the tooth-colored (composite) filling to bring the tooth to its standard shape and function.

Before treating the cavity, the dentist will administer an anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the repair. The anesthesia administered will wear off quickly, and you can return to your normal activities.

The materials available for fillings include gold, although rarely chosen due to cost.  Amalgam is another choice but due to the mercury that is present in these fillings, most people choose not to use these. Porcelain is the popular choice for fillings that require strength but also need to be color-matched. Dentists use porcelain to fabricate Inlays and Onlays, larger fillings covering significant portions of the tooth. Composite resin fillings are the most popular and more economical than porcelain and suitable for color-matching.  Dentists also use composite resin to repair chipped, broken, or worn-down teeth.

Protect your teeth from future damage with regular dental visits

Once we fix the damage to your teeth, we will continue to work with you to protect your oral health from future issues. Regular dental visits for cleanings and exams, combined with good home hygiene practices, can save on both time and the money spent on trips to the dentist and ensure a healthy smile for years to come. 

The team at Bearley Dental will continue to work on protecting your teeth from future damage. We invite patients in Charlottesville, Crozet, VA, and nearby communities to schedule regular visits for cleanings and exams to maintain optimal oral health. Visit our practice at 901 Preston Avenue, Suite #200 in Charlottesville, VA, or call us at (434) 443-8034 to schedule a consultation.