Fillings are a versatile treatment that restores the structure of a tooth following a restorative treatment. If you are planning to undergo cavity treatment at our Valdosta, Georgia dental practice, Dr. Brett Hester, a second-generation dentist, can artfully apply fillings to ensure that your teeth remain strong and healthy. If you are unhappy with the appearance of old metal amalgam fillings, Dr. Hester can remove the unsightly restoration and replace it with tooth-colored composite resin.

Benefits of Fillings

Fillings offer many oral health benefits. The treatment can be completed in well under an hour, and many dental insurance plans cover most or all of the cost associated with the preventative treatment. Even if you do have to pay out of pocket, the procedure is highly affordable. Our office accepts CareCredit and Lending Club financing.

To schedule your cavity treatment or to learn more about fillings at our office online or please call (229) 247-3400.

If you have amalgam fillings placed over molars, you can benefit from a very strong material that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting. Patients who have tooth-colored fillings placed can enjoy additional benefits, such as:

  • Reduced sensitivity: If you have untreated cavities, you already understand how the dental problem can lead to increased sensitivity, especially to hot and cold liquids. Once your tooth-colored fillings are placed, you can begin enjoying cold beverages and frozen treats without fear of unexpected discomfort.
  • Restored oral health: If your tooth has been damaged, fillings can restore strength, function, and structure to your tooth. Amalgam or composite fillings place a protective barrier between the inner layer of your tooth and the outside environment. This property shields your tooth from further damage. Once Dr. Hester has placed your restoration, you can even enjoy improved bite balance and chewing efficiency.
  • Natural-looking results: Composite resin matches the natural color and luster of enamel. The material contains bits of quartz and silica that gives it a natural reflective property. Dr. Hester will shade-match the fillings to blend in with your natural teeth.

Are you a candidate?

Anyone who is about to undergo cavity treatment is a candidate for fillings. The safe and durable material is placed following the removal of infection and decay from your tooth. Candidates for fillings often have risk factors for tooth decay, such as:

  • Young or advanced age
  • Poor oral hygiene habits
  • A sugary diet
  • Infrequent dental cleanings
  • Genetic factors

Many parts of your teeth can be effectively treated using tooth-colored fillings. If you have experienced significant decay on one of your molars, you may be a better candidate for silver amalgam, which is more durable. If you have old silver amalgam fillings, Dr. Hester can replace the metal fillings with tooth-colored composite resin.

How are fillings placed?

Once your tooth has been treated and all decay has been removed, Dr. Hester will clean the treatment area. A special etching liquid may be used to ensure that the fillings gain a tight and long-lasting bond with your tooth. Once your tooth has been prepared, Dr. Hester will color-match the composite material to match your natural teeth.

Whether you are having composite resin or amalgam placed, either material will be artfully placed. Dr. Hester will take care to ensure that your fillings lie flush with the surface of your tooth so the material does not interfere with your bite. Any minor adjustments can be made to the hardened material before you are released.

Schedule Your Fillings Treatment Today

Fillings are an affordable and effective treatment that restores strength and structure to your tooth following a restorative treatment. To schedule your cavity treatment or to learn more about fillings, please call (229) 247-3400.