Dental Fillings in Whitehouse Station, NJ

Painless Dental Fillings at Lasting Smiles of Whitehouse Station

If you’re experiencing discomfort in one or more teeth, it might be time to consider a dental filling. At Lasting Smiles of Whitehouse Station, Dr. Thomas Gulino, our esteemed dentist in New Jersey, offers a range of dental filling options tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a minor cavity or a more significant tooth injury, Dr. Gulino is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

If you’re in Tewksbury, Lebanon, or the surrounding areas, trust your smile to Dr. Gulino and the dental team at Lasting Smiles of Whitehouse Station. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, call us at (908) 534-4001. 

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings serve a vital role in restoring the integrity of damaged or decayed teeth by sealing the affected area with filling material. Whether addressing cracks, fractures, or wear caused by grinding, dental fillings provide a solution to preserve the tooth’s function and structure and prevent tooth decay. The process of receiving dental fillings is straightforward and minimally invasive, eliminating the need for extensive dental surgery.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Choosing dental fillings offers numerous advantages for your oral and overall health, including:

• Preventing Future Decay: Fillings shield the remaining healthy tooth structure from potential decay, ensuring long-term dental health.
• Restoring Tooth Functionality: By filling affected teeth, normal biting and chewing functions can be restored, enhancing overall dental function.
• Preserving Natural Aesthetics: Fillings can be precisely matched to the color of your natural teeth, seamlessly blending in to maintain your smile’s natural appearance.
• Relieving Discomfort: Experience relief from the discomfort caused by tooth decay, thanks to the pain-relieving properties of fillings. Fillings will shield the nerves in your teeth from hot, cold, and chewing pressure.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Fillings

Your Whitehouse Station dentist will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of treatment. We use fillings to treat a range of dental problems, including the following:

• Cavities
• Worn-down teeth
• Damaged teeth
• Cracked or chipped teeth

Types of Dental Fillings

We know not every patient is the same. At Lasting Smiles of Whitehouse Station, we provide a variety of dental filling options to fit our patient’s needs:

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made from powdered glass and acrylic resin. They can be color-matched to the natural shade of your teeth, making them a popular choice for filling cavities in visible areas. However, if you have a large area that needs to be filled, it’s not advisable to pick this option since it wears quickly over time.

Resin or Glass Ionomer Fillings

Resin or glass ionomer fillings are commonly used for both adults and children with cavities. These fillings, made from a mixture of glass and acrylic materials, release fluoride, aiding in cavity prevention. They’re particularly suitable for children with small areas of decay on their primary teeth or for filling small cavities in areas not subjected to heavy chewing forces.

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings, also known as ceramic fillings, are highly durable and resistant to staining, much like dental veneers and composite fillings. They’re made from a tooth-colored ceramic material, giving off a natural appearance. Produced in labs, they’re bonded to teeth and offer excellent stain resistance, making them a suitable option for fillings in visible areas.

The Dental Fillings Process at Lasting Smiles

Initial Examination and Diagnosis

Before getting a dental filling, your Whitehouse Station dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. He’ll use dental instruments and X-rays to identify cavities and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Anesthesia and Preparation

Once the cavity is identified, Dr. Gulino will numb the area using a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. He’ll then remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill. If decay near the root is found, you may need a liner made from composite resin or other material placed to protect the nerve.

Filling Placement

After the decay is removed, your dentist will clean the cavity and prepare it for the filling material. The chosen filling material will be placed in layers and shaped to fit the cavity precisely. From there, we’ll cure the material using a special light.

Bite Adjustment

Your dentist will check the fit of the filling and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite is comfortable and aligned properly.

Final Polishing

Once the filling is in place and your bite is adjusted, Dr. Gulino will polish the filling to smooth out any rough edges and ensure a natural appearance.

Aftercare and Maintenance

After your filling procedure, Dr. Gulino will provide you with instructions for caring for your newly filled tooth. Here are some common tips to help your fillings last the longest:

• Sensitivity and Pain Management: It’s normal to experience some sensitivity or discomfort after getting a filling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any pain or discomfort.
• Oral Hygiene Practices: Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the longevity of your dental fillings. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent further decay.
• Dietary Recommendations: Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage your fillings. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support overall oral health.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor the condition of your fillings and address any concerns early on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs that I might need a filling?

Common signs of tooth decay include toothaches, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, visible pits or holes in the teeth, and dark spots on the surface of the teeth. If you experience any of these signs, contact your dentist and ask them about your options for fillings. 

How long do dental fillings last?

On average, dental fillings last between seven and 15 years. To get the most out of your restoration, you should practice good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups.

How do I choose the right dentist for dental fillings?

When choosing a dentist for dental fillings, consider the following:

• Experience: Look for a dentist with extensive experience in placing dental fillings.
• Credentials: Ensure that the dentist is licensed and registered with the appropriate dental organizations.
• Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your general practitioner.
• Equipment and facilities: Check that the dentist has access to modern equipment and facilities to ensure the highest quality of care.
• Communication and bedside manner: Choose a dentist who listens to your concerns and has a good bedside manner.
• Insurance and financial options: Make sure the dentist accepts your insurance and provides flexible financing options for payment.

How do I prepare for a dental filling appointment?

Before your dental filling appointment, you should:

• Brush and floss your teeth: Good oral hygiene is important before a dental filling appointment.
• Eat a light meal: You may be numb for several hours after the procedure, so it’s a good idea to eat a light meal before your appointment.
• Inform the dentist of any medical conditions: Let your dentist know of any medical conditions or medications you’re taking, as they may affect the procedure.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment.
• Arrive early: Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
• Bring your insurance information: Make sure you bring your insurance information with you to your appointment.

Protect Your Smile With Us! Call Us!

Our team at Lasting Smiles of Whitehouse Station proudly serves the communities of Whitehouse Station and surrounding areas, such as Branchburg, Tewksbury, and Lebanon, NJ. If you think you would benefit from dental fillings, give Lasting Smiles of Whitehouse Station a call at (908) 534-4001 and schedule a free consultation today. You can also book an appointment online, and one of our staff members will get back to you shortly. We look forward to seeing you soon!