Dental Fillings in Smyrna, DE

Don’t Let Cavities Disrupt Your Daily Life

Cavities can turn simple tasks like eating or smiling into sources of discomfort. Dental fillings provide a reliable way to stop decay in its tracks and bring back the strength of affected teeth. Regular dental care is essential for preventing cavities and maintaining oral health. Cavities are caused by decay-causing bacteria, which thrive on sweet foods and poor oral hygiene. Residents in Smyrna, DE, along with those from nearby Dover, Clayton, and Middletown, can find effective solutions to maintain their oral health without delay.

At Glenwood Dental Associates, our Smyrna dental team delivers dental fillings to ease pain from cavities and avoid bigger problems down the line. Call us today at (302) 653-5011 to set up your visit and start on the path to a healthier smile.

Glenwood Dental Associates, Your Local Smyrna Dentist

Glenwood Dental Associates stands as a trusted provider in Smyrna, DE, led by Dr. Brian A. Wisk, DMD. With a degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and residency training at Christiana Care, Dr. Wisk brings years of knowledge in general and restorative dentistry. Our team of experienced dentists is dedicated to providing a wide range of dental restorations. The practice focuses on building lasting bonds with patients of all ages through clear communication and modern methods that make visits efficient and comfortable.

Situated at 17 West Glenwood Avenue, the office sits conveniently near Citizens Bank and across from Glenwood Cemetery, making it easy for locals to access. We serve the community with a range of care, from preventive checkups to advanced restorations, all in a welcoming space equipped with current technology. 

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are a common type of dental restoration used to repair teeth damaged by tooth decay or injury. When tooth decay creates a cavity in a tooth, the decayed portion is removed through tooth preparation, and the cavity is filled with a restorative material such as amalgam or composite. This process restores the function and structure of the tooth, prevents further decay, and helps maintain oral health. The filled tooth is sealed to block bacteria and stop infection from spreading. Fillings also fix teeth worn down by use or cracked from accidents, helping preserve natural tooth structure for better function and appearance.

With dental fillings at our Smyrna, DE, dental office, patients gain support in several ways:

• Strengthening the tooth to resist further breakdown.
• Reducing sensitivity that makes hot or cold foods uncomfortable.
• Enhancing the look of teeth with materials that match natural shades.
• Supporting long-term chewing and speaking without issues.
• Avoiding the need for more extensive treatments later.
• Monitoring a newly filled tooth for sensitivity or complications to ensure proper healing.
• Ensuring proper tooth preparation for the longevity and success of the filled tooth.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are several types of fillings, each with unique properties and benefits. The choice of type of filling depends on factors such as location, durability, and aesthetics. The dental filling material selected for a restoration is based on clinical needs and patient preferences. Direct fillings are placed in a single visit, while indirect fillings require two visits and are fabricated outside the mouth. Choosing the right restorative material is important for long-term success and patient satisfaction.

Different materials suit various needs based on location, durability, and appearance. We make use of mostly modern dental filling materials, but have knowledge of other filling material types in case patients may come to us wanting them replaced.

Composite Fillings

Composite resin is a tooth-colored composite material used for aesthetic restorations. These use a blend of resin and fine particles that mimic tooth color for a natural finish. Composite resin fillings are a popular choice for front teeth due to their cosmetic appeal. Tooth colored composite resin provides a natural appearance that blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth. 

Composite materials and composite resins are used for both direct and indirect restorations, offering versatility in restorative dentistry. They attach directly to the tooth surface, offering solid hold while allowing minimal removal of healthy parts. Patients often choose them for front teeth since they blend well and resist staining over time.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam restorations have been used for decades and are made from amalgam material, including silver, tin, and other components. Dental amalgam, dental amalgam fillings, and dental amalgams are terms used to describe these metal-based restorations. 

Silver amalgam fillings are common options for back teeth due to their strength and affordability. Made from a mix of metals like silver and tin, these provide strong resistance to wear in back teeth. They have served reliably for generations due to their ability to handle heavy chewing forces. Though visible with a metallic shade, they offer cost savings and last longer in high-stress areas.

Ceramic Fillings 

Indirect fillings are fabricated in a dental laboratory and then placed in the mouth. Crafted from porcelain, these deliver a tooth-like look with high strength against cracks. The process involves taking an impression and sending it to a dental laboratory for the final restoration, which is then cemented in place. They fit well in visible spots and hold up against daily use without discoloring. Custom shaping ensures they integrate smoothly for comfort and function.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are another type of indirect restoration made in a dental laboratory. Alloyed with other metals, gold options stand out for their longevity in molars. Labs create them for a precise fit that reduces gaps where bacteria could enter. While pricier and less aesthetically pleasing, they are more durable than other materials.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer cements have unique properties, such as releasing fluoride to guard against new decay nearby. Other components, such as resins and pigments, can be added to modify the properties of glass ionomer cements. They suit areas with low bite pressure, like roots or children’s teeth. Their gentle application makes them ideal for sensitive cases, though they may wear faster than metal types.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings bring real improvements to daily life beyond just fixing a hole. They help people enjoy meals again and smile with confidence. At our Smyrna, DE practice, we see how these treatments transform oral health for the better.

• Decay Prevention: Fillings seal off cavities to keep bacteria out, stopping small issues from growing into larger ones that could require root canals or extractions. This proactive step saves teeth and reduces future visits. Fillings also help prevent further decay and lower the risk of recurrent decay by reinforcing the tooth and blocking new bacteria from entering.
• Tooth Strength Restoration: By replacing lost material, fillings rebuild the tooth’s core structure, making it stable for biting and chewing. This means less risk of breaks during normal activities like eating nuts or apples.
• Pain Reduction: Cavities often cause sharp aches or throbbing, but fillings remove the damaged parts and cover nerves, bringing quick relief. Many patients report feeling better right after the procedure, with lingering sensitivity fading soon.
• Appearance Improvement: Modern materials like composites or ceramics match tooth shades closely, hiding repairs in smiles. This boosts self-esteem, especially for fillings in front areas where gaps or dark spots once showed.
• Long-Lasting Results: Depending on care and material, fillings can endure for years, providing value through fewer replacements. Good habits like brushing extend their life, keeping costs down over time.
• Function Maintenance: Restored teeth work as they should, supporting clear speech and efficient eating. Without fillings, uneven surfaces could lead to jaw strain or digestive troubles from poor chewing.
• Affordable Care Option: Compared to crowns or implants, cavity fillings offer a budget-friendly fix for early damage. Insurance coverage and dental insurance can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for cavity fillings, as many plans cover a significant portion of the expense, making it accessible for routine needs.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Fillings

Not every tooth problem calls for a filling, but certain signs point to this treatment as the right choice. Our dentist in Smyrna, DE, assesses each case to match the best approach.

• People with Early Cavities: If decay hasn’t reached the tooth’s inner layers, fillings work well to clean and seal the area. Regular checkups catch these spots before they worsen.
• Those Experiencing Tooth Sensitivity: Sudden discomfort from sweets, heat, or cold often signals a cavity ready for filling. Addressing it early prevents deeper issues.
• Patients with Minor Cracks or Chips: Accidents or grinding can damage enamel, and fillings can repair these without needing full coverage like crowns.
• Individuals Seeking Cosmetic Fixes: Discolored or uneven teeth from wear benefit from tooth-colored fillings that blend in seamlessly.
• Adults and Children Alike: Fillings suit all ages, from kids with baby teeth decay to seniors managing long-term wear.
• Those Committed to Oral Hygiene: Candidates who brush and floss regularly get the most from fillings, as good habits help them last longer.

If you are unsure whether a filling is right for you, discuss treatment options with your dentist. They can help you understand the benefits and risks of different treatment options and determine the best approach for your needs.

The Dental Filling Process With Dr. Wisk

The dental filling procedure at Glenwood Dental Associates in Smyrna, DE, follows a straightforward series of steps. We prioritize comfort throughout.

1. Examination and Planning: The dentist checks the tooth with X-rays and tools to map the decay’s extent. If the decay is too deep, a root canal may be recommended instead of a filling. This guides dental material choice and tooth preparation.
2. Numbing the Area: A local anesthetic numbs the spot to keep the process pain-free. It takes effect quickly for a relaxed experience.
3. Removing Decay: Using a drill or laser, damaged parts come out, leaving a clean space. Tooth preparation also involves smoothing any sharp edges to ensure a proper fit for the filling and to avoid discomfort.
4. Shaping the Cavity: The area gets refined for a secure fit, ensuring the filling holds without gaps.
5. Placing the Material: The selected dental material is used to fill the cavity, sometimes in layers, building up to match the tooth’s shape. If a permanent restoration cannot be completed in one visit, a temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until the final restoration is ready.
6. Hardening and Adjusting: A light sets resin types, or metals, that settle naturally. Bite checks confirm proper alignment. The final restoration is shaped and polished for optimal function and appearance.
7. Polishing the Surface: Final smoothing creates a natural feel and look, blending with surrounding teeth. The dentist will carefully remove any rough edges for patient comfort. Afterward, a desensitizing agent may be applied to reduce sensitivity in the filled tooth.

How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost?

Costs for dental fillings typically range from $100 to $300, varying by material and cavity size. Factors like location in Smyrna, DE, and procedure details influence the final amount. Insurance coverage and dental insurance can help offset the cost of dental fillings, including silver amalgam fillings. Silver amalgam fillings are often the most affordable option and are commonly covered by insurance. Many insurance plans help cover these essentials—our team at Glenwood Dental Associates can review your coverage when you call (302) 653-5011.

Reclaim Your Comfort with Dental Fillings Today

Dental fillings in Smyrna restore more than teeth—they bring back ease in everyday moments. From stopping pain to strengthening bites, this common treatment keeps smiles strong. If tooth issues linger, a simple visit can make all the difference.

Reach out to Glenwood Dental Associates in Smyrna, DE, by calling (302) 653-5011. Whether you’re local or from Dover, Clayton, or Middletown, our doors are open for your care.