Tooth and Cavity Fillings
Professional Dental Fillings in Virginia Beach
Dental fillings are a common restorative treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay, minor fractures, or wear. They restore the tooth’s function, shape, and appearance by filling the area where damage has occurred.
There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The option chosen is often based on the tooth’s location and the patient’s aesthetic preferences and individual oral health needs.
When Dental Fillings are Important
Dental fillings are essential for protecting the overall health of your teeth. They stop decay from spreading further into the tooth, preserving its structure and function. Fillings are especially important when cavities are severe or located in visible areas, as untreated decay can lead to more extensive damage. By addressing dental issues early with fillings, you can avoid extensive procedures such as crowns, root canals, and extractions.
The Dental Filling Process
Dental fillings provide a safe and effective way to restore damaged or decayed teeth, helping to maintain oral health and prevent further complications.
1 – Numbing the affected area with local anesthesia
2 – Deep cleaning of the treatment area
3 – Preparing the tooth and applying the filling material
4 – Securing and hardening the filling with ultraviolet light
Once the filling is complete, no recovery time is needed. You will be able to resume your day immediately.
White Composite Fillings
White bonded (composite resin) fillings are a metal-free solution for treating cavities while maintaining a natural-looking smile. They offer impressive results and bond directly to your tooth for strength, protection, and reliability.
✔️ Tooth-colored, natural appearance
✔️ Metal-free and biocompatible
✔️ Durable and long-lasting
✔️ Acts as a sealant to protect weakened teeth
Composite fillings have gained popularity because they blend seamlessly with natural tooth color and structure, all while preserving healthy enamel.
Amalgam (Metal) Fillings
Made from a mixture of metals, amalgam fillings are placed directly into the tooth to rebuild strength and restore function. This type of filling may be recommended when strength and longevity are the top priority. While they are more noticeable than tooth-colored fillings, they offer dependable performance in certain restorative situations.
✔️ Extremely wear-resistant
✔️ Cost-effective treatment option
✔️ Silver color that is more visible
✔️ May require removal of additional healthy tooth structure
Not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions. Our Virginia Beach Dentists carefully evaluate your tooth structure and overall health to determine whether an amalgam filling is the right choice for your long-term oral health.
Sedation Dentistry for Dental Fillings
Even minor dental procedures can cause anxiety for some patients, and we understand how important it is to feel at ease during treatment. For this reason, we offer a range of sedation options to help you relax and stay comfortable throughout your procedure. Whether you prefer mild oral sedation or deeper methods, our Virginia Beach sedation dentistry team will review your needs and medical history to select the safest and most effective approach.
Dental Fillings - Virginia Beach, VA
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier smile. Our team is here to provide personalized dental care in a comfortable setting.
CALL US
Working Hours
Visit us during our regular office hours for comfortable, quality dental care.
Monday To Thursday
8am – 4:30pm
Friday – Sunday
CLOSED
Inside Mill Dam Dental
Discover how Dr. Jeffrey R. Leidy and his team provide individualized care.
Smile Gallery
A closer look at our team, our patients, and the care we provide every day.
Meet the Team Behind the Smiles.
From the front desk to the treatment chair, we approach every part of your visit with care. At Mill Dam Dental, you’ll always be treated like family.
Dr. Jeffrey R. Leidy, DMD
D.M.D., M.A.G.D., D.ABDSM, F.A.C.D.
Lauren
Office Manager, Clinical Assistant
Christina
Dental Assistant
Janis, RDH
Dental Hygienist
Judee
Administrative/Clinical Assistant
Cheryl
Dental Hygienist
Chelsea
Dental Assistant
Jennifer
Administrative Assistant
FAQs – Dental Fillings
Anytime you’re considering a treatment, gathering as much information as possible is a smart step. Understanding the process helps you move forward with confidence.
Will getting a filling be painful?
Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure. It’s normal to notice some sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks for a short time after the filling is placed, but this typically subsides as your tooth adjusts.
Are composite resin white fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are safe and have been used in dentistry for decades. They are made from a durable, biocompatible resin that bonds directly to your tooth. Extensive research and testing support their safety and effectiveness, and they are approved for use by dental and health regulatory organizations worldwide.
Are amalgam fillings safe?
Metal, or amalgam, fillings have been used safely in dentistry for over 150 years. They are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, and copper, and provide long-lasting durability for restoring teeth. While small amounts of mercury are present in amalgam, extensive research by dental and health organizations, including the FDA and ADA, supports their safety for most patients. Some individuals with specific allergies or medical conditions may need alternative materials. Your dentist can help determine the best option for your oral health.
How long do dental fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last between 5 and 10 years, depending on their location, your oral hygiene, and daily habits. Metal fillings are more durable and can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene can help extend the lifespan of both types of fillings.
Can composite fillings be whitened?
Composite fillings cannot be whitened like natural teeth because they are made from a plastic-based material that doesn’t respond to whitening treatments. For the most uniform appearance, it’s best to complete any teeth whitening procedures before having composite fillings placed.
How large can a cavity be before a filling isn’t enough?
Fillings work best for small to moderate decay or damage. If a cavity is very deep, affects most of the tooth, or has weakened the structure, a crown or other restorative treatment may be necessary to fully protect the tooth.
Your Healthier Smile Awaits
Experience personalized dental care designed to keep your smile healthy, confident, and bright.