Fillings

Fillings are a great way to strengthen and repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. After a root canal, a filling is placed inside the tooth’s cavity to renew its integrity and prevent further infection. At Chagrin Highlands Dental Group, we can use durable, tooth-colored fillings to restore your tooth’s function, shape, and look!

What Types of Fillings Are There?

We offer two types of dental fillings – tooth-colored resin fillings and porcelain fillings.

Resin fillings are made from a mixture of quartz-like particles and ground acrylic. When mixed, this composite material can be molded into place and hardened to provide a sturdy, reliable restoration. They are designed to match the color of your teeth and provide an economical, natural-looking solution.

Porcelain fillings are more durable and stable than resin. They are often considered a more permanent treatment option. Like resin fillings, porcelain fillings are designed to match the shape and color of your surrounding teeth. Because they are so strong, porcelain fillings are often used in the teeth further back in your mouth.

What Do Fillings Do?

To save a tooth from a severe infection, your dentist will need to perform a root canal and remove any decayed tissue. After he has done this, your tooth will be empty inside. Without a filling, your tooth would be at risk of breaking, cracking, or even becoming infected again.

A dental filling is inserted into this space to restore your tooth’s strength and integrity. Because a filling closes this gap entirely, it also helps prevent bacteria and food particles from making their way into the tooth again. Dental fillings play an important role in keeping your teeth healthy and free from infection.

How Do I Care for My Filling?

Depending on what type of filling you choose, your treatment should last anywhere from five years to a few decades. To ensure your treatment lasts as long as possible, it is important to take proper care of it.

To care for your filling, continue to brush and floss every day. Tooth-colored resin fillings can be stained by dark foods and drinks, so avoid consuming too many coffees and teas. Do not chew on hard substances and avoid tobacco products whenever possible.

If you would like to learn more about tooth-colored resin or porcelain fillings, please call our office at 216-464-9800. Together, we can decide if a filling is the right option for your treatment plan.