Fillings

Fillings are a treatment option that is used to save and restore teeth damaged by decay. Dr. Borisson will look for the right color to match your natural teeth to any filling she applies to cover a cavity.

Fillings Q & A

What Is a Filling?

A filling is a relatively simple procedure that is used to restore teeth after they have been damaged by decay. During your appointment, Dr. Borisson will begin the process byremoving any decayed portion of the tooth which will leavea hole or gap. The doctor will then proceed to fill the gap using filling material.

What Are Some Different Kinds of Filling Materials?

There are four main types of filling materials: porcelain, composite resin, gold, and silver amalgam. Porcelain fillings are the most desired since they are the color of your teeth and can resist staining over time due to their non-porous material. However, porcelain fillings can be quite pricey. Composite resin fillings are also the color of your teeth but are less durable than porcelain. Composite resin fillingscan last anywhere fromthree to ten years and are also susceptible to staining from food and drink. Gold fillings have a shelf-life of over 20 years but also come with a hefty price. A silver amalgam filling is a much more affordable alternative that offers similar wear resistance. However, silver has a dark appearance that many patients find undesirable especially when applying to the back molars.

What Are Indirect Fillings?

Indirect fillings are used in cases where tooth damage is too advanced to support a traditional dental filling. These filings are custom-manufactured in a laboratory using a special impression of your mouth to achieve an exact fit into the space. This type of filling has a shelf-life of up to 30 years.

How Do You Know if You Need a Filling?

As part of your initial exam, Dr. Borisson will examine your teeth to see if there is any decay present. Fillings are typically necessary for patients with cavities or a chipped tooth.