Fillings and Sealants

Tooth Fillings and Sealants

What is a tooth filling?

A filling is a simple restoration procedure primarily used to restore cavities or other mild decay or deterioration. Fillings are extremely common and have a high success rate. We offer options for composite fillings and amalgam fillings—both are safe. Which type we use depends on your needs, but we commonly use composite fillings because they are tooth-colored and appear more natural for teeth that are visible and easier for others to see or notice.

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are a thin coating that is painted on teeth to protect them from cavities, they are typically used in children but can be used in adults as well. This preventative treatment lowers the chances of developing cavities in the deep chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Because these grooves, pits, and fissures are narrow and difficult to clean with a toothbrush, they’re some of the areas that develop cavities first. By placing sealants over your chewing surfaces, we essentially create a shallower area that’s smoother and easier to clean with a toothbrush. That way there’s little to no residual bacteria left inside of the grooves following your typical brushing routine. Sealants are a quick and affordable option to prevent cavities and tooth fillings.