Fillings

tooth bonding & cavities: treat it while it’s still small

Going in for your routine dental cleaning and hearing you have a cavity may not be the news you want to hear. We’re here to assure you that fillings are a very common treatment and can affect people of all ages. Cavities start as small decay from buildup of plaque and bacteria and will grow overtime if left untreated. Dental fillings are a restorative method to help prevent further damage to your tooth.

We can also use tooth bonding to fix chipped or cracked teeth and even discoloration. Overall, fillings can be used to restore the tooth’s shape and protect it from further damage. Fillings are important because they help to preserve your natural teeth from greater damage.

Why Choose Dr. Kim for prevention and maintenance?

Unparalleled Expertise

As a prosthodontist, Dr. Kim is a specialist in this exact procedure. An additional 3 years of extensive residency training after dental school gives her unique know-how to see your case more comprehensively and understand the complexities of a healthy bite.

Cutting-Edge Technology

Every detail in dentistry matters. Dr. Kim works with the best-in-class team who also values modern technology and has hand-picked every tool, material, and component used on your tooth to optimize the longevity of your dental work.

Empowered Education

It is paramount that you feel empowered about your teeth & dental care. Dr. Kim enjoys simplifying what is complex about dentistry. She intentionally embeds time necessary (without extra cost) to fully discuss all your questions.

Trusted Results

Your work should last and look fantastic. Other dentists love working with Dr. Kim because she quarterbacks your care and delivers with consistent excellence. Other health professionals go to her for their own dental care. Our motto is: Do dental work once, maintain it for life.v

the process

STEP 1

Comprehensive Oral Exam:
‍We will review your medical & dental history. X-rays will be taken to check on bone level and cavities that can only be seen on an x-ray. Dr. Kim will perform a thorough exam of your teeth, gums, and complete an oral cancer screening.

STEP 2

Decay Removal: Advanced tools will be used thoroughly yet gently to remove all the decay.

STEP 3

Cleaning the Cavity:
Dr. Kim will ensure that all bacteria or debris that may cause any further damage to your tooth is cleaned out.

STEP 4

Fill the Tooth: Using the best material for your tooth, Dr. Kim will fill it to restore it back to its natural shape.

STEP 5

Set the Filling: Once Dr. Kim has filled your tooth, she will seal it with an LED curing light. This helps to ensure the tooth is sealed and protected.

WHY US

What Makes Montvale Prosthodontics Unique?

We value relationships and have your best interest at heart.



Our patients often comment that they have never had an exam as thorough as ours.



Modern dental solutions make it easy for you to have a bright, even, healthy smile.

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FAQ

How do I know if I need a dental filling?

Some key indications of needing a filling are sensitivity, pain or even holes in the tooth. Contact us if you’re experiencing any issues before any symptoms progress.

What is a composite filling?

Composite is the most common type of material for a dental filling consisting of resin and powdered glass filler. A composite filling is durable, tooth-colored so your smile can remain natural-looking while protecting your teeth.

What is an amalgam filling?

An amalgam filling, also known as a “silver filling” is a type of material consisting of a mixture of metals. Amalgam fillings have been considered safe by the FDA and ADA. There are specific types of cases that require amalgam over composite.

Should I replace my amalgam filling with composite?

While composite fillings are more visibly appealing, if your amalgam filling is within good standing, it’s not recommended to replace your amalgam filling. When removing your current restoration, this may require us to remove even more of your healthy, natural tooth structure to place a new filling. Unless your filling has damage that needs to be addressed, it’s best to keep them.

Are dental fillings painful?

When you do a dental filling, it is generally painless. In the office, we use local anesthesia to numb the area so you don’t feel a thing while the doctor is performing treatment. Once the numbing effect has worn off you may feel some minor sensitivity. This is normal and will wear off in a matter of days. The feeling of an untreated cavity is more painful than treating it!

What if I decide to not get a filling for my cavity?

Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse a cavity. Once there’s decay present, it will start to spread and cause further damage to your tooth if not treated. It’s always best to take action in the early stages, as waiting will lead to more invasive and expensive procedures such as root canals and extractions.