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Options for dental fillings West Hills Los Angeles, CA

Tooth decay (dental caries) is the most common oral health problem. In fact, it is one of the most common diseases in the world, especially among adolescents and senior citizens. According to CDC (centers for disease control) 20 percent of adults over the age of 65 have untreated tooth decay, and 96 percent have had at least one cavity in their lifetimes. That means nearly everyone will need dental fillings at some point. Fortunately, the procedure is fast and comfortable, with several options available at Royal Dental Practice in West Hills Los Angeles, CA.

About the dental filling procedure

“Are dental fillings painful?” That is the first question many people ask. With our gentle and precise techniques, the answer is, “no.” The procedure is completed in one appointment, and it takes just a few steps:

  • Comfort – At Royal Dental Practice, your comfort comes first, quite literally. The first step of the procedure is numbing the area to ensure painless treatment. We also offer sedation (sleep dentistry) for those who find dental treatment stressful or frightening.
  • Preparation – Your dentist will remove the diseased and damaged portion of the tooth. The area is cleaned and shaped for optimal filling retention.
  • Tooth filling – The dental filling material is placed directly in the cavity and shaped to match the contours of your tooth.

Protect Your Smile: A Simple Solution For Tooth Decay with Dental Fillings

Protect Your Smile: A Simple Solution For Tooth Decay with Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are restorative materials to fix broken, decayed, or cracked teeth. When a tooth is affected by cavities, the decay must be removed to prevent further damage and infection.

What are dental fillings, and why are they necessary?

Dental fillings are restorative materials to fix broken, decayed, or cracked teeth. When a tooth is affected by cavities, the decay must be removed to prevent further damage and infection. Fillings are necessary to restore the tooth’s structure, function, and appearance after removing decayed material. They help prevent the spread of decay and protect the tooth from bacteria, ensuring its longevity. Additionally, fillings restore the tooth’s ability to chew properly and maintain its aesthetic appeal, particularly in visible areas. By addressing dental issues promptly with fillings, patients can avoid more extensive treatments, such as root canals or extractions, ultimately preserving their natural teeth and oral health.

What materials are used for dental fillings?

Several materials can be used for dental fillings, each with unique properties and benefits. The most common materials include:

  1.   Amalgam: A durable, silver-colored filling made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, and tin. Amalgam is often used for back teeth due to its strength and longevity.
  2.   Composite Resin: A tooth-colored filling made from a mixture of plastic and glass. Composite resin fillings are aesthetically pleasing and can be matched to the color of natural teeth, making them ideal for visible areas.
  3.   Ceramic: These fillings are made from porcelain and provide excellent aesthetics and durability. They are stain-resistant and can closely resemble natural tooth enamel.
  4.   Glass Ionomer: A fluoride-releasing substance that is tooth-colored and can help shield teeth from additional decay. Glass ionomer often fills areas not subject to heavy chewing pressure.
  5.   Resin Ionomer: Similar to glass ionomer, this material contains added resins for improved strength and aesthetics. It’s often used for fillings in areas where aesthetics are a concern.

Each material has advantages, and it is selected based on factors like the location of the filling, the extent of decay, and the patient’s dental health needs.

How is a dental filling procedure performed?

The dental filling procedure usually consists of multiple steps to guarantee a comprehensive and successful treatment. To determine the degree of decay, the dentist first thoroughly examines the impacted tooth, frequently using X-rays. Once decay is confirmed, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring the patient is comfortable during the procedure.

Next, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill or other specialized instruments. After removing all decay, the dentist cleans the cavity to eliminate debris and bacteria. The dentist may apply a liner to protect the tooth’s pulp before placing the filling material.

The chosen filling material is then carefully placed into the cavity, shaped, and polished to ensure a proper bite and smooth surface. Finally, the dentist instructs the patient on post-treatment care and schedules follow-up appointments if needed. The entire procedure typically takes about an hour, depending on the extent of the decay.

How long do dental fillings last?

Some variables affect how long dental fillings last, including the material used, the filling’s location, the patient’s oral hygiene practices, and the amount of wear and tear the filling endures.

On average, amalgam fillings can last between 10 to 15 years, making them durable for back teeth. Composite resin fillings generally last about 5 to 10 years, while ceramic and glass ionomer fillings may last around 5 to 15 years, depending on usage.

Proper oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups, can significantly extend the life of dental fillings. Additionally, avoiding hard or sticky foods can help prevent premature wear. If a filling shows signs of wear, damage, or decay, it’s essential to consult with a dentist promptly to determine if replacement or repair is necessary. Regular dental visits can help monitor the condition of existing fillings and address any issues before they escalate.


Types of dental fillings

During your consultation, we will discuss options and answer your questions so that you can decide what is right for you. There are two choices:

  • Cosmetic composite fillings – These are made from a metal-free resin material, which is colored to precisely match tooth enamel. Your tooth will look whole and natural once the procedure is complete; no one will ever guess you had a cavity. This is the most popular choice for a front tooth filling.
  • Silver amalgam filling – These are made from a metal alloy, which looks silver when first placed. Over time the filling may darken and become blackish. Most people do not want amalgam fillings in visible areas for cosmetic reasons. However, they have the advantage of being stronger than composite, and generally lasting longer.

A case of decay closer to the gum line at Royal Dental Practice - Dr. Roya Shoffet

A case of decay closer to the gum line at Royal Dental Practice - Dr. Roya Shoffet
In this video Dr. Roya Shoffet explains how she has managed a case of decay closer to the gum line of the patient. Watch the video to understand the case better.

Hello everyone, this lovely patient of ours came today, and I noticed that she had developed a decay close to the gum line.

She was undergoing orthodontia, so I believe she developed this decay due to some food debris collecting at the gum line.

Luckily she was here soon enough, and we did the bonding, provided composite filling, and restored her cavities.

This is immediately after, so the gum is irritated. But she’s happy that we got it right away, and it’s beautiful all over again.

Call us at Royal Dental Practice for all your dental needs.


Are you ready to repair your smile?

No matter what type of tooth filling you choose, you can count on us to provide quality treatment and five-star customer service. Just call (818) 334-6655 and arrange a consultation to discuss your options.

Dr. Roya Shoffer Yaghoubian
Bringing over 30 years of creative talent, skill, experience, and knowledge Dr. Roya Shoffet-Yaghoubian is a phenomenal doctor. Her drive to achieve the best result has earned her a spotless reputation in terms of dental excellence and as a great person, kind and empathetic towards the needs of her patients.

Her dental education at USC School of Dentistry and her long life eagerness for learning thru extensive courses and numerous seminars has brought her to become this successful passionate dentist that all her patients appreciate very much and travel from near and far. Dr. Roya Shoffet-Yaghoubian is a member of American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and San Fernando Valley Dental Society. Her capabilities range from all aspects of general dentistry including cosmetic dentistry to more complex restorative and periodontics, and oral surgery for all ages especially highly experienced and well known for geriatric dentistry, giving her patients a variety of options under the same roof.

Connect with Dr. Roya Shoffet on Linkedin