Dental fillings restore damaged teeth to their natural function and appearance, preventing further decay while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Modern filling materials and techniques allow us to repair cavities with results so natural-looking and comfortable you’ll forget which teeth were treated, giving you back the confidence to smile and eat without worry about discomfort or embarrassment.
At SmilePro Dental, Dr. Salam Awad provides advanced family care services including state-of-the-art filling treatments designed to restore your teeth with materials matching your natural tooth color and providing long-lasting durability. Our gentle approach and precision techniques ensure every filling procedure is comfortable and delivers optimal results for your oral health and smile aesthetics.
Today’s dental filling options offer superior aesthetics and durability compared to traditional materials, allowing us to choose the best solution for each unique situation. Composite resin fillings represent the most popular choice for most patients, providing excellent color matching and bonding strength while requiring minimal tooth preparation. These tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible even in highly visible areas of your smile.
Amalgam fillings, while less commonly requested today, still provide exceptional durability for large restorations in back teeth where strength is the primary concern. Glass ionomer fillings offer unique benefits for specific applications, particularly in areas prone to decay recurrence, as these fillings release fluoride over time while bonding chemically to the tooth structure. Dr. Awad discusses the advantages and characteristics of each material type during your consultation to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
Dr. Awad begins every filling appointment with a thorough examination and discussion of your treatment options, ensuring you understand the procedure and feel comfortable with the selected approach. Local anesthesia is carefully administered to ensure complete comfort throughout the treatment, with additional anesthetic available if needed to maintain your comfort level throughout the procedure.
The affected tooth is then gently prepared by removing decayed tissue and creating an optimal environment for the filling material. Modern preparation techniques focus on preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible while ensuring complete removal of bacteria and damaged tissue. This conservative approach helps maintain tooth strength while providing the clean, dry surface necessary for proper filling placement and long-term success.
Composite resin fillings require a meticulous layering process to achieve optimal strength and aesthetics. Dr. Awad applies the filling material in carefully planned layers, curing each layer with a special light to ensure proper hardening and bonding. This technique allows for precise color matching and contour creation that blends perfectly with your natural tooth shape and bite alignment.
The final steps involve detailed shaping and polishing to create a smooth surface that feels natural and resists staining. Dr. Awad carefully checks your bite to ensure proper contact with opposing teeth, making any necessary adjustments to prevent discomfort or premature wear. The result is a restoration indistinguishable from your natural tooth structure that functions comfortably for years to come.
Newly placed fillings require some special attention during the first few days to ensure optimal healing and longevity. Sensitivity to temperature changes is normal immediately following treatment and typically resolves within a few days as the tooth adjusts to its restoration. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any mild discomfort during this adjustment period.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene becomes even more important after receiving fillings, as the margins where the filling meets natural tooth structure require careful cleaning to prevent future decay. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing help remove plaque bacteria from these crucial areas. Your bite may feel slightly different immediately after treatment, but this sensation typically resolves quickly as you adjust to the new restoration.
Dental fillings, while durable, do not last forever and eventually require replacement as they wear down or develop problems. Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Awad to monitor your existing fillings and identify signs of wear, leakage, or damage before they become problematic. Early detection of failing fillings prevents larger problems and often allows for simpler replacement procedures.
Signs a filling may need replacement include sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods, visible cracks or gaps around the filling edges, or rough areas you can feel with your tongue. Modern filling materials typically last many years with proper care, though lifespan varies based on factors such as filling size, location in the mouth, and individual habits like teeth grinding. Dr. Awad discusses expected longevity and maintenance requirements for each type of filling material during your consultation.
For extensive decay or damage, Dr. Awad may recommend alternatives to traditional fillings such as crowns or colored bonding techniques. These options provide additional protection and aesthetic enhancement for teeth requiring more comprehensive restoration. Cosmetic care approaches can transform damaged teeth into beautiful, functional parts of your smile.
Preventive treatments following filling placement help protect your investment and reduce the risk of future dental problems. Dr. Awad may recommend fluoride treatments, dental sealants for vulnerable areas, or custom night guards if teeth grinding threatens your restorations. These proactive measures extend filling life and protect your overall oral health while maintaining the natural beauty of your smile.
We commonly collaborate with other healthcare professionals to offer specialized care for complex dental cases and are committed to providing the best for your patients.
Dr. Awad’s extensive training and commitment to continuing education through organizations like the Spear Study Club ensures you receive the most advanced filling techniques and materials available. With numerous awards including the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Award and active memberships in the American Dental Association and Michigan Dental Association, our practice delivers the quality restorative care your smile deserves. We accept all insurance plans and offer flexible financing options to make necessary dental care accessible.
Don’t let cavities compromise your oral health and confidence when comfortable, effective treatment is readily available. Contact our office at 313-277-3000 or use our convenient contact form to schedule your filling consultation and take the first step toward restoring your healthy, beautiful smile.
25147 W Warren Ave, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
(313) 277-3000
We build long lasting relationships with our patients, using leading edge technology to deliver a high quality and a unique dental experience.
