Dental Fillings

Durable fillings designed to protect and preserve your natural teeth.

Dental fillings are a reliable way to restore teeth affected by decay and protect them from further damage. At Sommers Family Dentistry, we provide Dental Fillings that are safe, durable, and carefully matched to your tooth’s function and appearance. Our goal is to help patients in Norwalk, OH, and surrounding communities maintain strong, comfortable smiles for years to come.

Whether you have small cavities or areas of early tooth decay, prompt dental care helps preserve your natural teeth and supports long-term oral health.

How Dental Fillings Restore and Protect Teeth

A dental filling repairs the portion of the tooth damaged by decay. Tooth decay develops when food particles and bacteria weaken tooth enamel, creating cavities. During the filling procedure, the decayed area is removed and replaced with a durable dental material that restores the tooth surface and helps prevent further damage.

Dental fillings support:

  • Strong tooth structure
  • Protection against disease control and progression
  • Preservation of natural teeth
  • Comfortable chewing and normal function

Addressing decay early helps reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity, infection, or eventual tooth loss.

Types of Dental Fillings Available

There are several types of dental fillings, and the right dental filling depends on the extent of the damage, the location of the tooth, and your oral health goals. Our dentists take time to explain the different types of dental fillings and help you choose the right filling for your needs.

Composite Resin Fillings

Composite resin fillings, also called composite fillings or resin fillings, are tooth-colored and blend naturally with surrounding teeth. These fillings are a great choice for front teeth or visible areas of the smile.

Benefits include:

  • Natural tooth color match
  • Preservation of more tooth enamel
  • Strong bonding to the tooth surface

Suitable for small cavities and moderate decay

Amalgam and Silver Fillings

Amalgam fillings, also known as silver amalgam or dental amalgam fillings, have been used for decades. They are known for strength and durability, especially on back teeth that handle heavy chewing forces.

Considerations include:

  • Silver color appearance
  • Long-lasting performance

Often used where appearance is less visible

Glass Ionomer Fillings

Glass ionomer fillings contain glass particles and are sometimes used for areas near the gum line or for temporary filling needs. These materials can release fluoride, which supports dental health and helps protect against further decay.

Porcelain and Gold Fillings

Porcelain fillings and gold fillings are types of indirect filling options made in a dental lab. These types of indirect fillings are durable and custom-crafted to fit your tooth precisely, though they may involve higher cost and more than a single dental visit.

Choosing the Right Filling Material

Selecting the right filling involves several factors:

  • Location of the tooth
  • Extent of the damage
  • Tooth color and appearance goals
  • Bite pressure on back teeth or front teeth
  • Insurance coverage and dental insurance considerations

Our team discusses all options clearly, including filling material, durability, and expected lifespan. We follow guidance from the American Dental Association and evidence-based dental hygiene sciences to support optimal oral health.

What to Expect During the Filling Procedure

A dental filling procedure is often completed during a single dental visit. After tooth preparation, the decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed. The tooth is cleaned, shaped, and filled with the chosen dental material. The filling is then polished to ensure a smooth finish without rough edges.

Patients often appreciate that:

  • Local anesthesia keeps the area comfortable
  • Digital X-rays help guide precise treatment
  • The process is efficient and well-organized
  • Normal eating returns quickly after treatment

Some mild tooth sensitivity is common after a filling and usually resolves with proper care.

Dental Fillings for Children and Adults

Dental fillings are an important part of dental services for patients of all ages. In pediatric dentistry, fillings help protect developing teeth and support healthy oral hygiene habits. For adults and seniors, fillings preserve natural teeth and help avoid more extensive restorative care such as crowns or dental implants.

Providing timely care helps prevent further damage and supports long-term dental health.

Caring for Your Dental Fillings

Proper care extends the life of your dental fillings and supports good oral hygiene. We recommend:

  • Brushing twice daily and flossing regularly
  • Routine dental hygiene exams
  • Avoiding excessive pressure on filled teeth
  • Scheduling follow-up visits as recommended

Maintaining good oral hygiene helps protect tooth enamel and reduces the risk of new decay around existing tooth fillings.

Insurance and Dental Filling Coverage

Many insurance plans provide insurance coverage for dental fillings. Coverage may vary depending on the type of filling material and whether the procedure is classified as preventive or restorative. Our front desk team is happy to help review dental insurance details and answer questions about insurance plans before your appointment.

Trusted Dental Fillings in Norwalk, OH

Sommers Family Dentistry has served Norwalk and surrounding North Central Ohio communities since 1952. As a multi-generation family practice, we combine experience, advanced technology, and personalized care to support lifelong smiles. Patients value our calm environment, clear communication, and commitment to comfort.

If you are experiencing tooth decay, sensitivity, or suspect a cavity, early treatment with dental fillings can protect your smile and prevent tooth loss.

Call (419) 668-3606 to schedule your appointment and learn more about dental fillings at Sommers Family Dentistry.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Call today to schedule your visit. We look forward to welcoming you to our Norwalk dental office and caring for your smile for years to come.

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