Your Trusted Dental Fillings Expert in Rapid City SD

If you’re dealing with tooth decay or damage, dental fillings can be a simple yet powerful solution. At Fibonacci Dental Studio, we’re committed to restoring and protecting your smile with our high-quality dental fillings in Rapid City SD. But what exactly are dental fillings, and why might you need one? Here’s everything you should know.

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What Are Dental Fillings in Rapid City SD?

Dental fillings are treatments for holes in your teeth. If tooth decay eats away at the inside of one of your teeth, you’re left with a hollow cavity inside your tooth and a weaker tooth structure.

Going without treatment for tooth decay isn’t a good option. Instead, you need to strengthen the tooth with a dental filling. During the process of getting a filling, your dentist numbs the area around the tooth. They scrape out any decayed tooth material from the inside. Then, they fill the remaining hole with either silver or tooth-colored composite resin.

Finally, your dentist buffs the filling so it looks polished like the rest of your tooth. If you choose composite resin, you can’t see the filling. Silver is most often used for molars since it’s strong and resistant to damage from chewing and teeth grinding.

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How do I know if I need a filling?

A cavity that needs a filling is hard to ignore. However, if you catch it early enough, you might not need a filling at all. You should call Fibonacci Dental Studio right away if you have any of these symptoms:

• Sharp, unexplained tooth pain
• Tooth pain while chewing
• Tooth sensitivity to heat and cold
• Discolored teeth (brown or black)
• Visible holes in your teeth

Getting a filling gets rid of these symptoms as soon as the numbness wears off. If you notice any unusual sensations or side effects after the numbness is gone, call Fibonacci Dental Studio.

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Why Choose Dental Fillings?

Decayed or damaged teeth can lead to discomfort and other complications if untreated. Fillings help by:

• Preventing Decay from Spreading: A filling stops further decay and maintains tooth health.
• Restoring Function: With a filling, you can chew and speak without discomfort.
• Improving Appearance: Tooth-colored fillings can match your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless smile.

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Types of Dental Fillings Available

We offer various filling options tailored to each patient’s needs. Here’s a quick look:

1. Composite Resin Fillings (Tooth-Colored)
   Composite resin fillings are a popular choice for their aesthetic appeal and durability. These fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and are great for visible areas.
2. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
   Made from a mixture of metals, amalgam fillings are known for strength and affordability. While they don’t match tooth color, they’re often used in less visible areas.
3. Gold Fillings
   Gold fillings are highly durable and can last over 20 years, though they come at a higher cost. They’re a solid choice if you’re looking for longevity and strength.
4. Porcelain Fillings (Inlays/Onlays)
   Porcelain fillings provide a strong, natural-looking option that resists staining. These require more than one visit as they are custom-made in a lab.

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What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure

Filling procedures are straightforward. Here’s how it works:

• Examination and Preparation: We examine the tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the decay.
• Anesthesia: The area around the affected tooth is numbed to ensure a pain-free experience.
• Decay Removal: The decayed part of the tooth is removed, creating space for the filling material.
• Filling Placement: The chosen filling material is carefully applied, shaped, and polished for comfort and appearance.

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Benefits of Dental Fillings

Fillings don’t just restore your tooth; they improve overall dental health. Here are some key advantages:

• Long-Lasting: Quality fillings can last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the material.
• Reduced Sensitivity: Fillings seal the tooth, helping reduce sensitivity to hot and cold.
• Improved Strength: By reinforcing the tooth structure, fillings prevent breakage and maintain function.

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Are Dental Fillings Safe?

At Fibonacci Dental Studio, we prioritize your health and safety. Dental amalgam fillings, which contain mercury, have been used safely for decades. The FDA and ADA affirm that amalgam fillings are safe for most patients, though we may recommend alternative materials for certain people, such as young children or those with specific health conditions.

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Do fillings need to be replaced?

Tooth fillings sometimes need to be replaced. Just like other dental work, fillings can accumulate minor damages over time the more you use your teeth. You’re especially prone to damaging a filling if you grind your teeth during sleep or when you feel stressed. The team at Fibonacci Dental Studio checks them when you come in for your regular cleanings.

If you see a crack on one of your fillings, be sure to make an appointment right away. Continuing to chew with an already-damaged filling can have serious consequences that call for more extensive dental work than a simple filling replacement. If you start getting more tooth decay around a filling, which can happen if it cracks, the team may decide to fortify it with a crown instead of another filling.

If you notice any signs of a cavity, call Fibonacci Dental Studio right away for a swift filling appointment. You can also book an appointment online.

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Post-Filling Care Tips

Once your filling is placed, there are simple steps you can take to ensure it lasts:

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods Initially: This will help your filling set properly.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly helps prevent future decay.
• Routine Check-Ups: We recommend bi-annual visits to monitor your fillings and overall dental health.

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Common Concerns About Dental Fillings

1. Will Getting a Filling Hurt?
   Not at all. With modern anesthesia techniques, filling procedures are virtually painless.
2. How Long Does a Filling Take?
   Most fillings can be completed in just one visit. Complex or indirect fillings, like porcelain inlays, may require two appointments.
3. How Much Do Fillings Cost?
   Filling costs vary depending on the material. We offer several options to fit different budgets and can discuss financing options if needed.
4. What if I Have a Reaction to Metal Fillings?
   Although rare, some people may have metal sensitivities. We offer composite or porcelain options for patients with such concerns.

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Schedule Your Appointment at Fibonacci Dental Studio Today

Ready to restore your smile? Give us a call today. Whether it’s your first filling or you’re looking for a replacement, we’re here to help. Call us to schedule an appointment and let us help you achieve lasting dental health.