Dental Fillings in Atlanta, GA
Restore & Protect Your Teeth with Natural-Looking Fillings
Cavities and minor tooth damage can compromise your oral health and lead to more serious problems if left untreated. At Dunson Dental Design, we offer high-quality tooth-colored dental fillings in Atlanta, GA, to restore the strength, function, and appearance of your teeth. Our composite resin fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth while providing long-lasting protection against further decay.
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible signs of decay, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bernee Dunson for expert care.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth affected by cavities or minor damage. They restore the tooth’s structure, preventing bacteria from causing further decay. At Dunson Dental Design, we primarily use composite resin fillings, which offer:
- A natural, tooth-colored appearance
- Strong and durable restoration
- Mercury-free, biocompatible materials
- A less invasive procedure compared to traditional metal fillings
By opting for composite fillings, we can preserve more of your natural tooth structure while ensuring a beautiful, healthy smile.
Signs You May Need a Dental Filling
You may need a filling if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A visible hole or dark spot on a tooth
- Sharp pain when biting or chewing
- Rough edges or cracks in your teeth
- Previous fillings that are worn or damaged
If left untreated, cavities can progress, leading to the need for more extensive treatments like root canals or dental crowns. Early treatment with a filling can prevent further damage and keep your teeth strong.
What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure
Getting a filling at Dunson Dental Design is a quick and comfortable process that typically takes less than an hour. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing & Preparation: Dr. Dunson will apply a local anesthetic to numb the affected area, ensuring a pain-free experience. The decayed portion of the tooth is then gently removed.
- Filling Placement: A tooth-colored composite resin is applied in layers to fill the cavity. Each layer is hardened with a special curing light to create a strong bond.
- Shaping & Polishing: Once the filling is in place, Dr. Dunson will shape and polish it to ensure a smooth, natural look and a comfortable bite.
After your appointment, you can return to your normal activities right away. Some minor sensitivity may occur, but it typically fades within a few days.
Tooth-Colored Fillings vs. Metal Fillings
In the past, metal (amalgam) fillings were commonly used to restore cavities, but modern composite resin fillings offer several advantages:
- Aesthetic Appeal – Composite fillings match the natural color of your teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile, while metal fillings are silver and more noticeable.
- Durability & Strength – Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing added support and reducing the risk of cracks or fractures. In contrast, metal fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to tooth damage over time.
- Safety & Biocompatibility – Composite fillings are mercury-free and biocompatible, making them a safer option for patients concerned about metal restorations. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which has raised some health concerns over the years.
- Tooth Preservation – Less drilling is required for composite fillings, allowing more of your natural tooth structure to remain intact compared to metal fillings, which often require removing more healthy tooth material.
For patients with older metal fillings that are worn or damaged, we also offer safe removal and replacement with natural-looking composite fillings to restore both function and appearance.
Preventing Cavities & Tooth Decay
To minimize the need for future fillings, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. We recommend:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Routine dental exams & cleanings every six months – Schedule yours today
- Considering dental sealants for added protection against cavities
- Limiting sugary foods and drinks that contribute to decay
Schedule Your Dental Filling Appointment in Atlanta
If you suspect you have a cavity or need an old filling replaced, Dunson Dental Design offers expert care with the latest tooth-colored filling materials. Dr. Dunson and our team provide comfortable, precise, and long-lasting restorations to keep your smile healthy.
Call us at (404) 897-1699 or book an appointment online today to restore your tooth and prevent further decay.
