Dental fillings in Melville, NY, are a common restorative treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay. When a cavity or small area of tooth damage is treated early, a filling can restore the tooth’s shape, protect the remaining structure, and help make biting and chewing feel more comfortable again.
At Restorative and Implant Dentistry of Long Island (RIDLI), Mitchell B. Shaw, D.D.S., provides dental fillings with attention to both function and appearance. His decades of experience in general and restorative dentistry enable him to carefully evaluate the tooth, explain the available filling materials, and recommend care that supports long-term oral health for patients in Melville and throughout Long Island, NY.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental tooth fillings are a restorative treatment used to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth affected by damage or decay. The filling materials, which can be made from several different substances, help to even out tooth surfaces for more efficient biting and chewing. Dental fillings can last for many years and help keep the tooth looking and functioning at its best.
Fillings are often recommended when decay is limited enough that the tooth can still be restored without a crown. They may also be used to repair minor chips, worn areas, or small defects in a tooth. Treating these concerns early can help prevent the damage from spreading and reduce the risk of needing more involved care later.
Types Of Dental Fillings
The dentist will discuss the filling materials and options with each patient before the procedure to determine the best option. The right material may depend on the tooth’s location, the size of the cavity, cosmetic goals, bite pressure, and the patient’s long-term dental needs.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are made of a glass or quartz filler within a resin medium that produces a tooth-colored material. Also known as filled resins, composites are often used in small to mid-size restorations, as they provide strength, durability, and resistance to fracture. In addition, the shade of composite fillings is designed to closely match the patient’s natural teeth, so that others will not be aware that dental work has been done.
Glass Ionomers
Glass ionomers are also tooth-colored fillings that are made of a mixture of acrylic and glass and are most often used in young children because they release fluoride. This material is weaker than composites and usually lasts less than five years before a replacement is needed.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for many years and are considered strong, durable, and relatively inexpensive compared to other materials. Although amalgam fillings are strong and effective, many patients choose not to use them because the silver color can be visible when eating, speaking, or smiling.
The Dental Filling Procedure
During the filling procedure, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay or damage in the area using a dental handpiece or laser. The surface of the tooth is cleaned and prepared for filling. The filling material is placed in the targeted area, where it will be finished and polished to match the appearance of the natural teeth. Dental fillings are placed during a single visit to a dentist’s office.
Some patients may require additional support after their filling procedure, such as the placement of a crown, implant, or bridge. A root canal may be needed for severely damaged or infected teeth.
Replacement Fillings For Older Dental Work
Older fillings can wear down, crack, loosen, or leak around the edges over time. This is especially important for older adults or patients who had fillings placed many years ago. A filling may still look intact but no longer seal the tooth properly, allowing bacteria to collect underneath or around the restoration.
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A cracked, chipped, or loose filling
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Sensitivity around an older restoration
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Decay forming near the filling
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A filling that feels rough or uneven
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Silver fillings that are no longer desired for cosmetic reasons
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A large filling that may need a crown instead
Dr. Shaw can examine older fillings and determine whether they should be monitored, repaired, replaced, or restored with another option.
Why Choose Restorative And Implant Dentistry Of Long Island (RIDLI)
Dental fillings may be routine, but they still require careful judgment. The goal is to remove decay, preserve healthy tooth structure, and restore the tooth in a way that fits the patient’s bite. At Restorative and Implant Dentistry of Long Island (RIDLI), Mitchell B. Shaw, D.D.S., brings more than forty years of restorative dental experience to this type of care.
Dr. Shaw’s background includes a dental degree from SUNY Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine, where he graduated with numerous scholastic honors and was selected Class Salutatorian by his classmates. His experience in comprehensive dentistry helps him recognize when a filling is appropriate and when a crown, root canal, bridge, or implant-supported option may better protect the tooth.
Restore And Protect Your Teeth In Melville, NY
Dental fillings can repair decay, protect damaged teeth, and help maintain comfortable chewing. Restorative and Implant Dentistry of Long Island (RIDLI) provides dental fillings and replacement fillings for patients in Melville and throughout Long Island, NY. To have a cavity, damaged tooth, or older filling evaluated, call Mitchell B. Shaw, DDS, PLLC, Restorative & Implant Dentistry of Long Island at (631) 271-1522 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Shaw can recommend the filling material or restorative option that best supports your smile.
