Dental Fillings
Just because a treatment is common does not mean it deserves any less expertise. Dental fillings at our La Jolla location are always performed by a skilled dentist with years of experience. This restoration marks the foundation of keeping your smile healthy, so we take it seriously.
Dental Fillings in La Jolla
Routine Dental Care with Exceptional Results
Types of Dental Fillings
Composite Resin
Most patients prefer composite resin fillings because they can match their tooth color. They are excellent for fillings on visible teeth, but you can also use them for molars to keep your entire smile looking natural.
Metal
Metal fillings are the most durable option. However, patients tend to get them only for rear teeth to minimize visibility.
Glass Ionomer
These specialized dental fillings release fluoride over time. We typically only recommend them for patients who need extra defense against tooth decay.
Why Choose Our La Jolla Practice for Dental Fillings
- Precision even in routine care
- Quality materials for lasting results
- High-tech equipment with advanced techniques
- Professional staff ready to support patients
Getting Dental Fillings: Step By Step
Consultation & Assessment
We conduct a full exam, which may include X-rays. We use advanced 3D imaging to get a full view of any teeth affected by decay, which helps guide treatment planning. Based on your oral health needs, we may recommend fillings or another treatment.
Preparing the Tooth
We numb the treatment area and then remove any decayed tooth material. We work precisely, carefully removing only affected tooth material while preserving as much as possible. This leads to longer-term tooth stability while also requiring less filling material.
Placing the Filling
We place the filling material and shape it. This multistep process ensures that the filling follows the natural grooves and shape of the tooth.
Polishing and Finish
The final touches involve polishing the filling material until it is flush with your tooth. We test out your bite, ensuring it feels natural and comfortable before finishing the treatment.
Dental Fillings Treatment Quick Facts
- Procedure Duration: 20-45 minutes per tooth (average)
- Treatment Type: General, restorative dentistry
- How Long Results Last: 5–15+ years (varies by material)
- Pain Level: Pain-free during and after treatment
Testimonials
Ready to Start?
Even for routine care, you want a dental specialist who treats every procedure with the same attention. The top dental office for dental fillings in La Jolla is TruGLO. Call or use our form to schedule a consultation to work with the best in keeping your smile healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a dental filling?
Dental fillings restore teeth in the earlier stages of decay. More advanced decay could require a more extensive restoration, such as inlays, onlays, or even crowns. While severe decay is noticeable, you likely won’t notice the early stages. It starts without symptoms, and some cavities can only be spotted with X-rays. That’s why routine dental visits are so important. Checkups every 6 months let us spot decay before it causes larger problems.
Some signs you need a filling include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Visible holes or dark spots on teeth
- Food gets stuck in a part of the tooth
- Previous fillings have cracked or worn down
How much does a dental filling cost?
Fillings tend to cost $200-$300 per tooth. The total price can fluctuate, varying with the material used and the complexity of the restoration. Our TruGLO Membership plans help offset the costs of routine care like dental fillings. Membership can include free checkups and discounts on treatments, which help you keep your oral health in good condition.
Does getting a dental filling hurt?
You shouldn’t feel any pain during or after your filling treatment. We use a specialized anesthesia device that administers the perfect amount of numbing solution to prevent pain. If you had a more extensive filling, you might feel a little sore afterward. However, even this minor soreness fades within a day.
How long does it take to get a filling?
Basic fillings should take about 20–45 minutes per tooth. If you have had routine dental checkups, you likely won’t have decay that requires anything more extensive. If you do have more notable decay, a single filling could take up to an hour per tooth. Generally, patients are in and out of our office in less than 1 hour, which includes getting local anesthetic and the treatment itself.
Will I still be able to eat and drink normally after treatment?
Your treated tooth will be ready for use right away. But you might want to wait for the numbing to wear off first. A numb mouth could lead to accidentally biting your cheek, lip, or tongue.
What happens if I delay getting a filling?
Decay happens slowly, but it also happens surely. If you have a cavity or decaying tooth, putting off treatment only increases your risk of further issues. A quick dental filling procedure is always worth doing right away.
