Fillings

Restoring Strength & Health to Your Smile

Cavities and minor tooth damage can compromise your oral health, but with tooth-colored dental fillings, you can restore your smile while maintaining a natural look. At Sleep Dentistry, we provide durable, aesthetic fillings in Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, ensuring long-lasting protection against decay and further damage.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth that have been affected by cavities, minor fractures, or wear. Fillings restore strength, function, and appearance, preventing further decay and preserving your natural teeth.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

✔ Natural Appearance – Composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for an invisible repair.

✔ Strong & Durable – Designed to withstand daily chewing and biting forces.

✔ Minimally Invasive – Requires less removal of natural tooth structure compared to traditional fillings.

✔ Mercury-Free & Biocompatible – Safer and healthier than traditional silver (amalgam) fillings.

✔ Long-Lasting Protection – Helps prevent future decay and preserves the tooth’s integrity.

When Do You Need a Filling?

You may need a dental filling if you experience any of the following:

  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
  • Visible holes or dark spots on a tooth
  • Pain or discomfort when chewing
  • Chipped or fractured teeth
  • Worn-down enamel from grinding or acid erosion

How Long Do Fillings Last?

With proper care, composite fillings can last 7-10 years or longer, while ceramic fillings may last even longer. Regular dental checkups will help ensure your fillings stay intact.

Types of Fillings We Offer

At Sleep Dentistry, we primarily use tooth-colored composite fillings, but we also offer other materials based on your needs and preferences.

1. Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings

  • Matches the natural color of your teeth
  • Bonds directly to the tooth for a secure fit
  • Ideal for front and back teeth

2. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain)

  • Highly durable and stain-resistant
  • Aesthetic option for larger fillings
  • Mimics the natural translucency of teeth

3. Glass Ionomer Fillings

  • Releases fluoride to help prevent further decay
  • Often used for children or fillings near the gum line

Caring for Your Fillings

✔ Brush & floss daily to maintain oral hygiene.

✔ Avoid chewing hard foods (such as ice or hard candies) to prevent premature wear.

✔ Attend regular dental checkups for early detection of any issues.

✔ Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth to prevent damage to your fillings.

Get Strong, Natural-Looking Fillings at Sleep Dentistry

At Sleep Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and oral health. Our expert team provides high-quality, long-lasting dental fillings that restore function while maintaining a beautiful natural look.

Schedule your appointment today at our Portland, OR, or Vancouver, WA locations and keep your smile healthy and strong!

The Filling Procedure: What to Expect

Getting a dental filling is quick, comfortable, and typically completed in one visit. Here’s what happens:

1. Numbing & Preparation

We apply a local anesthetic to the area to ensure a pain-free experience. If you have dental anxiety, we also offer sedation options to help you relax.

2. Removing Decay

Our skilled dentist carefully removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth, leaving a clean surface for the filling.

3. Placing the Filling

The appropriate filling material is applied and shaped to restore the tooth’s natural form.

4. Curing & Polishing

A special light may be used to harden the filling, ensuring durability. We then polish, as needed, for a smooth and natural finish.