Dental Fillings & Sealants in Denver, CO

Don’t Let Cavities Go Untreated

Cavities are more than just minor inconveniences; they can lead to serious dental issues if left untreated. Dental fillings offer a simple and effective solution to halt the progression of decay, and dental sealants can stop decay before it starts. 

At Lowry Advanced Dentistry, our Denver, CO dentists offer dental fillings and sealants to help you say goodbye to the discomfort and potential complications of untreated cavities. To schedule your appointment, contact our dental office today by calling 303-333-5148.

Dental Fillings in Denver’s Lowry Neighborhood

Lowry Advanced Dentistry is a neighborhood dental practice — we treat the same people we run into at Lowry Town Center, the Lowry Sports Complex, and around the block. Dr. Michael Hoagburg and our team have spent years getting to know patients and families from Montclair, Park Hill, Stapleton, Virginia Village, Aurora, and Cherry Creek. We offer same-week appointments and accept most major insurance plans, so when a cavity comes up, getting it treated doesn’t have to be a production.

We know there’s no shortage of dental offices in Denver, and we don’t take it for granted when someone chooses us. Whether you’re coming in for a simple composite filling or something more involved, we’ll walk you through your options clearly and make sure the treatment fits your schedule and budget. If you’ve been putting off a filling, we’re right here. Call 303-333-5148 to schedule an exam.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings restore and repair teeth that have been affected by decay or damage. When a tooth develops a cavity (dental caries), a small hole caused by decay, a dental filling is used to fill the cavity and prevent further decay or infection. A dental filling can also be used to repair teeth that have been damaged due to trauma or wear. 

With dental fillings, our dentist can help patients with:

• Restoring the tooth’s structural integrity to prevent further decay and damage.
• Alleviating tooth sensitivity and pain associated with cavities or damaged teeth.
• Improving the appearance of the tooth, especially when tooth-colored materials are used.
• Preserving the tooth’s function and aesthetics for years to come.

Benefits of Dental Fillings 

Dental fillings offer several benefits for oral health and overall well-being. Some of the key advantages include:

• Decay removal
• Tooth preservation 
• Restored function 
• Pain relief
• Improved aesthetics 
• Durability
• Quick procedure 
• Minimal Sensitivity
• Prevents tooth fractures
• Cost-effective 

The Dental Filling Process

Our Denver, CO dentist will start by numbing the area around the tooth to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. Next, we’ll use a dental drill or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth, leaving a clean and prepared area. Once the decay is removed, Dr. Hoagburg will carefully shape the cavity to create space for the filling material. The chosen filling material, such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain, is then placed into the prepared cavity and shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth. The filling is hardened using a curing light. 

After ensuring the proper fit and bite alignment of your newly filled tooth, we’ll make any necessary adjustments. The final step involves polishing the filling to achieve a smooth and natural appearance. The result is a restored tooth that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing while preventing further decay and maintaining the overall oral health of the patient.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the surfaces of teeth, primarily the molars and premolars, to prevent tooth decay. They’re typically made from a plastic or resin material and used as a preventive measure. The chewing surfaces of the back teeth have numerous pits and fissures where food particles and bacteria can easily become trapped, making them susceptible to decay. 

Dental sealants act as a barrier, filling in these fissures and creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean through regular brushing. They effectively shield the vulnerable areas from the acids and bacteria that can lead to cavities. Sealants are particularly beneficial for children and adolescents, as they can protect their developing teeth during their most cavity-prone years. 

However, adults can also use them as a preventive measure to maintain oral health. Dental sealants are a simple and painless procedure that can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and the need for more extensive dental treatments in the future.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

There are various benefits to getting dental sealants, including:

• Cavity Prevention: By creating a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, sealants prevent food particles and bacteria from settling into the pits and fissures of the teeth, reducing the risk of cavities.
• Cost-Effective: Applying dental sealants is a relatively inexpensive preventive measure compared to treating cavities. It can help individuals avoid the expenses associated with dental fillings, crowns, or root canals.
• Pain-Free: The process of applying sealants is painless and non-invasive. It typically involves cleaning and drying the teeth, applying the sealant material, and then allowing it to harden. No drilling or injections are required.
• Long-Lasting Protection: Dental sealants can last for several years, providing continuous protection against tooth decay. They’re particularly beneficial during childhood and adolescence when the risk of cavities is highest.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: Sealants create a smoother surface on the teeth, making it easier to clean through regular brushing. This promotes better oral hygiene practices and reduces the likelihood of plaque buildup.
• Prevention of Dental Anxiety: Children, in particular, may experience dental anxiety. By reducing the need for more invasive treatments, dental sealants can help alleviate fear and make dental visits more comfortable for young patients.
• Quick Application: Applying dental sealants is a relatively quick procedure that can often be completed in a single dental visit, making it convenient for both patients and dental professionals.

Dental Sealant Process

The process of applying dental sealants involves cleaning the teeth, drying them thoroughly, isolating them from moisture, etching the tooth surfaces, applying the sealant material, and using a curing light to harden the sealant. Our dentist then checks for proper bonding, bite alignment, and smoothness, trimming any excess sealant and polishing the teeth to complete the procedure. This quick and painless process provides long-lasting protection against cavities, making it particularly useful for children and teenagers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dental fillings hurt?

The process of getting a dental filling is usually painless. Before beginning the procedure, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the cavity removal or filling placement. Some patients might experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off, but this is temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long do dental fillings last?

The lifespan of a dental filling varies depending on factors such as the type of material used, the location of the filling, and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. Amalgam fillings can last for decades, while composite resin fillings might need replacement after around 5 to 10 years. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the condition of your fillings and detect any signs of wear or damage, ensuring timely maintenance or replacement if necessary.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants can last for several years, often up to 5 to 10 years or more, depending on factors like wear and tear and oral hygiene practices.

Restore Your Smile and Oral Health Today!

Dental fillings play a vital role in restoring the health, function, and aesthetics of our teeth. Whether it’s addressing cavities, reinforcing tooth structure, or enhancing smiles, the process of getting a filling is a routine yet essential dental procedure. If you’re experiencing any dental discomfort or suspect you might need a filling, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dentist for a thorough examination. 

Schedule an appointment today by calling our Denver, CO, dental office at 303-333-5148, and take the first step toward maintaining your radiant smile and overall well-being.