Dental Fillings in Pine Beach, NJ
We do dental fillings at Century Dental East to help fill out cavities and stop decay in its tracks. Dr. Mariya Medlenov can restore your oral health in one simple appointment by drilling out the decayed enamel and filling it in with a natural-looking resin. If you have a cavity and would like to get a dental filling in Pine Beach, New Jersey, from our dentist, call 732-341-6010!
A dental filling is a restoration used to repair minor to moderate tooth damage. We may recommend a filling if a tooth has been damaged by decay (for example, if it has a cavity) or suffers from minor fracturing or chipping. The dental filling is used to restore the tooth to its original structure and function, and return your smile to good health. There are two main types of dental fillings available: amalgam fillings and composite fillings.
The process for placing a dental filling requires just one comfortable visit to our office. Our dentist will first remove the decayed and damaged portion of the tooth, then clean it to remove all traces of decay. We then fill the area with the filling material and shape it to match your tooth’s shape. Finally, the filling is hardened by our dentist for a lasting restoration.
If one of your teeth is decayed or damaged, a dental filling may be a great choice for restoring your oral health and function. We invite you to call or visit us today to learn more about dental fillings and schedule your next appointment with our dentist and team. We look forward to caring for your smile!
Signs You May Need a Dental Filling
Early decay often causes no pain at all, which is why cavities are frequently found at a routine visit before you notice anything is wrong.
Symptoms worth mentioning to us
If you notice any of the following, it is worth having the tooth looked at rather than waiting to see whether it settles down on its own.
Many cavities are found on X-rays and examination long before symptoms appear, which is one of the reasons we recommend keeping up with regular dental exams and dental cleanings.
Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods. A brief sharp twinge when you eat or drink can point to enamel that has been breached.
A rough edge or catch you can feel with your tongue. Chipped or worn enamel often creates a ledge that traps food.
Food packing between two teeth. Decay between teeth can open a space that repeatedly catches floss or fibrous food.
A visible dark spot or hole. Staining in a groove or a small pit on the biting surface can indicate decay underneath.
Aching after chewing. Discomfort that lingers after pressure may mean the damage extends deeper into the tooth.
Choosing a Filling Material
Dr. Medlenov will talk through which material suits the tooth in question before any work begins.
Composite fillings
Composite is a tooth-colored resin that is bonded directly to the tooth and shaped by hand. Because it is matched to the shade of the surrounding enamel, it is usually the preferred choice for teeth that show when you smile. Composite also bonds to the tooth structure, which allows a more conservative preparation in many cases.
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam is a durable metal material that has been used in dentistry for a very long time. It is silver in appearance, so it is generally reserved for back teeth where strength under heavy chewing forces matters more than appearance.
When a filling is not the right answer
A filling repairs minor to moderate damage. If decay or a fracture has reached the nerve, root canal treatment may be needed to save the tooth. If too much of the tooth has been lost for a filling to hold up, a dental crown can cover and protect what remains. We will always tell you which option we think the tooth needs and why.
After Your Filling: What to Expect
Most people go back to their normal routine the same day.
The first day
If a local anesthetic was used, wait until the numbness has fully worn off before eating so you do not accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. A composite filling is hardened during the appointment, so there is no waiting period before you can chew on it.
Helping the filling last
A filling repairs the damage but does not make the tooth immune to future decay. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, limiting how often you snack on sugar, and keeping your routine cleaning appointments all protect the restored tooth and the ones around it.
The first few weeks
Some mild sensitivity to temperature is normal for a short time afterward and usually settles on its own. Let us know if any of the following continues.
The bite feels high. If the tooth touches first when you close, it is a simple adjustment and we would rather correct it than have you live with it.
Sensitivity that is getting worse rather than better. This is worth a look.
A rough edge or floss that shreds. Both are easy to smooth.
Dental Fillings in Pine Beach and Ocean County
Century Dental East treats patients from Pine Beach and the surrounding Ocean County communities at 241 Washington Avenue. Treating a cavity early usually means a smaller, simpler restoration than waiting until the tooth becomes painful. If a tooth is already hurting or has broken, see our emergency dental care page.
The cost of a filling depends on the material used, the size of the cavity and which tooth is involved, along with the terms of your dental plan. Our team can review your coverage and go over financial options with you before treatment so there are no surprises.
Schedule Your Filling in Pine Beach
To arrange an appointment with Dr. Mariya Medlenov, call (732) 341-6010 or contact our office.
Visit Our Pine Beach Office
Century Dental East — Gentle, Modern Dentistry for Families in Pine Beach, NJ.
241 Washington Avenue, Pine Beach, NJ 08741
(732) 341-6010
Hours
Mon 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tue 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Wed 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thu 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Fri-Sun Closed
Serving patients across
- Toms River
- Lakewood
- Lakehurst
- Forked River
- Bayville
- Beachwood
- Pine Beach
- Barnegat Light
- Ocean Gate
- Maple Shade
- Leisure Village
- Cedar Grove
- Waretown
- Howardsville
- Brookville
- Holly Park
- South Toms River