DENTAL FILLINGS
Gentle, Long-Lasting Dental Fillings in Pleasant View & North Ogden, Utah
If you’ve been told you have a cavity—or you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity—chances are you need a dental filling. At our Pleasant View and North Ogden dental offices, we specialize in fast, comfortable, and long-lasting tooth fillings designed to restore your smile and stop decay in its tracks.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about dental fillings, so you can make the best decision for your oral health.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative treatments used to repair small holes in the teeth caused by decay. These holes, more commonly known as cavities, develop when harmful bacteria and acids wear down your tooth enamel.
A dental filling literally fills in the damaged part of your tooth, sealing it to prevent bacteria from entering and further damaging the tooth structure. Left untreated, decay can penetrate deeper layers of your tooth and reach the nerve, leading to the need for a root canal—or worse, an extraction.
In short: dental fillings save your teeth, protect your smile, and prevent bigger dental problems down the road.
Do You Need a Filling?
Here are some signs you might need a dental filling:
- Toothache or pain when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugary foods
- Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
- Rough or chipped areas that weren’t there before
- Food getting trapped in one particular spot
Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, regular dental exams and x-rays can catch cavities early—before they become painful or require more invasive treatment.
If you live in Pleasant View or North Ogden and think you might need a filling, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier (and more affordable) it is to fix.
Types of Dental Fillings We Offer
We provide a variety of filling materials depending on your needs, budget, and preference. Each type has its pros and cons, and our experienced dentists will help you choose the best one for your situation.
1. Tooth-Colored Fillings (Most Popular Option)
Composite Resin Fillings
- Best for: Small to medium cavities; front or visible teeth
- Pros: Natural-looking, bonds to your tooth, minimal drilling needed
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than silver fillings
Composite fillings are made from a blend of plastic and glass, giving them a natural appearance that blends seamlessly with your tooth. These are the most popular choice among our patients in Pleasant View and North Ogden who want both function and aesthetics.
Porcelain (Ceramic) Fillings
- Best for: Larger cavities; patients seeking long-lasting aesthetics
- Pros: Strong, stain-resistant, realistic appearance
- Cons: More costly; may require multiple visits
Porcelain fillings (also called inlays or onlays) are created in a lab or with computer-aided design and are customized to fit your tooth perfectly. These are an excellent choice if you want a virtually invisible, durable restoration.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
- Best for: Non-biting surfaces, children, or small cavities near the gumline
- Pros: Releases fluoride to protect against further decay
- Cons: Less durable than composite or porcelain
Glass ionomer fillings offer fluoride-releasing protection and blend moderately well with natural teeth. They’re a great choice for temporary fillings or in areas of lower bite pressure.
2. Metal Fillings
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
- Best for: Back molars and areas that require strength over aesthetics
- Pros: Durable, affordable, long track record of use
- Cons: Noticeable appearance; requires more drilling
Amalgam fillings are made from a mix of mercury, silver, copper, and tin. While not as visually discreet as tooth-colored options, they are extremely strong and often last 10+ years.
Cast Gold Fillings
- Best for: Patients who want maximum durability and don’t mind the look
- Pros: Longest-lasting option (20+ years), biocompatible
- Cons: High cost, requires more than one appointment, very visible
Though less commonly used today, gold fillings still offer unmatched durability and are a top-tier choice for patients who prioritize function over appearance.
How Are Fillings Placed?
Getting a filling is a quick and virtually painless process. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing: We’ll numb the area around the tooth so you don’t feel a thing.
- Decay Removal: Your dentist will gently remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
- Filling Placement: The chosen filling material is placed and shaped to match your bite.
- Polishing: The filling is smoothed out and polished for a natural look and feel.
Most appointments take under an hour, and you’ll be able to eat and drink shortly after your numbness wears off.
Why Choose Us for Dental Fillings in Pleasant View & North Ogden?
We know getting a filling isn’t exactly how you planned your day. That’s why we go out of our way to make the process as easy, comfortable, and convenient as possible.
What Sets Our Office Apart:
Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
Friendly, experienced dentists who listen to your concerns
Modern, comfortable office with state-of-the-art equipment
Fast scheduling, including same-day appointments when available
Personalized treatment plans to fit your goals and budget
What Causes Cavities?
Cavities start with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when sugars and starches from food are not cleaned away properly. When plaque sits too long, it produces acid that eats away at your tooth enamel. Over time, this leads to holes in the tooth surface.
Here’s the cycle in a nutshell:
- Eat or drink sugary or starchy foods
- Plaque bacteria feed on those sugars
- Acid is produced by the bacteria
- Acid breaks down enamel
- A cavity forms
The good news? Dental fillings can stop this process in its tracks and restore the integrity of your tooth.
Don’t Wait—Restore Your Smile Today!
Cavities won’t fix themselves. But with a quick, comfortable dental filling, you can stop the decay, protect your tooth, and get back to living your life without pain.
If you’re in Pleasant View or North Ogden and think you might need a filling—or just want a second opinion—we’re here to help.
Call now to schedule your appointment or book online in just a few clicks.
Elevate your dental experience!
Dental Fillings FAQs
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What types of dental fillings are available, and which is best?
Common types of dental fillings include composite resin, amalgam (silver), gold, porcelain, and glass ionomer. Composite resin fillings are popular due to their natural appearance and versatility. The best type depends on the filling’s location, durability required, aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Discuss your options with your dentist to determine the most suitable choice for your specific needs. Learn More -
How long do dental fillings typically last?
Dental fillings generally last between 7 and 20 years, depending on the material used and your oral hygiene habits. Composite fillings usually last 7–10 years, amalgam fillings about 10–15 years, and gold or porcelain fillings can last up to 20 years or longer. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding can significantly extend a filling’s lifespan. Learn More -
Does getting a dental filling hurt?
Getting a dental filling typically involves minimal discomfort. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area, making the procedure painless. Afterward, you might experience mild sensitivity or soreness, which usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and sensitivity toothpaste can help manage any temporary discomfort. Learn More -
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
Common signs you may need a dental filling include toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, visible holes or pits in your teeth, or discomfort when chewing. However, cavities sometimes cause no symptoms initially, making regular dental visits essential for early detection and timely treatment. Learn More -
What can I expect during the dental filling procedure?
During a dental filling procedure, your dentist will first administer local anesthesia to numb the area. Then, they will remove the decayed tooth material, thoroughly clean the cavity, and apply the filling material. The filling is shaped and hardened—often using a special curing light for composite resin fillings—and finally, polished for comfort and optimal bite alignment. The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. Learn More