Tooth chips and fractures may not necessarily cause pain that requires emergency dental treatment. However, they may cause discomfort when your tongue brushes across the rough tooth surface or when food particles get stuck in the damaged area. Moreover, if left untreated, bacteria can hide in the area, increasing the risk for decay and gum disease, which may lead to costlier and more time consuming treatments later on.

This type of tooth damage can be caused by cavities, chewing on hard items like ice cubes, or physical trauma can affect the normal function of your teeth and ruin your smile. Regardless of whether or not the damage causes pain, it’s recommended that you visit your dentist in Mira Mesa & Scripps Ranch CA for proper diagnosis and consultation.

Depending on the severity of your case, Neal Pham, DDS may recommend treatment with dental fillings or dental crowns.

Dental Fillings in Mira Mesa & Scripps Ranch CA

Dental fillings are typically placed in a single appointment. But first, Dr. Pham will guide you in selecting a suitable filling material depending on the type of tooth that needs to be repaired.

Tooth-colored composite resin fillings provide a more aesthetic restoration compared to alternative materials such as gold or silver amalgam that are typically used to repair rear teeth in order to withstand chewing forces. Composite resins are made from a plastic and glass mixture, and can be customized to have the same appearance as your tooth enamel, giving you a natural tooth repair solution that is virtually unnoticeable.

After choosing a filling material, Dr. Pham will proceed with the treatment by numbing the tooth. The tooth is then prepared by removing any decay or old damaged fillings, and then thoroughly cleaning the area. A special medication may be applied to protect the tooth if the decay was close to the tooth nerve.

Next, composite resin that closely matches your teeth color will be selected and precisely placed, molded, and polished to restore your decayed or damaged tooth to its original shape, size, and appearance.

Get dental fillings today

To find out whether dental fillings are right for you, please contact our office in Mira Mesa & Scripps Ranch, CA. We will also schedule your appointment with Dr. Pham for your personal consultation.