Fillings/Restorations

Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Fillings

When decay or damage affects a tooth, a filling can restore its health and function before the problem grows. At Atlantic Smiles, we use high-quality composite (tooth-colored) materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, so you can smile, eat, and speak with confidence.

Why You Might Need a Filling

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues we treat. They develop when bacteria and acids wear away your tooth's protective enamel. Left untreated, decay can spread deeper into the tooth, causing pain, infection, or even tooth loss.

A filling removes the decayed portion of your tooth and seals it with a durable material that prevents further damage. We also use fillings to repair teeth that are chipped, cracked, or worn down.

Our Approach to Comfortable, Quality Care

We know dental anxiety is real, especially when you need a filling. Our team takes time to explain each step, answer your questions, and make sure you feel at ease. We use gentle techniques and effective numbing to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.

The process is straightforward:

1. We carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth
2. The area is cleaned and prepared
3. We apply the composite resin in layers, shaping it to match your tooth's natural contours
4. A special light hardens the material
5. We polish and adjust the filling so your bite feels just right

Most fillings are completed in a single visit, and you can return to normal activities right away.

Tooth-Colored Fillings vs. Metal Fillings

We primarily use composite resin fillings because they offer several advantages:

• Natural appearance – The material is color-matched to your existing teeth, making it virtually invisible
• Strong bond – Composite bonds directly to your tooth structure, providing excellent support
• Preserves tooth structure – Less drilling is needed compared to traditional metal fillings
• No temperature sensitivity – Unlike metal, composite doesn't expand and contract with hot and cold

Caring for Your Fillings

With proper care, today's fillings can last many years. Brush twice daily, floss once a day, and visit us for regular checkups so we can monitor your fillings and catch any new issues early. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects, and let us know if you grind your teeth at night—we can provide a protective nightguard.

If you experience sensitivity, pain, or notice a rough edge on a filling, give us a call. Sometimes a simple adjustment is all that's needed.