Dental Fillings in
Winter Park, FL
Restore Your Teeth at Desai Dental
When decay damages a tooth, a dental filling provides a reliable solution that restores both function and appearance. At Desai Dental in Winter Park, Dr. Shilpa Desai brings over 20 years of experience to every filling procedure, ensuring precise treatment that protects your tooth from further damage. Our team focuses on your comfort while delivering restorations that blend seamlessly with your natural smile.
Understanding Dental Fillings
A dental filling repairs a tooth that has been compromised by decay or minor damage. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the affected area thoroughly, and filling the space with a durable material. This process stops decay from spreading deeper into the tooth structure and restores the tooth's natural shape and chewing function.
Left untreated, cavities continue to grow and can eventually reach the inner pulp of the tooth, leading to infection, severe pain, and the potential need for root canal therapy or extraction. Addressing decay early with a filling is a straightforward way to preserve your natural tooth and avoid more extensive treatment down the road.
Types of Fillings We Offer
Our Winter Park dental office provides filling options to suit different needs and preferences.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite Resin Fillings are the most popular choice for patients who want a natural-looking restoration. Made from a tooth-colored material, composite fillings blend in with surrounding teeth and are ideal for visible areas in the front of the mouth. They also work well for back teeth and bond directly to the tooth structure for added strength.
Direct Fillings
Direct Fillings are completed in a single visit. Dr. Desai removes the decay, prepares the tooth, and places the filling material during one appointment. This is the most common approach for small to moderate cavities.
Indirect Fillings
Indirect Fillings such as inlays and onlays are used when a tooth has more extensive damage but doesn't require a full crown. These restorations are custom-fabricated in a dental lab and typically require two visits. Inlays fit within the cusps of the tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps to provide additional coverage and strength.
Dental Filling Procedure
Getting a dental filling at Desai Dental is a comfortable and efficient process. Dr. Desai begins by numbing the area around the affected tooth so you won't feel any discomfort during treatment. She then uses precise instruments to remove all traces of decay and cleans the cavity to eliminate bacteria.
Once the tooth is prepared, the filling material is placed in layers and shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. For composite fillings, a special curing light hardens each layer. Finally, Dr. Desai checks your bite and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure the filling feels comfortable and functions properly.
Most filling appointments take between 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size and location of the cavity.
Signs You May Need a Filling
Cavities don't always cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages, which is why regular dental checkups are so important. However, certain signs may indicate you need to schedule an appointment:
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks can signal decay. Visible dark spots or holes on a tooth surface often indicate a cavity that requires attention. Pain when biting down or a persistent toothache may mean decay has progressed and needs prompt treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our office right away.
Caring for Your Fillings
With proper care, dental fillings can last many years. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every day. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pen caps that could crack or dislodge a filling. Attend regular dental cleanings and exams so Dr. Desai can monitor your fillings and catch any issues early.
Schedule Appointment
Desai Dental is conveniently located on Audrey Avenue in Winter Park, serving patients from Orlando, College Park, Maitland, and surrounding Central Florida communities. If you suspect you have a cavity or need to replace an old filling, don't wait for the problem to worsen.
Call us today at (407) 898-3471 to schedule your appointment and restore your smile with a filling that looks and feels natural.
Frequently Asked Questions
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You may need a filling if you experience tooth sensitivity, notice a visible hole or dark spot on a tooth, or feel pain when chewing. However, many cavities develop without obvious symptoms. Regular checkups with Dr. Desai allow us to detect decay early through examination and dental X-rays before it causes discomfort.
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Modern composite resin fillings are strong and durable for most applications. While traditional amalgam fillings may last slightly longer in high-pressure areas like back molars, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth and actually help strengthen the remaining structure. Many patients prefer them for their natural appearance and mercury-free composition.
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The procedure itself should not be painful. Dr. Desai numbs the treatment area before beginning, so you'll only feel some pressure during the process. After the numbness wears off, you may experience mild sensitivity for a day or two, but this typically resolves quickly on its own.
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The lifespan of a filling depends on its size, location, and how well you care for your teeth. Composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years or longer with proper oral hygiene. During your regular checkups, Dr. Desai monitors your fillings for signs of wear or damage and recommends replacement when necessary.