Dental Fillings in
Upland, California

It’s not a good idea to wait six months to fill a cavity because the decay can worsen, causing more damage to the tooth, pulp, and surrounding tissues. Waiting too long may also increase the risk of infection, pain, and tooth loss. Treating a cavity sooner leads to better results and lower costs.

Yes, you might need a filling even without pain. Pain doesn’t always signal tooth decay, as some cavities are painless and can only be found through a dental checkup and X-rays. Untreated painless cavities can lead to more severe problems like tooth fractures, abscesses, or nerve damage.

Fillings typically don’t hurt because dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area before removing decay and placing the filling. Some people may feel slight discomfort or sensitivity afterward, which is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid hot or cold foods and have good oral hygiene.

Generally, fillings are less costly than extractions, which are more invasive and might need additional procedures like bone grafting or implant placement. However, filling costs can vary based on the material and decay extent. To compare costs, it’s best to discuss with your dentist and get a personalized treatment plan.

Composite fillings, made of resin and glass, are tooth-colored. They can last at least five years, but how long they endure depends on cavity size, location, material quality, and oral hygiene.

A tooth can be filled multiple times, but with each replacement, more tooth structure is lost, weakening the tooth. To preserve the natural tooth, it’s crucial to avoid unnecessary fillings. If a tooth can’t support another filling, alternatives like crowns, inlays, onlays, or veneers may be considered.