Cavities and minor tooth fractures are common dental issues but thankfully, they’re also easy to treat. At Clanton Dental, we use high-quality, natural-looking dental fillings to restore your teeth’s strength, shape, and function. Whether you’re dealing with decay or a small chip, a filling is one of the most effective ways to protect your oral health and prevent bigger problems down the road.

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1. What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are materials used to fill in areas of a tooth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or minor fractures. The process involves gently removing the affected portion of the tooth and replacing it with a strong, durable filling material that blends with your natural tooth.

Fillings:

• Restore the tooth’s shape and integrity
• Prevent further decay or damage
• Help relieve discomfort or sensitivity
• Improve chewing function

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2. Types of Filling Materials

At Clanton Dental, we offer several types of filling materials tailored to your needs and preferences:

• Composite Resin: Tooth-colored and highly aesthetic, perfect for visible areas
• Porcelain: Durable and stain-resistant, often used for larger restorations
• Amalgam (less common today): Silver-colored, strong, and long-lasting for back teeth

We’ll help you choose the best option based on the location of the filling, the amount of tooth structure affected, and your personal priorities.

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3. The Procedure: Quick, Comfortable, and Effective

Getting a filling is a simple, routine procedure:

1. We numb the area to ensure complete comfort.
2. The decayed or damaged area is removed with precision.
3. The filling material is placed, shaped, and hardened.
4. We adjust your bite and polish the surface for a smooth, natural feel.

Most fillings can be completed in a single visit and with today’s materials and techniques, the results look and feel just like your natural tooth.

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4. Why Timely Treatment Matters

Cavities don’t heal on their own. If left untreated, decay can spread deeper into the tooth, potentially leading to infection, pain, or the need for more advanced treatments like crowns or root canals.

By catching and treating decay early with a filling, you can:

• Avoid discomfort and future complications
• Preserve more of your natural tooth
• Maintain your overall oral health with minimal disruption

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Final Thoughts

Dental fillings are a small step with big benefits. At Clanton Dental, we make the process easy, effective, and completely personalized so you can get back to smiling and chewing with confidence.

Think you might need a filling or want to check in on your dental health? Book your visit today - we’re here to help protect your smile, every step of the way.

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