Dental Fillings in Tucson, AZ

Dental fillings are typically recommended when a tooth has been affected by mild to moderate decay, small fractures, or areas of worn enamel. These restorations help:

• Restore the structure and integrity of the tooth
• Prevent further decay or fracture
• Protect against sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
• Maintain the natural appearance of your smile

If left untreated, cavities can progress and lead to more complex issues, including infection or the need for root canal therapy. Early treatment with a filling helps avoid these complications.

Getting a filling is a straightforward procedure that usually takes less than an hour. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Diagnosis – Dr. Karley Schneider, Dr. Alyssa Holmes, or Dr. Alexander Ordoñez will examine the tooth during your dental exam and confirm the extent of decay using digital X-rays if necessary.
2. Anesthesia – A local anesthetic is used to numb the area and ensure a comfortable experience.
3. Tooth Preparation – We gently remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area to prepare it for the filling.
4. Restoration Placement – A tooth-colored composite resin is applied in layers, shaped to fit the natural contours of the tooth, and hardened with a curing light.
5. Finishing Touches – We polish the filling and adjust the bite for smooth, natural function.

Most patients resume normal eating and oral hygiene routines shortly after treatment.

At Ironwood Dental, we exclusively offer composite resin fillings for both front and back teeth. These modern materials are:

• Color-matched to your enamel
• Free from metal or mercury
• Durable and long-lasting
• Bonded directly to the tooth for added strength

In addition to being more aesthetic than traditional silver amalgam, composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure—allowing us to preserve more of your natural tooth during treatment.

If you have older metal fillings and want to explore replacing them with tooth-colored options, we’ll evaluate your smile and recommend the best approach.

While fillings are highly effective, our goal is always to help you avoid future decay. We recommend the following preventive steps:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss thoroughly at least once per day
• Visit us every six months for dental cleanings & exams
• Consider fluoride treatments or dental sealants for added protection
• Limit frequent snacking and sugary beverages

If you’re prone to cavities, we’ll work with you to develop a personalized prevention plan that supports stronger enamel and healthier habits.

In some cases, a filling may not be enough to support a weakened or heavily damaged tooth. If the decay is too extensive, we may recommend alternative solutions such as:

• Dental crowns for full coverage restoration
• Inlays and onlays for larger repairs that don’t require a full crown
• Tooth extractions followed by dental implants when necessary

We’ll always explain your options and help you make a choice that fits your needs, goals, and budget.