Dental fillings typically used to restore tooth cavities, but can be also used to repair broken, cracked or worn teeth. Pinehurst family dentists Dr. Clement Monroe and Dr. Kamron Monroe offer several choices in material for tooth fillings including composite materials and porcelain for the most natural looking restorations.
When a tooth has become significantly decayed or infected, root canal therapy may be necessary to restore oral health and save the tooth. Drs. Monroe and Monroe will coordinate your care with a local specialist.
Most patients today prefer “white” fillings because they are indistinguishable from natural teeth. For a tooth with minimal decay or damage, Drs. Monroe and Monroe may use a composite resin filling. For a tooth with more significant decay or damage, the dentist may recommend a porcelain filling. The greater the damage to the tooth, the stronger the material needed to restore its strength and stability.
What to Expect
The exact procedure for your tooth filling may vary based on the size, location and type of tooth filling. Some small fillings can be complete with minimal preparation to the tooth and do not require anesthetic.
First, Dr. Clement or Dr. Kamron Monroe will prepare the tooth by removing any existing fillings and creating a stable foundation for the new filling. Resin fillings can be complete in one visit. Drs. Monroe will place the composite resin on the tooth and cure it with a special light.
Porcelain and gold tooth fillings are made in a dental laboratory and cemented into place in our Pinehurst dentist office. This type of filling typically takes two to three appointments. The dentist may place a temporary filling on the tooth to offer protection in between visits.
Schedule an Appointment
Are you looking for a dentist in the Aberdeen, NC and Pinehurst, NC area? We are currently accepting new patients! Schedule an appointment with Drs. Monroe & Monroe Implant & General Dentistry today to learn more about how we can help you enjoy a beautiful smile.
About the Root Canal Procedure
Drs. Monroe and Monroe recommend root canal therapy whenever possible to avoid tooth extraction and maintain the natural smile. A root canal is typically no more painful than a dental filling and may be completed with a dental crown to improve the strength of the tooth and reduce the risk of future damage or decay.
During treatment, your general dentist or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) removes the diseased pulp. Next the pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are cleaned and sealed.
Dental Filling FAQs
What is the best type of filling?
There is no-one-size-fits-all solution in dentistry. Drs. Monroe and Monroe will evaluate your condition and recommend the best choice for your situation. Generally speaking, we prefers to use “white fillings” made of either composite resin or ceramic material for a natural looking restoration.
Do you fix broken fillings?
If you have a lost or broken filling, contact our office to schedule an appointment. We make all attempts to see patients for dental emergencies on the same day. Dr. Clement and Dr. Kamron Monroe will provide prompt attention to repair the damaged tooth and restore the dental filling. Please do not attempt to reglue the filling to your tooth as you could cause further damage.
Can you replace my metal fillings with white fillings?
In some cases, Drs. Monroe and Monroe may be able to remove an old metal filling and replace it with a more natural looking “white filling”. If the tooth’s structure has been compromised, it may be best to restore it with a dental crown which will cover the tooth like a cap.