What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are one of the most commonly performed restorative treatments. The tooth-colored material replaces lost tooth structure, typically after cavity removal. 

The fillings themselves consist of a variety of materials. Technicians fabricate the pliable material from a blend of plastics, metals, and other materials. 

Our office works with tooth-colored fillings that do not contain metals. The biocompatible material can be color-matched to blend in with the natural shade and luster of your teeth. 

Anyone is a candidate for dental fillings. Cavities are sometimes unavoidable. Dentists across the country rely on safe and effective fillings to restore lost tooth structure following dental work.

Replacing Metal Fillings

Some of our patients have fillings placed because their old filings are worn. If you have unattractive metal fillings, Dr. Soren Michaelsen can safely remove those metal pieces and replace them with biocompatible fillings that blend in with your smile. 

Fixing Minor Chips

Fillings can even be used to repair minor chips and cosmetic problems. The treatment is typically called dental bonding. It uses the same safe material as fillings.

Tooth Restoration Following Cavity Removal

Fillings restore lost tooth structure after cavity removal. Once Dr. Michaelsen removes decayed enamel, you can enjoy the benefits of a fully restored tooth.

Dental fillings have many uses. Whether you have a cavity removal procedure scheduled or wish to remove metal fillings, you can rely on this safe procedure.

Dental fillings are incredibly affordable. Even if you have to pay out of pocket, you should not worry about affordability.

Many forms of dental insurance cover part of the cost of placing fillings. Even though the treatment is not expensive, the results can last for many years.



Filings are incredibly durable. They can even withstand the pressures of biting and grinding hard foods for several years or longer. 

Dental fillings are placed during one convenient visit to our dental practice. If you are having a cavity treated, your fillings will be placed immediately after that procedure is completed. 

Preparing the Tooth

The first step is to prepare the treatment site. This is done by cleaning the space and then using an etching liquid to prepare the tooth surface. Etching ensures that there is a strong bond between the filings and the tooth's surface.

Color-Matching Your Fillings

Once your tooth is ready, Dr. Michaelsen will color-match the fillings. This allows the material to exactly match the color and luster of your natural teeth. 

Placing and Making Minor Adjustments

Once this is done, your dentist will artfully place the material into the space. He will then use a special blue light to quickly harden the material. Within seconds, your fillings will be incredibly hard.

Any minor adjustments can be made at that time. If needed, your dentist can use special tools to smooth or adjust the fillings. Special care will be given to ensure that the fillings do not interfere with your bite. 

One of the benefits of fillings is that there is no recovery or adjustment period.

Maintaining Your Fillings

Fillings are incredibly durable, but they are not invulnerable. The composite resin can be damaged by actions that are also dangerous to enamel.

Never Bite Hard Objects 

Never use your teeth to pry open packages or to open objects. Be mindful about chewing hard objects like seeds and nuts. Overly aggressive chewing can weaken or even dislodge fillings. 

Schedule Visits for Check-Ups and Cleanings

With special care and regular visits to our office for check-ups and cleanings, your fillings can last several years or longer. During your check-ups, Dr. Michaelsen will examine your filings to ensure that they are in good shape. Tooth decay can occur around the filings, so visits to our office are important. 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Even with good oral hygiene habits and regular visits to our office, your filings will not last forever. At some point, they may become worn, brittle, or broken.

If you ever feel like the texture of your fillings changes, be sure to report it to our office. If your fillings fall out, schedule a visit to our office immediately. Lost fillings expose your teeth to potential infection and other dental problems.

Replacing fillings is easy and straightforward. Dr. Michaelsen will use the same procedure that he used to place your filings when replacing them. 

Schedule Your Visit with Your Dentist in Catoosa OK