That sharp twinge when you bite down on something cold isn't going away on its own.

Tooth decay spreads deeper into healthy structure every day you wait, turning a simple filling into a more complex procedure. At Red Rose Dentistry in Brookfield, Dr. Emily Eckdahl helps you stop decay in its tracks with the right restoration for your specific situation.

We know you're probably wondering: Which type of filling will last longest? Will it hurt? Can people tell I have one? Let's address those concerns directly; the sooner you understand your options, the sooner you can get back to eating without wincing.

Quick Overview: What You Need to Know

If you need a dental filling, here are the essential facts:

• Materials: Composite (tooth-colored, 5-10 years), amalgam (silver, 15-20+ years), or ceramic (premium, 20+ years)
• Cost: Amalgam most economical, composite moderate, ceramic highest; most insurance covers basic fillings well
• Timeline: Single appointment for most fillings; ceramic restorations require two visits
• Recovery: Minimal discomfort; avoid hard foods for 24 hours with composite fillings
• Emergency signs: Lost filling, cracked restoration, or severe sensitivity needs immediate attention
• When needed: Cavities, worn fillings, cracked teeth, or cosmetic improvements

Your Filling Options: What Actually Works

Here's the reality about dental fillings: there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The cavity in your front tooth needs different treatment than the one in your back molar; Dr. Eckdahl evaluates each situation individually because what works perfectly for heavy chewing forces might look terrible when you smile.

Tooth-Colored Fillings (Composite Resin)

These blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. We can shade-match the material so precisely that even your dentist friends won't spot it; the resin bonds directly to your tooth, which means we preserve more of your healthy enamel during preparation.

What you'll love about composite fillings:

• Invisible results: Nobody knows you have a filling
• Conservative approach: We keep more of your natural tooth
• Immediate strength: The bond actually reinforces your remaining enamel
• Versatile placement: Works for small cavities and moderate-sized restorations

The trade-off? They might not last quite as long as silver fillings in your back molars, especially if you're a teeth grinder. They also require a completely dry environment during placement, which can add a few minutes to your appointment.

Silver Fillings (Amalgam)

Don't let anyone tell you amalgam fillings are outdated. They've been protecting teeth for over 150 years because they work incredibly well; these metal restorations can handle the 200+ pounds of pressure your molars generate when you're chewing a tough steak.

Why patients still choose amalgam:

• Exceptional durability: Often lasts 15-20 years or longer
• Budget-friendly: Lower cost for material and placement
• Forgiving placement: Works well even in challenging conditions
• Proven performance: Decades of successful clinical results

The obvious downside is appearance—they're silver, not tooth-colored. We also need to remove slightly more tooth structure to create the mechanical retention that holds them in place.

Premium Ceramic Restorations

For larger cavities, custom ceramic inlays and onlays provide the best of both worlds: natural appearance and exceptional durability. These are crafted in a dental laboratory using precise impressions of your tooth; think of them as custom-tailored suits for your teeth.

Ceramic restorations offer:

• Natural translucency: Light passes through like real enamel
• Stain resistance: Your morning coffee won't discolor them
• Gentle on gums: Biocompatible material that tissues love
• Long-term investment: Often lasts 20+ years with proper care

These require multiple appointments and represent the highest investment, but they're ideal for patients who want the most natural appearance and don't want to think about replacement for decades.

When Fillings Fail: Emergency Situations

Lost a filling? That sudden sharp pain isn't just uncomfortable; it's your tooth crying for help. The exposed inner structure is now vulnerable to bacteria and temperature changes—waiting too long can turn a simple filling replacement into root canal therapy.

Call us immediately at 262-860-1500 if you experience:

• Complete filling loss: That rough, hollow feeling where your filling used to be
• Cracked restoration: Intermittent pain when you bite down
• Severe sensitivity: Sharp pain from hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Throbbing pain: May indicate infection requiring immediate attention

Until you can get in to see us, avoid temperature extremes, chew on the opposite side, and use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. Temporary dental cement from the pharmacy can provide short-term protection, but don't delay professional treatment.

Beyond Fillings: When You Need More

Sometimes a cavity is too large for a simple filling. When decay affects more than one-third of your tooth structure, we need to consider alternatives that provide better long-term protection.

Crowns vs. Fillings: Making the Right Choice

Think of it this way: small holes need patches, but extensive damage requires replacing the entire roof. Dental crowns completely cover your tooth above the gum line, distributing chewing forces across the entire restoration instead of concentrating stress at filling edges.

We typically recommend crowns for teeth that have had root canal treatment, since removing the internal blood supply makes the remaining structure more brittle. While crowns cost more initially, they often prevent fractures that could lead to tooth loss.

The Money Talk: What Fillings Actually Cost

Let's be honest about costs. Filling prices vary based on material, size, and complexity, but here's the general hierarchy:

• Amalgam fillings: Most economical, especially for back teeth
• Composite fillings: Moderate cost with aesthetic benefits
• Ceramic restorations: Highest investment, premium durability and appearance

Most dental insurance covers basic fillings well, but there are nuances. Amalgam typically gets the highest coverage percentage; composite fillings might be covered at the same rate for front teeth but potentially less for back teeth. Some plans only cover composite at the amalgam rate, meaning you pay the difference.

We know insurance can be confusing, which is why our team helps you with the process by verifying your benefits before treatment and providing detailed estimates; we submit to virtually all insurance providers and work to maximize your benefits.

How to Choose: Your Decision Framework

Here's how Dr. Eckdahl approaches material selection:

For front teeth: Aesthetics matter most. Composite resin offers excellent appearance at moderate cost; porcelain provides superior stain resistance for the long term.

For back teeth: Durability is key. Amalgam remains excellent for pure function, though many patients now choose composite even for molars because they prefer the appearance.

If you grind your teeth: Consider the exceptional durability of amalgam or ceramic restorations. You might also benefit from a custom night guard to protect your investment.

If aesthetics are non-negotiable: Composite or porcelain, regardless of location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings

Do fillings hurt to get?

Most patients feel minimal discomfort during filling placement. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely; you'll feel pressure and vibration from the drill, but no pain. The injection itself causes a brief pinch, then everything goes numb. Some patients experience mild sensitivity for a day or two afterward, especially with composite fillings.

How long do different types of fillings last?

Amalgam fillings typically last 15-20 years or longer with proper care. Composite fillings generally last 5-10 years, though this varies based on location and your habits. Ceramic restorations often exceed 20 years. Your filling's lifespan depends on factors like teeth grinding, cavity size, and your oral hygiene routine.

Can I eat normally after getting a filling?

With amalgam fillings, avoid chewing on that side until the numbness wears off to prevent accidentally biting your cheek. The filling is immediately strong enough for normal use. Composite fillings need about 24 hours to reach full strength; stick to softer foods and avoid very hot or cold items during this period.

Why is my tooth sensitive after a filling?

Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure is normal for the first few days after a filling. This happens because the tooth needs time to adjust to the new restoration. If sensitivity persists beyond a week or becomes severe, contact us; you might need a simple bite adjustment or the filling may be too close to the nerve.

Are silver fillings safe?

Yes, amalgam fillings are safe. The American Dental Association, FDA, and World Health Organization all confirm their safety. While they contain mercury, it's bound with other metals in a stable compound that doesn't release harmful levels. Millions of people have had amalgam fillings for decades without health issues.

Can old fillings be replaced with tooth-colored ones?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to replace old amalgam fillings with composite for aesthetic reasons. However, we only recommend replacement if the old filling is failing, cracked, or if you're having other work done on that tooth. Healthy fillings don't need replacement just for appearance.

What happens if I don't get a cavity filled?

Cavities don't heal on their own; they only get larger. Small cavities become big cavities, which eventually reach the nerve and require root canal treatment. Left untreated long enough, the tooth may develop an abscess or break beyond repair, requiring extraction. Early treatment is always simpler and less expensive.

How do I know if my filling needs to be replaced?

Watch for these signs: rough or sharp edges, visible cracks, food getting stuck in the same spot repeatedly, or sensitivity that develops in a previously comfortable tooth. During your regular checkups, we examine all existing fillings and take X-rays to check for decay underneath. Most filling problems are caught before they cause symptoms.

Ready to Fix That Cavity?

Tooth decay doesn't take breaks, weekends, or holidays. Every day you wait, it spreads deeper into healthy structure; the good news is that catching it early means simpler, less expensive treatment.

Dr. Emily Eckdahl and our team at Red Rose Dentistry provide comprehensive filling services using modern materials and techniques. We're located at 12780 W North Ave Suite A in Brookfield, serving families throughout the greater Milwaukee area with the exceptional dental care rooted in love that defines our practice.

Ready to stop that toothache? Contact us at 262-860-1500 to schedule your appointment.

‍