Tooth Fillings
NE Portland, OR

Smiling woman at Hunter Dental Care in Portland, OR.

Dental fillings are treatments used to repair cavities, which are small holes in the teeth caused by tooth decay.

The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the resulting space with filling material.

The primary cause of tooth decay is harmful bacteria in the mouth that produce acids, weakening the tooth enamel and forming cavities.

If not addressed, tooth decay can lead to more severe infections and ultimately tooth loss.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing, can help prevent cavities.

What are Composite Dental Fillings?

Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in the best with natural teeth, which is why they are often the material of choice.

There are several other types of dental filling materials, including gold, porcelain, and silver amalgam. The choice of material depends on factors such as the location of the cavity and the severity of decay.

Gold fillings are highly durable and aesthetically pleasing but are more expensive and require multiple dentist visits.

Silver amalgam fillings are strong and cost-effective but lack aesthetic appeal as they do not match the natural color of teeth.

Who Might Need Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are commonly needed by individuals who have tooth decay, which manifests as cavities in the teeth.

Scenarios in which someone might need a dental filling could include:

•	People with Cavities: The most common reason for needing a dental filling is to repair the damage caused by cavities, which are the result of tooth decay.
•	Those with Cracked or Broken Teeth: Fillings can also be used to repair teeth that have been damaged due to trauma, biting on hard objects, or other accidents.
•	Individuals with Worn Teeth: People who grind their teeth or have an abnormal bite may experience tooth wear that can be restored with fillings.
•	Patients with Eroded Teeth: Acid erosion from foods, beverages, or stomach acid can cause tooth material to wear away. Fillings can help restore the form and function of these teeth.
•	Children: Young individuals who struggle with maintaining good oral hygiene are at a higher risk for cavities and might require fillings.
•	Anyone Wanting to Replace Old Fillings: Over time, old fillings might need to be replaced due to wear, leakage, or further decay around the filling.

Overall, anyone who experiences decay, damage, or wear in their teeth may be a candidate for dental fillings as a way to restore dental health and functionality.

Regular dental check-ups can help identify the need for fillings before problems become more serious.

Tooth Filling Procedure Portland OR

The dental filling procedure begins with the dentist numbing the affected area around the tooth.

The decayed portion is then removed using a drill, laser, or air abrasion instrument, depending on the dentist's preference and the specific situation of the decay.

The cavity is cleaned to eliminate any debris and bacteria. If the decay is near the root, a liner may be used to protect the nerve. The cavity is then filled, and the material is polished.

Tooth-colored fillings require additional steps, such as applying the material in layers, each hardened with a special light, followed by shaping and polishing to achieve the final look.

Cavity Removal in Portland OR

Call us at (503) 256-3737 or visit our office in NE Portland to schedule a dental fillings consultation!

Location

1739 NE 122nd Ave
Portland, OR 97230-1914

Hours

Mondays & Tuesdays: 7 AM - 3 PM
Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8 AM - 5 PM
Fridays: Closed

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Dental Fillings NE Portland OR • Hunter Dental Care
Have a cavity or need to replace an old filling? Our NE Portland, OR dentists use the latest materials to ensure durable and natural-looking results. Call today!
Hunter Dental Care, 1739 NE 122nd Ave, Portland, OR 97230-1914 - (503) 256-3737 - hunterdentalcare.com - 6/13/2025 - Page Keywords: dentist Portland OR -

Tooth Fillings NE Portland, OR