Dental FillingsAn Overview
Dental fillings are among the most common treatments for tooth cavities and minor tooth damage. Using a biocompatible material, Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot will restore oral health and tooth structure in a simple procedure completed during a single visit. Dental fillings are a general dentistry treatment that Dr. Sousa offers at his office in Roslyn Heights, NY.
East Hills Dental Associates in Roslyn Heights is a metal-free dental practice. This means that Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot places natural-looking fillings with a composite resin or ceramic material.
Porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are aesthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
Why Choose White Fillings?
Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak, or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and allows cavities to start again. With age, the metal in a silver filling expands and contracts, and it can split.
Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak, and cause stains on your teeth and gums. Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with new tooth-colored restorations.
There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth, creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used when much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.
Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contains fluoride, this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums.
As always, Dr Sousa gets it right. He cares and does amazing work. Your smile will make everyone envious.R. Hondros
Always a fantastic experience with lovely staff. Couldn’t ask for a better dentist !Michelle Cassera
It is always a pleasant experience to go to Dr. Sousa's office. I completely rely on Dr. Sousa's expertise in dentistry and his cosmetic aesthetic (he is an artist) as well as the upbeat positive environment with Dr. Sousa's staff. Conversation is always sprinkled with a sense of humor; yet…Anonymous
Dental Fillings What to Expect
A dental filling is typically performed using a local anesthetic to numb the area and minimize any discomfort. The first step is to clean the area and gently remove as little tooth structure as possible to clear all decay or damage.
If an inlay or onlay is being placed due to a larger cavity or to ensure the long-term integrity of the tooth, a dental impression will be taken to fabricate a custom restoration. You will need to return to our office to have it placed once it is ready. Dr. Sousa and Dr. Ahdoot have an on-site dental lab where they will create your new inlay or onlay using quality ceramic material such as porcelain.
If the filling is to be placed immediately, as in most cases, Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot will carefully sculpt the material into place. After adjusting for a good fit and comfortable bite, the tooth will be polished to a natural luster.
Replacing Old Fillings
Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot can provide an instant smile makeover while improving long-term dental health by replacing old, dark fillings with white fillings. This will require two visits with us to complete, but the results will transform your smile.
Your First Appointment:
The old filling is removed along with any additional decay. An impression of your teeth is made, and a model is created and sent to the lab. A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.
At the lab, A resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural and fit comfortably.
Your Second Appointment:
The temporary onlay is removed, and a conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
Bonding cement is placed on the tooth, and a high-intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
The tooth is then polished and your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!
