Dental Fillings in Tucson, AZ

Restore & Protect Your Teeth with High-Quality Fillings

Cavities and minor tooth damage can compromise your oral health, but dental fillings provide a simple, effective solution. At Aeris Family Dental, we offer tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth while restoring strength and function.

Whether you have a new cavity or need to replace an old metal filling, our team provides comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing dental restorations in Tucson, AZ.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are materials used to restore teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay, fractures, or wear. They fill in the affected area to prevent further decay and restore the tooth’s natural shape and function.

Common Reasons You May Need a Filling:

• Cavities (Tooth Decay): If a cavity isn’t treated, it can worsen and lead to infections or tooth loss.
• Cracked or Chipped Teeth: A filling can seal small fractures and protect against further damage.
• Worn Teeth: Teeth grinding (bruxism) or acidic erosion can wear down enamel, requiring a filling for protection.
• Replacing Old Fillings: Older metal (amalgam) fillings can be replaced with tooth-colored composite fillings for a more natural appearance.

Types of Dental Fillings

At Aeris Family Dental, we offer different types of dental fillings based on your specific needs and preferences.

• Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)
  
  • Matches the natural color of your teeth
  • Ideal for front and back teeth
  • Strong and durable, bonding directly to the tooth structure
  • Minimally invasive, preserving more of your natural tooth
• Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)
  
  • Long-lasting and highly durable
  • Resistant to wear, making them a good choice for molars
  • More noticeable due to silver color
• Glass Ionomer Fillings
  
  • Releases fluoride, helping to prevent further decay
  • Often used for children's fillings or cavities near the gumline
• Gold Fillings (Inlays & Onlays)
  
  • Extremely durable and resistant to wear
  • Requires multiple visits for placement
  • Higher cost compared to other filling options

Most patients prefer tooth-colored composite fillings for their natural appearance and strong bond to the tooth structure.

What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure

Getting a dental filling at Aeris Family Dental is a quick and painless process.

1. Examination & X-Rays
   
   • Our dentist examines the tooth and may take digital X-rays to assess the extent of decay or damage.
2. Removing Decay
   
   • The damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed to stop the spread of decay.
3. Filling Placement
   
   • A composite or other filling material is applied, shaped, and hardened using a special curing light.
4. Polishing & Bite Adjustment
   
   • The filling is smoothed and polished to ensure a comfortable, natural fit.

The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes per tooth, and you can return to normal activities immediately after your visit.

Signs You May Need a Dental Filling

If you experience any of the following, you may need a dental filling:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Pain or discomfort when biting down
• Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
• Rough or chipped areas on a tooth
• Food getting stuck in certain areas

If you're unsure, our dental exams can help detect cavities early before they become larger issues.

How to Care for Your Dental Fillings

To extend the lifespan of your dental fillings, follow these simple care tips:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the filling.
• Visit our office for regular checkups to ensure your filling remains intact.
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth to prevent premature wear.

With proper care, composite fillings can last 7-10 years, while amalgam and gold fillings can last 10-15 years or longer.

Tooth-Colored Fillings vs. Metal Fillings

Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings:

• Blends seamlessly with natural teeth
• Bonds directly to the tooth for added strength
• Requires less removal of natural tooth structure
• Ideal for both front and back teeth

Amalgam (Metal) Fillings:

• More resistant to wear and long-lasting
• Less expensive than composite fillings
• May expand or contract over time, leading to cracks

For aesthetic and functional benefits, most patients today opt for tooth-colored composite fillings over traditional metal fillings.

Why Choose Aeris Family Dental for Dental Fillings?

• Experienced & Gentle Dentists – Our team, led by Dr. Lan Allen, Dr. Kevin Mortenson, and Dr. Scott Sonico, provides expert restorative dentistry with patient comfort in mind.
• Advanced Technology – We use digital X-rays for accurate cavity detection and minimally invasive treatment.
• Natural-Looking Restorations – Our tooth-colored fillings ensure seamless, durable results.
• Pain-Free Treatment – We offer local anesthesia and sedation options for a comfortable experience.
• Affordable & Insurance-Friendly – We accept most insurance plans and provide flexible payment options.

If you need a dental filling in Tucson, AZ, we’re here to provide high-quality, compassionate care.

Schedule Your Dental Filling Appointment in Tucson, AZ

Don’t ignore a small cavity—early treatment prevents more serious dental problems in the future. Aeris Family Dental offers gentle, effective, and affordable dental fillings to restore your smile. Visit Us at One of Our Three Locations:

Rita Ranch Office

Address: 10410 E. Rita Rd, Tucson, AZ 85747
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM | Friday: 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Call or Text: (520) 356-4959 | Email: rita@tucsonteeth.com 

Continental Ranch Office

Address: 8651 N. Silverbell Rd. Suite 103, Tucson, AZ 85743
Hours: Varies by day (earliest start: 7:00 AM, latest close: 6:00 PM)
Call or Text: (520) 341-5730 | Email: silverbell@tucsonteeth.com 

Downtown Tucson Office

Address: 1 E. Congress, Suite 153, Tucson, AZ 85701
Hours: By Appointment Only, Tuesday & Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Call: (520) 346-6236 | Text: (520) 200-0818 | Email: downtown@tucsonteeth.com 

Schedule Your Consultation Now

FAQs About Dental Fillings

1. How long do dental fillings last?

Composite fillings typically last 7-10 years, while amalgam or gold fillings can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care.

2. Is getting a filling painful?

No, we use local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience. Mild sensitivity may occur after the procedure but should subside quickly.

3. Can I eat after getting a filling?

For composite fillings, you can eat immediately after the procedure. If you receive an amalgam filling, wait a few hours before eating.

4. Are tooth-colored fillings better than silver fillings?

Composite fillings are more aesthetic and natural-looking, while silver fillings are stronger for molars but more noticeable. Our dentist will recommend the best option for your needs.

5. How do I know if I need a filling?

If you have sensitivity, pain, or visible damage, schedule an appointment for an evaluation.