Dental Fillings
in Brentwood, CA

Many adults develop tooth decay at some point in time. Fortunately, cavities tend to be easy to treat when caught in the early stages. In our Brentwood office, we provide durable, natural-looking dental fillings that restore the strength, function, and appearance of your teeth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with a cavity or need to replace an older filling, we’ll help you choose the treatment that’s right for your smile. Contact us today!

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When Dental Fillings Become Necessary

Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative treatments because they repair teeth affected by decay or minor damage before more extensive treatment becomes necessary. This, in turn, can help prevent infection, relieve discomfort, and reduce the likelihood of needing a crown or root canal in the future. During your exam, Dr. Freitas carefully evaluates the health of your teeth and recommends the most conservative solution whenever possible.

You may benefit from a filling if you have:

  • A cavity caused by tooth decay
  • A chipped or worn tooth
  • A cracked filling that needs replacement
  • Sensitivity caused by enamel loss
  • Minor damage from everyday wear

Tooth-Colored Fillings That Blend Beautifully

For most patients, we recommend composite resin fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings. These modern restorations are carefully matched to the shade of your natural teeth, allowing your smile to look healthy and seamless after treatment. Composite fillings offer several advantages, including:

  • Natural-looking esthetics
  • Strong, durable performance for many everyday restorations
  • Bonding directly to the tooth for added support
  • Preservation of more healthy tooth structure
  • Completion in a single appointment for most fillings

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?

For many small to medium-sized cavities, modern composite resin fillings provide excellent strength while offering the added benefit of blending naturally with your teeth. The best material depends on the location and size of the restoration, and Dr. Freitas will recommend the option that provides the best long-term outcome for your specific situation.

Does getting a filling hurt?

Most patients find the procedure very comfortable. Before treatment, we’ll numb the area with local anesthesia so you remain comfortable throughout your appointment. You may experience mild sensitivity for a few days afterward, but this typically resolves quickly.

How long do dental fillings last?

The lifespan of a filling varies depending on the material used, the size of the filling, your oral hygiene, and your chewing habits. Brushing, flossing, regular dental visits, and avoiding habits like chewing ice or using your teeth as tools can all help your fillings last longer. During your routine visits, we will assess your dental restorations to determine when they need to be changed or replaced.

How do I know if I need a filling?

Sometimes cavities cause tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible holes, but many develop without noticeable symptoms. That’s why routine dental exams are so important. During your dental exams, Dr. Freitas can detect decay early and recommend treatment before it becomes a larger problem.

Can old fillings be replaced?

Of course! Fillings can wear down, crack, or develop leakage over time. If an existing filling is no longer protecting your tooth, we can remove it and place a new restoration to help preserve the health and function of your smile.

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