What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair cavities, small cracks, or minor tooth damage caused by decay or injury. The process involves:
- Removing the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth.
- Cleaning and preparing the area for the filling.
- Placing a durable, tooth-colored composite material to restore the tooth’s function and strength.
- Shaping and polishing the filling for a smooth, natural-looking finish.
Fillings help protect the tooth from further decay and sensitivity, ensuring that you can chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
Signs You May Need a Dental Filling
Not all cavities cause pain, so it’s important to have regular dental check-ups to detect decay early. Some common signs that you may need a filling include:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- A visible hole or dark spot on the tooth.
- Sharp pain when biting down.
- Food frequently getting stuck in a particular tooth.
- A rough or broken area on the surface of a tooth.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—early treatment can prevent further damage and the need for more extensive dental work. Schedule an exam today.
Why Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings?
At Kennedy Dental Care, we use composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Unlike traditional silver (amalgam) fillings, composite fillings:
- Match the color of your teeth, making them virtually invisible.
- Bond directly to the tooth, providing added strength and support.
- Require less removal of healthy tooth structure, preserving more of your natural tooth.
- Are free of mercury, making them a safer, biocompatible choice.
Whether you need a new filling or want to replace an old silver filling, our team is here to provide a comfortable and long-lasting solution.
The Dental Filling Process: What to Expect
Getting a filling is a quick and painless procedure, typically completed in one visit. Here’s what to expect:
- Examination & Diagnosis – We begin with a thorough exam and digital X-rays to assess the extent of decay.
- Numbing the Area – A local anesthetic is used to ensure a pain-free experience.
- Removing Decay – We gently remove the damaged portion of the tooth and clean the area.
- Placing the Filling – The composite resin is applied in layers and hardened with a special curing light.
- Shaping & Polishing – The filling is carefully shaped to match your natural bite and polished for a smooth finish.
Most patients resume normal activities immediately after their appointment, with minimal to no discomfort.
Protecting Your Teeth After a Filling
To make your dental filling last as long as possible, follow these simple care tips:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly.
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy, which can damage fillings.
- Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your filling and overall oral health.
With proper care, composite fillings can last for many years, keeping your smile strong and healthy.
A Trusted Name in Corpus Christi since 1969
At Kennedy Dental Care, we’ve been a pillar of the Corpus Christi community for generations, as well as the surrounding areas of Portland, Annaville, Flour Bluff, and Robstown. Families trust us because:
- We provide gentle, high-quality care in a warm, welcoming environment.
- Our team stays at the forefront of modern dentistry, using the latest materials and techniques.
- We are proud to have a 4.9-star average rating across all locations, reflecting our dedication to patient satisfaction.
- We believe every child deserves access to dental care, even if it’s not with us.
From your child’s first filling to replacing an old restoration, we’re here to provide expert, compassionate care every step of the way.
Schedule Your Appointment for a Dental Filling Today
If you or your child have a cavity, don’t wait—early treatment prevents more serious dental issues. Our experienced team at Kennedy Dental Care is here to help with gentle, same-day dental fillings.
Visit one of our four locations in Corpus Christi:
- Saratoga – 6200 Saratoga Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414
- Alameda - 3435 S Alameda St A, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
- Staples - 5525 S Staples St STE B4, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
- Calallen – 13725 Northwest Boulevard, Suite 270, Corpus Christi, TX 78410
Call us at (361) 992-9500 or schedule an appointment online.
