Dental Fillings in St. Petersburg, FL

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, fractures, or wear. Once decay is removed, Dr. Knowles fills the affected area with a durable, tooth-colored composite resin to rebuild structure and prevent further damage.

Composite fillings are strong, long-lasting, and designed to match the exact shade of your natural teeth, offering both protection and aesthetics.

At Waterfront District Dental, we offer:

• Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings: For small to medium cavities, providing a natural appearance.
  
• Replacement of Metal Fillings: We can safely remove and replace old silver (amalgam) fillings with composite for an improved look and comfort.
  

When You Might Need a Dental Filling

You may need a filling if you experience any of the following:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
  
• Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
  
• Sharp pain when biting down
  
• Rough or chipped tooth surfaces

Catching cavities early through routine cleanings and exams allows us to treat them with simple, conservative fillings before they require more complex procedures.

The Dental Filling Process

At Waterfront District Dental, your comfort comes first. Our advanced techniques and gentle approach make the filling process quick, precise, and pain-free.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Diagnosis and Preparation:
   We begin by identifying decay using digital X-rays and a visual exam. The affected area is gently numbed for complete comfort.
   
2. Decay Removal:
   Dr. Knowles carefully removes all decayed material and cleans the tooth to prepare it for restoration.
   
3. Filling Placement:
   A tooth-colored composite resin is layered into the cavity, shaped to restore your tooth’s natural contour, and hardened with a special curing light.
   
4. Finishing and Polishing:
   The filling is polished and adjusted for a perfect, comfortable bite and smooth finish.

You’ll leave the appointment able to chew normally with a tooth that looks and feels just like new.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Composite fillings offer several key advantages over traditional silver fillings:

• Natural, tooth-colored appearance
  
• Durable and long-lasting material
  
• Preserves more of your natural tooth structure
  
• Mercury-free and metal-free
  
• Bonds directly to enamel for a secure fit
  
• Resistant to temperature-related expansion and contraction

These modern restorations not only protect your teeth but also maintain the beauty of your smile.

Preventing Future Cavities

While fillings repair existing decay, preventive care helps you avoid new cavities. Dr. Knowles recommends:

• Twice-daily brushing and daily flossing
  
• Regular dental visits for exams and cleanings
  
• Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
  
• Sealants for added protection on molars
  
• Limiting sugary snacks and beverages

Our team will help you build a preventive plan that supports long-term oral health.

Comprehensive Restorative Dentistry in St. Petersburg

Dental fillings are just one of the ways we restore and protect healthy smiles. Explore our full range of restorative dentistry services, including:

• Crowns
  
• Bridges
  
• Dentures & Partials
  
• Dental Implants
  

Dr. Knowles focuses on conservative, long-lasting solutions that restore comfort, function, and confidence to your smile.