Dental Fillings in Lawndale, CA

Q: How many fillings can be done at once?

In many cases, multiple cavities can be filled in a single appointment, especially if they are in the same area of the mouth. Your dentist will let you know the best approach based on the number and location of the cavities.

Catch cavities early and restore your tooth with a natural-looking filling that blends right in with your smile.

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What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is one of the most common and straightforward procedures in dentistry. When a cavity forms, it means bacteria have eaten through the tooth’s enamel and created a small hole. Left untreated, that hole gets bigger, causing sensitivity, pain, and eventually more serious problems like infection or the need for a root canal.

A filling stops the decay in its tracks. Your dentist removes the damaged portion of the tooth, cleans the area, and fills it with a durable material that restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and function. The result is a tooth that looks and feels normal again, and the entire process usually takes less than an hour.

At K&E Family Dental, we use tooth-colored composite fillings that match the natural shade of your teeth. Nobody will know you had work done.

How Do You Know If You Need a Filling?

Cavities don’t always announce themselves with pain. In fact, many cavities develop without any symptoms at all, which is one of the biggest reasons regular dental checkups matter. By the time a cavity hurts, it’s often progressed further than it needed to.

That said, there are some common signs that a filling may be in your future. Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks is one of the earliest warning signs. You might notice a visible dark spot or hole in a tooth, or feel a rough edge when you run your tongue over a tooth’s surface. Mild, lingering pain when you bite down can also indicate decay. And if an old filling has cracked, chipped, or fallen out, it will need to be replaced to protect the tooth underneath.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. The earlier a cavity is caught, the smaller the filling, the simpler the procedure, and the more of your natural tooth we can preserve.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are several filling materials available, and the right choice depends on the location of the tooth, the size of the cavity, and your preferences.

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings are the most popular option for visible teeth. Made from a blend of plastic resin and fine glass particles, composite fillings are color-matched to your natural tooth so they’re virtually invisible. They bond directly to the tooth structure, which means less drilling and more of your natural tooth is preserved. Composite fillings work well for small to mid-sized cavities on both front and back teeth.

Amalgam (silver) fillings have been used in dentistry for over a century. They’re extremely durable and cost-effective, making them a practical choice for large cavities on back molars where chewing forces are strongest. However, their metallic appearance makes them less popular for visible teeth.

Ceramic and porcelain fillings (also called inlays or onlays) are custom-fabricated in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth. They’re highly durable, stain-resistant, and closely match the color of natural teeth. These are typically recommended for larger areas of decay where a standard filling might not provide enough structural support but a full crown isn’t necessary.

Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride over time, which can help protect the tooth from further decay. They’re less durable than composite or amalgam, so they’re most often used for small fillings in low-pressure areas or for children’s teeth.

During your appointment, your dentist will recommend the best material for your specific situation and walk you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

What to Expect During a Filling

Getting a filling is one of the quickest and most routine dental procedures there is. Here’s what happens step by step.
First, your dentist numbs the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. Once you’re comfortable, the decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed using a small dental drill or laser. The cavity is then cleaned and prepared to receive the filling material.
For composite fillings, the material is applied in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special curing light before the next one is placed. This layering technique creates a strong, durable bond with the tooth. Once all the layers are in place, your dentist shapes and polishes the filling so it matches the contours of your tooth and feels natural when you bite down.
The entire appointment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. Most patients can eat and return to their normal routine immediately after, once the numbness wears off.

When Should an Old Filling Be Replaced?

Fillings don’t last forever. Over time, the edges of a filling can wear down, chip, or pull away from the tooth, creating tiny gaps where bacteria and food particles can get trapped. If this happens, new decay can form underneath the old filling, often without you realizing it.

During your regular checkups at K&E Family Dental, we inspect your existing fillings for signs of wear, cracks, or leakage. If a filling needs to be replaced, we’ll catch it early, before it becomes a bigger problem.

Many patients also choose to replace old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored composite fillings for cosmetic reasons. If you have metal fillings that show when you smile or laugh, we can replace them with composite restorations that blend in with your natural teeth.

Why Lawndale Patients Choose K&E for Dental Fillings

Experienced, detail-oriented doctors. A filling may be a routine procedure, but the details matter. Proper shaping, bonding, and bite adjustment are the difference between a filling that lasts a decade and one that fails in two years. Our doctors bring years of experience to every restoration, no matter how small.
Natural-looking results. We take the time to match composite fillings to the exact shade of your tooth. The goal is a filling you can’t see or feel.
Gentle care for nervous patients. If the sound of a dental drill makes you tense, you’re not alone. We offer sedation options and a patient, reassuring approach to make sure you’re comfortable from start to finish.
Catch it early, keep it simple. Regular checkups at K&E mean we catch cavities when they’re small. A small filling today can prevent a crown or root canal tomorrow. That’s better for your tooth and easier on your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to commonly asked questions about Dental Crowns and Bridges.

Do fillings hurt?

No. We numb the area with local anesthesia before starting, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure or vibration, but the process is very comfortable. If you’re anxious, ask us about sedation options.

How long do dental fillings last?

It depends on the material and location. Composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years, and amalgam fillings can last 10 to 15 years or longer. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, many fillings last well beyond these averages.

Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?

For small to mid-sized cavities, yes. Composite technology has improved significantly, and tooth-colored fillings are now strong enough for most applications. For very large cavities on back molars with heavy chewing forces, your dentist may discuss whether amalgam or a different restoration like an onlay or crown would be a better fit.

Can I replace my old silver fillings with white ones?

Yes. Many patients choose to replace amalgam fillings with composite fillings for a more natural appearance. We’ll evaluate the condition of your existing filling and the tooth underneath to make sure a replacement makes sense.

How do I know if I have a cavity?

You may not know. Many cavities develop without symptoms, which is why regular dental exams and X-rays are so important. If you do experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, notice a dark spot on a tooth, or feel pain when biting down, schedule an appointment so we can take a look.

How many fillings can be done at once?

In many cases, we can fill multiple cavities in a single appointment, especially if they’re in the same area of the mouth. Your dentist will let you know the best approach based on the number and location of the cavities.