Updated on August 12, 2025
It can be easy to put off dental work. You might be having some tooth discomfort and simply hoping it will go away. But when you're proactive about filling a dental cavity, there’s an easy fix. And today's dental fillings are made of durable composite resin, which is also tooth-colored, so it matches your tooth and blends in with your smile.
Other benefits of our cavity filling procedure include:
- Can be finished in one visit
- A painless procedure with local anesthesia
- Preservation of the natural tooth
- A durable restoration that can last 7-12 years with proper care
The process for completing a dental cavity filling in Columbus, OH, at Shiflett Family Dental is straightforward, and we strive to make you as comfortable as possible during your visit. Here's everything you need to know about the cavity filling procedure.
What Are the Advantages of Composite Resin Fillings?
Although there are a variety of cavity-filling materials available, at Shiflett Family Dental, we primarily use tooth-colored composite resin. Historically, dentists used silver amalgam fillings. These are a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, copper, and tin. Now, there are better alternatives.
Composite resin fillings are made of plastic and glass compounds, which can be matched to the color of the tooth being filled. Composite fillings offer several advantages over silver fillings, including:
- Durability, and they don't react to temperature changes in the mouth the way that metal amalgams can. This can cause metal fillings to expand, contract, and pull away from the tooth.
- Tooth-colored fillings are aesthetically pleasing and aren't noticeable when you smile.
- Composite material bonds directly to your tooth and preserves more of your natural tooth structure.
Other materials can be used for fillings, such as ceramic or lonomer glass, but they tend to have downsides, such as expense or less durability than composite fillings.
Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling Is Easy!
When you arrive for your cavity filling procedure, our team makes sure you are comfortable from the moment you walk through the door. We’ll ensure you’re settled in one of our modern treatment rooms, and we’ll answer any questions you might have about your procedure. Then, Dr. Shiflett will begin filling in your cavity.
First, he numbs the area around the tooth to ensure that you're comfortable throughout the procedure. Next, he gently removes the decayed area from your tooth. When he's sure your tooth is healthy and free of decay, he customizes composite resin, blending it to your tooth's shade. Next, he carefully places the resin in your tooth and cures it with a special light to harden it. He does this in layers until he's filled the cavity.
The final step is to polish the tooth, so the filling blends flawlessly with it, and he adjusts it if needed to ensure that your bite is functioning correctly. Now, your tooth is ready to chew food and function normally again. You'll also appreciate how it complements your smile, as no one will notice your dental filling.
After Your Procedure
Following your procedure, you may have some numbness for a few hours as the local anesthetic wears off. This is expected and completely normal. During this time, be especially careful when eating or drinking to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek.
We recommend avoiding very hot or cold foods or drinks for a few days after your procedure. In the future, it’s best to avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, or pens so that your fillings don’t fall out.
It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene after a filling, brushing twice a day, and flossing. Keep an eye out for any cracks in your fillings. If one falls out, call your dentist immediately. We can schedule an emergency appointment if needed.
Don’t Put Fillings Off! We Can Help Get You Started
Are you looking for the best dentist in Columbus, OH, to repair your tooth? Look no further than Dr. Justin Shiflett and his team at Shiflett Family Dental. We’re dedicated to making you feel comfortable, taking the time to get to know you and your dental needs, and educating you about how to maintain the best oral health possible.
We’re not here to push you into anything. We want to empower you to make the best decision for you! Consider giving us a call today at (614) 968-7141 to learn more about how we can help you.