Why You Might Need a Dental Filling

At our Anchorage dental office, tooth-colored fillings are one of the most common and effective ways to repair a tooth that has been damaged by a cavity. But what exactly is a cavity—and why does it require treatment?

A cavity is a small hole or area of decay that forms in the hard surface of your tooth, usually caused by a buildup of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that feeds on sugars from food and drinks. When these bacteria consume sugar, they produce acid that gradually erodes the enamel—the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this erosion can penetrate deeper into the tooth, leading to permanent damage.

If caught early, cavities may not cause any symptoms. But as they grow, they can lead to:

  • Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
  • Pain when chewing or biting
  • Visible dark spots, pits, or holes in the teeth
  • A dull ache or throbbing sensation in the affected area

Once a cavity has formed, it won’t go away on its own. If left untreated, it can spread deeper into the tooth, potentially reaching the inner pulp and causing an infection that may require more extensive treatment like a root canal or extraction.

A dental filling allows your dentist to remove the decayed portion of the tooth and replace it with a durable material that seals and restores the structure. This not only relieves symptoms but also prevents the decay from progressing further—helping to preserve your natural tooth for many years to come. It’s one of the key preventive dental services we offer at our Anchorage office to maintain long-term oral health.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

While metal amalgam fillings were the standard for over 150 years, tooth-colored fillings—made from composite resin or ceramic—have become the preferred choice for both aesthetic and functional reasons.

Unlike silver amalgam, tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. When carefully placed and polished, they are virtually invisible. There’s no risk of dark metal showing through, and they won’t oxidize or discolor your teeth or gums over time.

Composite fillings also preserve more of your natural tooth structure. Because they chemically bond to the tooth, less material needs to be removed during placement compared to amalgam, which relies on mechanical pressure to stay in place. This bonding not only strengthens the tooth but also creates a tight seal that helps prevent bacteria and fluids from seeping in—reducing the risk of recurrent decay.

Additionally, composite materials offer thermal insulation, which can reduce sensitivity to hot and cold. Unlike metal, they don’t conduct temperature changes into the tooth as readily, making them a more comfortable option for many patients in Anchorage seeking both durability and comfort.

There’s also an important health and environmental consideration: tooth-colored fillings are mercury-free. Amalgam fillings contain about 50% mercury by weight. While considered safe by the ADA and FDA, some patients prefer to avoid mercury exposure altogether, especially with growing concerns over its long-term impact and environmental accumulation.

When a Filling Isn’t Enough

While dental fillings are ideal for treating small to moderate areas of decay or minor fractures, they aren’t always the best solution for more extensive damage. If too much of your tooth structure is compromised, a simple filling may not provide the strength or protection needed to restore full function.

At our Anchorage dental office, we also provide a full range of restorative dental care options when a filling isn’t sufficient.

Inlays and Onlays

When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to require a full crown, inlays and onlays may be the right option. These restorations are custom-made from porcelain or composite materials and are bonded to the tooth.

  • Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth’s biting surface.
  • Onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps and provide greater coverage.

They are more durable than fillings and preserve more of your natural tooth than a crown would.

Dental Crowns

If a tooth has large decay, a deep fracture, or has undergone root canal therapy, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that fully covers the tooth above the gum line, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Crowns are often recommended when:

  • More than 50% of the tooth structure is lost
  • Cracks or fractures threaten the integrity of the tooth
  • A large filling is failing or leaking
  • You’ve had root canal treatment and need to protect the weakened tooth

Other Restorative Solutions

In more complex cases—such as severe tooth damage, missing teeth, or full arch reconstruction—restorative options may include:

At our Anchorage dental office, restorative dentistry goes beyond just fixing teeth. Our goal is to return strength, stability, and natural function to your bite—while also improving the appearance of your smile.

Restore and Protect Your Smile in Anchorage

Whether you need a small cavity filled or more advanced restorative care, our Anchorage dental office is here to help you preserve your natural teeth and maintain a healthy, confident smile. We believe in addressing problems early—before they grow into something more serious—and offering the most modern, comfortable solutions available.

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, discomfort, or haven’t had a dental exam in a while, now is the perfect time to schedule a visit. From tooth-colored fillings to crowns, inlays, and implants, we offer comprehensive preventive and restorative care right here in Anchorage.

Call (907) 349-0022 today to take the next step toward a stronger, healthier smile. Let us help you feel confident in your dental health—now and for years to come.