Dental Fillings in San Francisco, CA
Traditional dental restoratives, or fillings, are most often made of silver amalgam. The strength and durability of this traditional dental material makes it useful for situations where restored teeth must withstand extreme forces that result from chewing, often in the back of the mouth.
Newer dental fillings include ceramic and plastic compounds that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. These compounds, often called composite resins, are usually used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important, but they can also be used on the back teeth depending on the location and extent of the tooth decay.
At Union Square Dental Practice, dental fillings are used to restore teeth affected by cavities, minor fractures, and worn tooth structure. Our goal is to repair damage, preserve healthy tooth structure, and help your smile function comfortably and naturally.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorations used to repair small to moderate areas of tooth damage. They are most commonly used after tooth decay is removed, but they can also restore chipped, cracked, or worn teeth.
A filling replaces the damaged portion of the tooth and helps restore normal shape, strength, and function.
When Do You Need a Dental Filling?
You may need a dental filling if you have:
- A cavity
- Tooth sensitivity
- Minor tooth fracture
- Worn enamel
- A chipped tooth
- Food trapping between teeth
- An old filling that is leaking, loose, or damaged
Early treatment can help prevent decay from spreading and reduce the need for more extensive care.
What Type of Filling Is Right for Me?
Several factors influence the performance, durability, longevity, and expense of dental restorations, including:
- The components used in the filling material
- The amount of tooth structure remaining
- Where and how the filling is placed
- The chewing load that the tooth will have to bear
- The length and number of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth
Before your treatment begins we will discuss with you all of your options and help you choose the best filling for your particular case. In preparation for this discussion it may be helpful to understand the two basic types of dental fillings — direct and indirect.
Types of Dental Filling Materials
Direct Fillings
Direct fillings are fillings placed into a prepared cavity in a single visit. They include silver amalgam, glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and composite (resin) fillings. The dentist prepares the tooth, places the filling, and adjusts it in one appointment.
Indirect Fillings
Indirect fillings generally require two or more visits. They include inlays, onlays, and veneers fabricated with gold, base metal alloys, ceramics, or composites. They are used when a tooth has too much damage to support a filling but not enough to necessitate a crown. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and makes an impression of the area to be restored. The dentist then places a temporary covering over the prepared tooth.
The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, which creates the dental restoration. At the next appointment, the dentist cements the restoration into the prepared cavity and adjusts it as needed.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
- Repairs cavities and minor tooth damage
- Helps prevent decay from spreading
- Restores chewing function
- Preserves more natural tooth structure
- Protects weakened areas of the tooth
- Can improve tooth appearance with tooth-colored materials
- Helps reduce sensitivity caused by decay or damage
What to Expect During a Dental Filling
Step 1: Exam and Diagnosis
We evaluate the tooth and may use diagnostic imaging to determine the size and location of the decay or damage.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
Step 3: Filling Placement
The filling material is placed, shaped, and bonded or packed into the prepared area.
Step 4: Bite Adjustment
The restoration is adjusted so your bite feels comfortable and natural.
Step 5: Polishing
The filling is polished for a smooth finish and improved comfort.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
Dental fillings can last many years depending on the material used, the size of the restoration, oral hygiene, diet, and bite forces.
Regular dental checkups help monitor fillings for wear, leakage, cracks, or recurrent decay.
Cost of Dental Fillings in San Francisco
The cost of a dental filling depends on the tooth being treated, the size of the restoration, the material used, and whether additional treatment is needed.
Union Square Dental Practice provides:
- Personalized treatment recommendations
- Tooth-colored filling options
- Transparent cost estimates
- Guidance on insurance and payment options
A detailed estimate is provided during your visit.
Why Choose Union Square Dental Practice for Dental Fillings
- Conservative approach focused on preserving tooth structure
- Natural-looking tooth-colored filling options
- Comprehensive restorative and preventive care
- Convenient downtown San Francisco location
- Personalized recommendations based on your tooth, bite, and goals
Dental Fillings in Downtown San Francisco
Union Square Dental Practice provides dental fillings in downtown San Francisco for patients who need to restore cavities, worn teeth, chipped teeth, or damaged restorations.
The office is located at:
450 Sutter St #2414
San Francisco, CA 94108
Office hours:
Monday: 8 am – 5 pm
Tuesday: 8 am – 5 pm
Wednesday: 8 am – 5 pm
Thursday: 8 am – 5 pm
Friday–Sunday: Closed
Our Dental Practice is Located in the Financial District of Downtown San Francisco
For more information about our Dental Fillings in San Francisco, or to schedule an appointment, please call our office at (415) 693-9139 or send an email to: info@unionsquaredental.com.