Cavity Fillings
Professional Cavity Fillings
What You Need to Know
What it is: Quick, painless procedure to repair cavities and restore your tooth's function. Modern composite fillings restore your tooth's strength while looking completely natural.
Typical appointment time: 30-60 minutes, often same-day
Recovery/Results timeline: Minimal - return to normal activities immediately
- • Early cavities and tooth decay
- • Cosmetic concerns with white, tooth-colored fillings
- • Tooth sensitivity or pain from decay
- • Cavity prevention and restoration
Understanding Cavity Fillings
Quick Relief From Cavities
If you've noticed tooth sensitivity or pain in Nashville, a cavity filling can solve it quickly. Cavities are areas of decay that, if left untreated, can grow larger and lead to more serious problems. The good news is that modern filling treatments are fast, painless, and highly effective at stopping decay and restoring your tooth.
A cavity filling works by removing the decayed portion of your tooth and filling the space with a durable, tooth-colored material. Modern composite fillings offer significant advantages over older amalgam materials—they're nearly invisible, bond directly to your tooth for better restoration, and allow your dentist to be more precise in removing only the decayed area. At Nations Dental Studio in Nashville, we use advanced composite materials that match your natural tooth color perfectly, so nobody will know you had a filling.
Early treatment is key. When cavities are caught early, fillings are quick and affordable. The longer you wait, the larger the cavity becomes and the more extensive (and expensive) your treatment may need to be. That's why we encourage regular checkups and prompt treatment of any cavities we detect. If you've experienced sensitivity or pain, don't wait—convenient treatment is available in Nashville today.
Your Visit
What to Expect During Cavity Filling
Before Your Appointment
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Schedule at the first sign of sensitivity or cavity symptoms
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Bring your insurance card to help us verify coverage
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Let us know if you have dental anxiety so we can discuss sedation options
During Your Visit
Examination and X-Ray
We'll examine the cavity and take X-rays to assess its size and depth. This helps us determine if a simple filling will work or if a more complex restoration like a crown might be needed.
Local Anesthetic
We'll apply a topical numbing agent and then administer local anesthesia. You'll feel pressure but no pain during the procedure. Our gentle technique means most patients feel very little during the filling.
Decay Removal
We carefully remove the decayed portion of your tooth using precision instruments. Modern techniques allow us to remove only the decay while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Filling Application
The cleaned cavity is filled with composite resin material that we shape and harden with a special light. We'll match the filling to your natural tooth color for a seamless result.
Polish and Adjustment
We polish the filling and check your bite to ensure comfortable chewing. You'll leave with a fully restored, natural-looking tooth.
After Treatment
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Avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours while the filling fully hardens
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Your tooth may feel slightly different for a few days—this is normal
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers if you experience any sensitivity
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Return to normal brushing and flossing the next day
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Schedule regular checkups to prevent future cavities
Nations Dental Studio Difference
Why Patients Trust Us for Cavity Fillings
Advanced Composite Materials
We use the latest tooth-colored composite materials that are more durable, more natural-looking, and bond better to your tooth than older amalgam fillings. Your restored tooth looks completely natural.
Gentle, Painless Techniques
Our experienced team uses modern anesthetic techniques and precision instruments to make the filling process as comfortable as possible. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
Sedation Options Available
If you experience dental anxiety, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and other sedation options to help you relax during treatment.
Insurance and Payment Plans
We work with most insurance plans and offer flexible payment options including FSA/HSA payments and financing through healthcare credit services to make treatment affordable.
Is a Cavity Filling Right for You?
Good Candidates for Cavity Fillings
You may be a good candidate if:
- ✓
Anyone with a cavity or early tooth decay
- ✓
Patients experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain
- ✓
People who want tooth-colored, natural-looking restorations
- ✓
Patients with small to medium-sized cavities
- ✓
Children and adults seeking cavity treatment
Other options may be better if:
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For very large cavities affecting more than 50% of the tooth, a dental crown may be a better restoration
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If decay has reached the nerve, root canal therapy may be necessary first
Early cavities are best treated with fillings. If you're concerned about tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible decay, schedule a consultation. Early treatment prevents bigger, more expensive problems down the road.
Your Questions Answered
Common Questions About Cavity Fillings
Do cavity fillings hurt?
No. We use local anesthesia to numb your tooth and surrounding area before treatment. You'll feel pressure and vibration but no pain. Most patients report that the numbing injection is the only briefly uncomfortable part, and modern techniques make even that minimal.
How much does a cavity filling cost?
Cavity fillings typically cost $100-$300 depending on the size and location of the cavity. Most dental insurance covers a significant portion of the cost, often 80%. We'll provide a cost estimate before treatment and can discuss payment options including FSA/HSA payments and financing plans.
How long do cavity fillings last?
Modern composite fillings typically last 7-10 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular checkups. They eventually wear down over time, but with proper care, most fillings remain effective for many years.
What are cavity fillings made of?
We use tooth-colored composite resin fillings, which are made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles. These materials bond directly to your tooth, are durable, and match your natural tooth color perfectly. Some older fillings are amalgam (silver-colored), but we recommend composite for better aesthetics and durability.
Does insurance cover cavity fillings?
Most dental insurance plans cover cavity fillings at 80% after your deductible. Composite (white) fillings may have slightly different coverage than amalgam (silver) fillings, so we'll verify your specific coverage. We're happy to check your benefits before your appointment.
Can I eat normally after a filling?
Yes, but wait a few hours. We recommend avoiding hard, sticky, or hot foods for the first 24 hours while the filling fully hardens. After that, you can eat normally. Avoid chewing on the treated side for the first day if possible.
How do I prevent future cavities?
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary foods and drinks, and visit us for regular cleanings and checkups (typically every 6 months). Good oral hygiene and early detection are your best defenses against cavities.
Can kids get cavity fillings?
Yes. Children can develop cavities and benefit from fillings. We use the same painless techniques and make the experience comfortable and friendly for young patients. Regular dental checkups help us catch cavities early in children before they become problems.
Complementary Treatments
You May Also Be Interested In
Dental Crowns
A custom tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and natural appearance while protecting it from further decay and fracture.
Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric dentistry provides specialized dental care designed specifically for children's needs, from their first tooth through their teenage years. Kids dentists have extra training in working with children and creating comfortable, anxiety-free dental experiences.
Root Canal
A procedure that removes infected or inflamed pulp (the nerve tissue inside your tooth), cleans and disinfects the canal system, and seals it to save the tooth from extraction. Despite its reputation, modern root canal therapy is gentle, effective, and eliminates pain rather than causing it.
Teeth Cleaning & Dental Exams
Teeth cleaning and dental exams are routine preventive services that remove plaque and tartar buildup and check for oral health issues to prevent problems before they start.
Stop Cavity Pain Today
Schedule Your Cavity Filling in Nashville
Don't let a cavity become a bigger problem. Nations Dental Studio provides quick, painless cavity fillings with modern composite materials that look completely natural. Schedule your appointment today and get back to enjoying your smile without pain or sensitivity.
Reviews
We have worked with thousands of amazing patients
Nations Dental Studio has over 448 reviews and a 5.0 rating on Google
"I always dread the dentist but Dr. D'Aoust made me feel so comfortable. She was personable and friendly. 10 out of 10 recommend!!"
"Totally love this place! Everyone I met on my first visit today was fabulous. I had been impressed with Dr. D'Aoust at a practice where she had worked previously, and when my insurance changed, I decided to give her new practice a try. Not only is she great, but the staff she has working with her is wonderful. Professional, personable, thorough, and delightful. Who knew one could look forward to the next trip to the dentist's office? Thanks for a great experience today!"
"Best dental office I've ever been to. Dr. D'Aoust is friendly, calming and so knowledgeable - she really knows her stuff! I was very comfortable during my procedure, barely realized she was working on me. The office is also gorgeous and very clean. I highly recommend."
"I always dread the dentist but Dr. D'Aoust made me feel so comfortable. She was personable and friendly. 10 out of 10 recommend!!"
"Totally love this place! Everyone I met on my first visit today was fabulous. I had been impressed with Dr. D'Aoust at a practice where she had worked previously, and when my insurance changed, I decided to give her new practice a try. Not only is she great, but the staff she has working with her is wonderful. Professional, personable, thorough, and delightful. Who knew one could look forward to the next trip to the dentist's office? Thanks for a great experience today!"
"Best dental office I've ever been to. Dr. D'Aoust is friendly, calming and so knowledgeable - she really knows her stuff! I was very comfortable during my procedure, barely realized she was working on me. The office is also gorgeous and very clean. I highly recommend."
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