Dental Fillings in Germantown, MD

Restoring Teeth with Long-Lasting, Natural-Looking Results

Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health issues — but when caught early, it’s also one of the easiest to treat. At Vitelli Comprehensive Dentistry in Germantown, MD, Dr. Adam Vitelli, DMD, provides modern, tooth-colored dental fillings to stop cavities and restore your tooth’s strength and appearance. We use advanced materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and ensure a durable, comfortable result without the use of metal or outdated techniques.

What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are restorations used to repair areas of a tooth that have been damaged by decay or minor fractures. Once the decay is removed, the space is filled with a strong, biocompatible material to rebuild the tooth’s structure and protect it from further damage.

At our practice, we use composite resin for most fillings because of its aesthetic and functional benefits. It’s color-matched to your enamel, bonds securely to the tooth surface, and allows for conservative treatment — meaning we preserve more of your natural tooth.

Fillings are often recommended after routine dental checkups and cleanings, when early cavities or worn enamel are detected.

Signs You Might Need a Dental Filling

Tooth decay isn’t always obvious in the early stages. That’s why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly. However, if you're experiencing any of the following, a filling may be needed:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Visible holes or dark spots on teeth
• Sharp or aching pain when chewing
• A chipped or rough surface on a tooth
• Food consistently getting stuck in the same area

If a cavity goes untreated, it may progress into the inner layers of the tooth, eventually requiring more extensive treatment like a root canal or dental crown.

Our Dental Filling Process

We make the process of getting a filling simple, comfortable, and efficient:

1. Diagnosis: We use advanced diagnostics, including digital X-rays and thorough examinations, to identify decay.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area before treatment begins.
3. Decay Removal: The damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed using modern, conservative techniques.
4. Filling Placement: A composite resin is layered into the cavity, shaped to match your bite, and cured with a special light.
5. Polishing: The tooth is polished for a smooth, natural look and feel.

For patients with dental anxiety, we offer nitrous oxide sedation to help you feel calm throughout your visit.

Tooth-Colored Composite vs. Traditional Metal Fillings

Composite fillings are the preferred choice at Vitelli Comprehensive Dentistry for several reasons:

• Matches the natural color of your teeth
• Bonds directly to the tooth structure for added strength
• Requires less removal of healthy tooth material
• Free of mercury and other metals
• Less sensitivity to temperature changes

If you have old metal fillings that are failing or visible when you smile, Dr. Vitelli can evaluate whether replacing them with composite fillings is right for you.

Preventing Future Cavities

While fillings are a reliable solution for repairing decay, prevention is always the goal. We help our patients protect their smiles with:

• Regular cleanings and checkups
• Fluoride treatments and dental sealants (especially for kids)
• Personalized guidance on home care routines
• Early detection with the help of digital scanning technology

If you’re concerned about cavity risk, our team will work with you to create a preventive plan tailored to your needs.

FAQs About Dental Fillings

How long do composite fillings last?
With proper care, composite fillings typically last between 7 to 10 years or longer.

Is getting a filling painful?
No. Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area, and most patients experience little to no discomfort. We also offer anxiety-free dentistry for added comfort.

Can I eat right after a filling?
You can eat once the numbness wears off. It's best to start with soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the filled tooth for a few hours.

Will the filling be noticeable?
Not at all. Composite fillings are custom-shaded to blend naturally with your surrounding teeth.

What if I have multiple cavities?
If more than one filling is needed, we’ll schedule your care in stages to ensure your comfort and convenience.