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+ 1 415-499-1717

appointments@evosmile.com

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750 Las Gallinas Ave, Suite 210

San Rafael, CA 94903

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Open Monday - Thursday

Closed Friday - Sunday

Home / Dental Services / Restorative Dentistry / Dental Fillings

Dental Fillings
DR. IGOR OCHEV, SAN RAFAEL DENTIST

“If I have a cavity, do I need a dental filling?”

The answer depends on the amount of tooth decay. For example, if it’s caught very early, we might be able to manage it with fluoride treatments or a dental sealant. If it’s too late for these methods, then you’ll likely need a dental filling, inlay or onlay, crown (cap), or even an extraction.

Keep in mind, dental fillings are not just for cavities. We also use them to repair chipped, cracked, and broken teeth, fix worn teeth, replace old or damaged fillings, and even close the spaces between teeth.

Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today.

5 Reasons for Dental Fillings

Restore a decayed tooth

Restore a chipped tooth

Restore a cracked or broken tooth

Restore a worn tooth

Close the space between two teeth

Composite Fillings For a Natural Look

Aesthetically, choosing a composite filling makes perfects sense. Because it’s tooth-colored, Dr. Igor Ochev can closely match it to the color of your existing teeth.

A dental filling is very durable and will last many years. However, as with most dental restorations, you may need to replace it someday due to normal wear.

DID YOU KNOW?
Not all composite fillings are alike, and neither are the dentists who perform them. Dr. Ochev has been voted six times as Best Esthetic Dentist in Pacific Sun’s “Best of Marin” Readers’ Poll.

GETTING A DENTAL FILLING
What to Expect

It usually takes one appointment to place a filling. Many types of composite filling materials are available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Dr. Ochev discusses the best option with you.

Your Visit

While your tooth is numb, Dr. Ochev gently removes the affected portion of your tooth. He thoroughly cleans the space and carefully prepares it for your new composite filling. If there’s decay near the nerve of the tooth, he treats it with a special medication for added protection. Then, he precisely places, shapes, and polishes your new filling, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

What to Expect After

It’s normal to experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold on your tooth — the feeling will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to its new filling.

Caring for Your New Composite Filling

You’ll receive care instructions at the end of your treatment. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions. To aid in the life of your new filling, please practice good oral hygiene and eating habits, and remember to see us regularly.

If you’d like to learn more about composite fillings, we think this medically-reviewed Healthline article does a good job of giving you a well-rounded overview.

Our Other Restorative Dental Services

Porcelain Inlays & Onlays

You might need one to treat a larger cavity, or damage to the biting surface or the cusps.

Porcelain Crowns (Caps)

You might need one for a severely damaged tooth, very large cavity, or after a root canal.

Porcelain Bridges

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between the adjacent ones.

Partial and Full Dentures

Custom-made and removable, dentures replace some or all of your teeth in an arch.

Implant Restorations

A crown, bridge, or denture that securely attaches to an implant post in the jawbone.

TMJ Treatment

Pain in your jaw and/or nearby areas like your neck or head might stem from your jaw joint(s).

Patient Savings & Financial Options

At EvoSmile, dental care is empathy care.

Your oral health profoundly affects your overall health. For this reason, we would never want you to hold off on your dental care because of cost — whether or not you carry insurance. This is why we offer the following solutions to ease your worry and your pocketbook.

New Patient Offer

Get a comprehensive dental exam including necessary X-rays, an oral cancer screening, a periodontal exam, a TMJ evaluation, and a regular cleaning.

No Insurance? Save with Us

If you don’t have insurance, you'll want to take a look at our very own savings plans. We designed them with your dental needs in mind.

Financing & Payment Options

If you’re interested in affordable financing and monthly payments, we offer options from CareCredit and Cherry.

Insurance Benefits

We’re an out-of-network dental office that accepts insured patients with PPO plans. Get answers to commonly asked questions.