Dental Fillings in Burlington, NJ
- Dorfner Dental Studio
- Our Services
- Fillings
Rachel Dorfner, DMD
General and Cosmetic Dentistry located in Burlington, NJ
Catching a cavity early can make it possible to treat the tooth before more extensive damage develops and preserve more of its natural structure. At Dorfner Dental Studio in Burlington, NJ, Dr. Rachel Dorfner places tooth-colored composite dental fillings to restore teeth affected by decay or minor damage while maintaining a natural-looking smile.
We examine the affected tooth, discuss your treatment options, and explain the recommended care so you know what to expect before treatment begins. Dorfner Dental Studio holds a 5.0-star Google rating across more than 118 patient reviews.
Practice Owner and Lead Dentist: Dr. Rachel Dorfner, DMD
Advanced Training: NYU Langone Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency
Sedation Credential: Certified in conscious sedation for patients who may need additional support with dental anxiety
Google Reviews: 5.0-star rating across 118+ patient reviews
Signs You May Need a Dental Filling
Tooth sensitivity, discomfort while chewing, visible changes to a tooth, or problems with an existing filling can be signs that a tooth needs to be evaluated. However, some cavities cause few or no noticeable symptoms in their early stages. Routine dental checkups can identify decay or minor damage before it progresses and requires more extensive treatment.
Signs that may warrant a dental evaluation include:
- Recurring tooth sensitivity: Sensitivity to cold drinks, hot foods, or sweets, particularly when the same tooth is affected repeatedly.
- Pain or pressure when chewing: Discomfort when biting can indicate decay, damage, or another problem that should be evaluated.
- Visible or noticeable tooth changes: A rough edge, small chip, darkened area, visible pit, or food repeatedly catching around the same tooth may signal damage or decay.
- Changes to an existing filling: A filling that feels loose, cracked, worn, or has fallen out should be examined because the underlying tooth may no longer be fully protected.
An exam and X-rays when needed allow Dr. Dorfner to identify the cause of the problem and determine whether a composite filling or another type of treatment is appropriate. Addressing decay or minor damage early may help preserve more healthy tooth structure and reduce the need for a more extensive restoration.
What Happens During a Composite Filling Visit
If a composite filling is recommended, Dr. Dorfner explains the procedure before treatment begins and guides you through each step. Many uncomplicated fillings can be completed in a single visit, although treatment time and the number of appointments depend on the tooth, the size of the restoration, and your individual needs.
Exam and treatment confirmation: Dr. Dorfner evaluates the tooth and reviews the recommended restoration with you. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and understand the treatment plan before the procedure begins.
Numbing and comfort measures: Local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area, and Dr. Dorfner checks your comfort before proceeding. If you experience dental anxiety, she can also discuss available sedation dentistry options when appropriate.
Decay removal and restoration: Dr. Dorfner removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth while preserving healthy structure whenever possible. Composite resin is then placed, shaped, and hardened with a curing light to rebuild the affected area.
Polishing and bite check: The restoration is polished, and Dr. Dorfner checks how your teeth come together when you bite. Small adjustments can be made as needed so the filling feels comfortable and does not interfere with your bite.
Before you leave, Dr. Dorfner will review any immediate aftercare instructions and let you know what sensations are normal as the numbness wears off. The next section covers how to care for your filling once treatment is complete.
Caring for Your Filling After Treatment
Follow the aftercare instructions Dr. Dorfner provides for your specific treatment. While your mouth is still numb, avoid chewing until normal sensation has returned to reduce the chance of accidentally biting your cheek, tongue, or lip. If the treated tooth feels tender afterward, softer foods may be more comfortable for a short time.
Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure can occur for a short time after a composite filling. Continue brushing twice daily and flossing around the restored tooth as directed to help keep the tooth and surrounding gums clean.
If the filled tooth seems to contact first when you bite down, your bite feels uneven, or chewing causes sharp pressure, contact Dorfner Dental Studio. Dr. Dorfner can check the restoration and determine whether a small bite adjustment is needed.
Persistent or worsening pain, swelling, or sensitivity should be evaluated rather than ignored. Contact Dorfner Dental Studio if symptoms do not improve or become more noticeable after treatment. Regular dental checkups also allow Dr. Dorfner to monitor the filling and the surrounding tooth structure over time.
When a Filling May Not Be the Best Restoration
A dental filling may be appropriate when decay or minor damage is limited and enough healthy tooth structure remains to support the restoration. A filling may not provide adequate protection when a tooth has extensive decay, a large fracture, significant loss of structure, or symptoms that suggest the pulp inside the tooth may be affected.
What Dr. Dorfner Evaluates Before Recommending a Filling
Before recommending a filling, Dr. Rachel Dorfner evaluates the extent of decay or damage, reviews X-rays when needed, considers how the tooth meets the opposing teeth, and assesses the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining. These factors help determine whether a conservative filling can adequately restore the tooth or whether a different restorative treatment would provide better protection.
A dental crown may be considered when the tooth needs more complete coverage because too much structure has been weakened or lost for a filling alone to provide sufficient support. Dr. Dorfner will explain the appropriate options after evaluating the affected tooth.
Patients who already have a crown may also develop decay around or beneath the restoration. Learn more about whether a cavity can develop under a crown and when the tooth should be evaluated.
Dental Filling FAQs
How do I know if I need a dental filling?
You may need a dental filling if you have recurring sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, visible damage, or signs of decay. However, some cavities cause no noticeable symptoms, so a dental exam is the most reliable way to determine whether a filling or another treatment is appropriate.
Are composite fillings the same as white or tooth-colored fillings?
Yes. Composite fillings are commonly called white fillings or tooth-colored fillings. They use a resin material that can be matched to the surrounding enamel and bonded directly to the tooth to restore its shape and function.
Does getting a cavity filling hurt?
Local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area, and Dr. Dorfner checks your comfort before proceeding. You may notice pressure or vibration during the procedure, and you should let the team know if you feel discomfort. Patients with dental anxiety can also ask whether conscious sedation is appropriate for their visit.
What should I do while my mouth is numb after a filling?
Wait until normal sensation has returned before chewing so you do not accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue. Follow the aftercare instructions provided for your treatment, and contact Dorfner Dental Studio if discomfort or sensitivity becomes persistent or worsens.
Why does my new filling feel high when I bite down?
A new filling may feel high if it contacts the opposing tooth before the rest of your bite comes together. If your bite feels uneven or you notice sharp pressure or pain while chewing, contact the office so Dr. Dorfner can check the restoration and determine whether an adjustment is needed.
Can an old filling be repaired or replaced?
An old filling may need repair or replacement if it is cracked, worn, loose, uncomfortable, or if new decay has developed around it. An intact filling does not automatically need to be replaced, so Dr. Dorfner will evaluate the tooth and restoration before recommending treatment. To have an existing filling checked, request an appointment at Dorfner Dental Studio.