Dental tooth fillings in Atherton, CA

Dental fillings are a painless procedure used to restore teeth affected by decay. Our dental fillings at Atherton Smiles are done by removing decayed material, cleaning the cavity, and filling it with a tooth-colored resin. We offer cosmetic tooth-colored fillings for a natural look and ensure you keep a healthy smile with early prevention. Book your appointment with us today!

What are dental fillings?

Dental fillings, also known as cavity fillings, are a common and painless procedure used to restore teeth affected by decay. A dental filling at Atherton Smiles involves removing decayed material, cleaning the cavity, and filling it with a suitable material to prevent further damage. The tooth filling cost can vary based on the material used and the complexity of the procedure.

So what is the dental filling process?

At Atherton Smiles, we believe in a professional and transparent approach. Your dentist in Atherton will take you through the whole process of your dental fillings during your first consultation. Here is the process of a dental filling at Atherton Smiles:

  1. Examination and diagnosis: Your dentist in Atherton will examine the tooth and may take X-rays to assess the extent of decay.
  2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered by our Atherton dental professional to numb the affected area and ensure a painless procedure.
  3. Decay removal: The decayed tooth material is removed by your orthodontist at Atherton Smiles using a dental drill or laser.
  4. Cleaning the cavity: Your Atherton dentist will make sure the cavity is thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria and debris.
  5. Filling the cavity: The cleaned cavity is filled with a chosen filling material (for example, composite resin or amalgam fillings).
  6. Shaping and contouring: The dentist at our Atherton dental clinic shapes and contours the filling to match the natural tooth structure.
  7. Hardening: A special light may be used by your dentist to harden composite resin fillings.
  8. Polishing: Your dentist will proceed to polish the filling to smooth out any rough edges and ensure a natural look and feel.

After your dental filling procedure, our Atherton dental team will provide you with post-procedure instructions. You will be guided on oral care and given a list of foods to avoid (such as hard or sticky foods).

What is it like to visit us?

Who needs a tooth filling?

A patient might need a dental filling at Atherton Smiles if they experience symptoms such as:

  • Toothache
  • Sensitivity
  • Visible holes in their teeth

It is important you schedule regular checkups with your dentist in Atherton, as early cavities often go unnoticed and can only be detected during these checkups at our Atherton dental clinic. 

Ignoring early decay can lead to more severe issues resulting in higher costs and more extensive treatments, such as:

  • The need for a root canal
  • Tooth extraction
  • Tooth loss

The main benefits of dental fillings are:

  • Tooth function restoration, allowing chewing and biting.
  • Prevention of further decay, which could lead to other more important dental procedures.
  • Decreasing tooth pain caused by decay.
  • Preservation of your natural tooth.
  • Improvement of oral health, reducing risks of infections.
  • Dental fillings being a quick and minimally invasive procedure.

At Atherton Smiles, we prioritize early prevention and offer cosmetic tooth-colored fillings to ensure your smile remains healthy and attractive. Regular dental checkups and prompt treatment of cavities can save you from significant dental problems and expenses in the future. 

It is worth noting that dental insurance typically covers two checkups a year, making it crucial to attend these appointments for early detection. As previously mentioned, ignoring early decay can lead to more severe issues, such as the need for a root canal, tooth extraction, or even tooth loss, resulting in higher costs and more extensive treatments.

Angela / Dental Cleaning

“They made me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. I'm just so happy with the results.”

Martin / Dental Exam

“Dr. G was super thorough and took her time to answer all my questions. Never had such a detailed exam before.”

Jessica / Dental Emergency

“I needed help fast and Atherton Smiles was there for me. Dr. G and her staff were so calming and amazing.”

Alan / Dental Implants

“They made me feel really at ease. The procedure was so much easier than I expected."

Sheila / Teeth Whitening

“I felt no discomfort or sensitivity. My teeth were noticeably whiter. I highly recommend Atherton Smiles.”

Why choose our dental fillings services

Prevention Experts

Our expert dentists at Atherton Smiles will ensure you experience painless decay prevention and dental filling procedures. Your Atherton dental professional will thoroughly examine your teeth and take you through the dental filling procedure smoothly and professionally.

Professional & Transparent Approach

Our Atherton dental team uses a professional and transparent approach when dealing with patients. We will explain in details what is a cavity filling and the process behind the procedure. Our goal is for our patients to be the most comfortable during their treatment.

Affordable

There are many options when it comes to covering a tooth filling cost. Our Atherton dental team will make sure to assist you through affordable financing options. We offer interest-free monthly payments and guidance on insurance. No surprises and no unexpected bills!

Book an appointment for dental fillings in Atherton, CA

Looking for a tooth filling near me? You have arrived. Starting your treatment at Atherton Smiles is simple. Here are the steps to follow:

/01

Book your appointment

Scheduling your first visit with your dentist at Atherton Smiles is easy. Book online, phone, or email.

/02

Consultation

Your initial consultation will involve one of our Atherton dental professionals assessing your case.

/03

Treatment

Your treatment will be scheduled and your dental filling in Atherton will be completed in one visit.

More about us

What clients say about our dental fillings in Atherton, CA

Patient satisfaction is our top priority. If you are soon visiting Atherton Smiles for a tooth filling dental procedure, read about our clients' experiences with dental fillings in Atherton:

Visit Atherton Smiles in Atherton, CA

If you are searching for a dentist for dental fillings in Atherton, you have arrived to your destination. Atherton Smiles is situated on El Camino Real Road. Our Atherton dental clinic is easily accessible to residents and visitors from Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Redwood City. Located in the Atherton Square Center, predominantly home to medical offices, we ensure a convenient and efficient dental visit.

Our Atherton dental clinic is just a short drive from well-known spots like Chavez Supermarket and the Shell gas station. For those using public transit, the Atherton Caltrain Station is only 0.7 miles away, about a 15-minute walk.  Atherton Smiles delivers exceptional professional care for dental fillings and other services such as teeth whitening in a comfortable setting.

Book your appointment today and enjoy outstanding dental care right here in Atherton. We can’t wait for you to visit us!

Atherton Smiles

Address

3351 El Camino Real #235
Atherton, CA 94027

Phone Number

+1 (650) 365-1533

Email

care@athertonsmiles.com

Ask us anything!

Ask away, and we promise to deliver a flawless experience.

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Frequently asked questions

Is a dental filling painful?

A dental filling is generally not painful. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the affected area and ensures comfort throughout the process. Patients may feel slight pressure or vibration, but not pain.

It is safe to say that a dental filling in Atherton will involve:

  • Local anesthesia: Your dentist in Atherton will numb the area, ensuring a painless procedure.
  • Minimal discomfort: Patients may experience minor pressure or vibration.
  • Post-procedure sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may occur but usually subsides within a few days.
How long do dental fillings last?

The longevity of dental fillings depends on the material used by your Atherton dental professional, as well as your oral hygiene practices.

Each type of dental filling has a different durability than the others.

  • Amalgam fillings: Typically last 10 to 15 years due to their durability.
  • Composite fillings: Usually last 5 to 7 years but can last longer with proper care.
  • Gold and ceramic fillings: Can last 15 to 20 years or more due to their strength and resistance to wear.

Regular dental check-ups with your dentist in Atherton are essential for monitoring the condition of dental fillings and ensuring their longevity.

What are the different types of teeth filling?

There are several types of teeth fillings, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

  • Amalgam (silver) fillings are durable and long-lasting but less aesthetically pleasing.
  • Composite (tooth-colored) fillings will blend with natural teeth. They are suitable for visible areas, but less durable than amalgam.
  • Gold fillings are highly durable and biocompatible, but expensive and noticeable.
  • Ceramic fillings are aesthetic and durable and often used for large restorations. 
  • Glass ionomer fillings release fluoride. They are beneficial for children’s teeth, but less durable than other materials.
How much does a filling cost?

The cost of a dental filling varies based on the material used and the complexity of the procedure. The cost of a dental filling in Atherton can range from $50 to $250 per tooth for amalgam fillings and composite fillings, and $250 to $4,500 per tooth for gold and ceramic fillings.

Dental insurance often covers a portion of the cost of dental services, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

What is the safest dental filling material?

Composite (tooth-colored) fillings which are offered at Atherton Smiles are considered among the safest dental filling materials. Their main benefits are:

  • They are biocompatible: Made from non-toxic, resin-based materials.
  • They are aesthetically appealing: Blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
  • Their minimal invasiveness: Require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings.

They are free from mercury: Unlike amalgam fillings, composites do not contain mercury.

How much does it cost to get a cavity filled in California?

The cost to get a cavity filled in California can vary widely based on location, dentist, and the filling material used.

  • Amalgam fillings: Typically range from $75 to $200 per tooth.
  • Composite fillings: Usually cost between $150 and $300 per tooth.
  • Gold fillings: Can range from $300 to $4,500 per tooth.
  • Ceramic fillings: Typically cost between $300 and $4,500 per tooth.

Dental insurance may cover a significant portion of the cost of cosmetic dentistry, depending on the plan and the filling material.

Have questions about Atherton Smiles?

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