You may need a dental filling if you experience any of the following:

• Sharp or lingering tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Visible holes or dark spots in your tooth
• Pain or discomfort while chewing
• A chipped, cracked, or rough-feeling tooth surface

Catching these signs early can help prevent more serious problems. If you’re noticing changes in your teeth, reach out to our Thornton dental team for an evaluation.

Getting a cavity filled at Hearthside Dentistry is a smooth, comfortable experience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Examination and digital X-rays to detect and diagnose decay
• Gentle numbing of the area to ensure you’re completely comfortable
• Removal of the decayed portion of the tooth
• Layered application of composite resin, matched to the shade of your tooth
• Curing with a special light to harden the material
• Shaping and polishing the filling for a natural, functional finish

Our goal is to preserve your healthy tooth structure while restoring the strength and beauty of your smile.

Not at all. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the filling process. We use local anesthetic to numb the treatment area and take our time to ensure your experience is stress-free. Dr. Haremza and our team are always focused on making you feel heard, relaxed, and in control of your care.

After your appointment, you can resume normal activities right away. Some patients may feel mild sensitivity to pressure or temperature for a day or two, which typically resolves on its own. We recommend waiting to eat on the filled side of your mouth until the numbing wears off completely to avoid accidental injury.

With proper care, composite dental fillings can last 7 to 10 years or more. At your routine dental visits, we’ll keep an eye on your restorations to make sure they remain in good condition. Daily brushing, flossing, and avoiding very hard foods can help your filling last even longer.

Your filling might need replacement if you notice:

• A rough or loose sensation when you run your tongue over it
• New sensitivity in the filled tooth
• Cracks, chips, or visible wear in the material
• Food frequently getting stuck around the filling

If any of these occur, contact our Thornton office so we can evaluate and address the issue promptly.

The cost of a tooth filling depends on the size and location of the cavity, as well as your insurance coverage. At Hearthside Dentistry, we offer transparent pricing and will walk you through all cost details before we begin treatment. We also work with most insurance plans and offer affordable options to fit your budget.

When it comes to dental cavity fillings, we believe the experience matters just as much as the result. Patients choose Hearthside Dentistry because we offer:

• Tooth-colored composite materials for natural aesthetics
• A warm, home-like office environment designed for your comfort
• A patient-first philosophy that puts your needs and goals first
• Experienced, compassionate care from Dr. Braxton Haremza and our trusted team
• A reputation for honesty, kindness, and lasting relationships with families throughout Thornton