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What Are Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. They restore the natural structure of the tooth, prevent further damage, and help maintain normal chewing and function.

Gentle Dental Concord

410 South Main St.
Concord, NH 03301

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday CLOSED
More Information

Parking lot on-site.

We are now Welcoming All Gentle Dental Concord Hospital Patients

Gentle Dental Concord Hospital, 246 Pleasant St, Concord, NH 03301 will be merging with Gentle Dental Concord, 410 South Main Street, Concord, NH 03301. The Concord Hospital location will be closed.  

Gentle Dental Concord

410 South Main St.
Concord, NH 03301

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday CLOSED
More Information

Parking lot on-site.

We are now Welcoming All Gentle Dental Concord Hospital Patients

Gentle Dental Concord Hospital, 246 Pleasant St, Concord, NH 03301 will be merging with Gentle Dental Concord, 410 South Main Street, Concord, NH 03301. The Concord Hospital location will be closed.  

Gentle Dental Concord Reviews

  • JD

    Jim Dunham

    South Main St. Concord, NH

    Today's appointment was with Dr. Cash, preparing a tooth for a crown. Her dental office candor and mannerisms were top notch. I felt very comfortable and relaxed, and although the procedure was longer than I had originally expected, the time went by quick enough. I would high recommend her to anyone needing a dental procedure.

  • NG

    Nancy Gramolini

    South Main St. Concord, NH

    Dr M is the best . Been going to this office just over 5 years . Staff is great also

  • TM

    Terri Morgan

    South Main St. Concord, NH

    I am one with high anxiety going to dentist but from the front desk to the chair has been a great experience. Jesse at front desk is fantastic and Dr Cash and the assistants are absolutely wonderful. They are patient, very kind and answered all my concerns with honesty. I am having oral surgery in August (all my teeth pulled and temporary teeth placed) and I am confident it will be a positive experience and outcome. I am looking forward to the results I have wanted for years.  I know I am in very capable hands with much less anxiety. I have never had faith in any dental practices until now. Thank you Gentle Dental of Concord, NH.

Types of Dental Fillings Available

Direct Fillings

Direct fillings are placed in a single visit. They are ideal for small to moderate cavities. Materials include composite resin and amalgam. Composite fillings are popular because they match your natural tooth color.

Indirect Fillings

Indirect fillings include inlays and onlays, which are used for larger cavities or damaged areas where a direct filling is insufficient. These are custom-made in a laboratory for a precise and durable fit.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

  • Examination and X-rays to assess the cavity
  • Removal of decayed tooth material
  • Cleaning and preparing the area
  • Placement of the filling material
  • Shaping and polishing for a natural look and comfortable bite

Local Anesthesia and Comfort Measures

A local anesthetic is used to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures a comfortable and stress-free experience throughout the procedure.

Benefits and Risks of Dental Fillings

Advantages of Dental Fillings

  • Stops decay from spreading
  • Restores natural tooth function
  • Strengthens weakened teeth
  • Improves appearance with tooth colored options
  • Helps prevent future dental issues

Potential Risks and Complications

Though uncommon, sensitivity, mild soreness, or allergic reactions to materials can occur. Our team monitors your comfort and uses only trusted materials.

Safety of Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are durable and widely used. They are considered safe for most patients. If you prefer tooth colored options, we offer a full range of composite choices.

Recovery and Post-Treatment Care

What to Expect After Getting a Filling

You may experience mild sensitivity to temperature for a few days. This typically resolves on its own. You can return to normal activities immediately.

Dietary Recommendations After a Filling

  • Avoid very hot or cold foods for a few hours
  • Chew on the opposite side if you are numb
  • Resume normal eating once numbness wears off

How to Prevent Future Cavities

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
  • Schedule routine cleanings every six months
  • Reduce sugary snacks and beverages
  • Consider fluoride treatments or sealants for added protection

Signs You Need to Visit the Dentist Again

  • Persistent sensitivity lasting more than a week
  • Pain when biting
  • Cracks or chips in the filling
  • Food packing in the area

How Much Do Dental Fillings Cost in Concord, NH

The cost of a dental filling can vary based on several important factors. At Gentle Dental Concord, we provide transparent pricing and review all options with you before treatment begins.

Key Factors That Affect the Cost of a Dental Filling

1. Size of the Cavity

Larger cavities require more material and more time to restore, which increases the overall cost. Small or early stage cavities are usually faster and less expensive to treat.

2. Location of the Tooth

Back teeth often require more complex shaping and stronger materials because they handle heavier chewing pressure. This can lead to a slightly higher cost compared to fillings placed on front teeth.

3. Type of Filling Material

Different materials come with different pricing.

  • Composite resin is more aesthetic and blends with natural teeth, so it typically costs more.
  • Amalgam is durable and more affordable but is not tooth colored.
  • Inlays or onlays are custom made restorations for larger areas and are more expensive due to lab fabrication.

4. Complexity of the Restoration

If the cavity is deep, difficult to access, or close to the nerve, the procedure may require more precision and time. This can impact cost compared to a simple surface level filling.

5. Number of Surfaces Involved

A filling that covers multiple tooth surfaces, for example the top and one side, requires more shaping and material. Multi surface fillings generally cost more than single surface fillings.

6. Whether Anesthesia or Additional Comfort Measures Are Needed

Most fillings require local anesthesia, which is included in the cost. If additional comfort measures or sedation options are needed, this may influence the final amount.

7. Replacement vs. New Filling

Replacing an old filling sometimes requires additional steps, such as removing existing material or addressing minor cracks in the tooth. This can make replacement fillings slightly more expensive than new ones.

Insurance and Financing Options

  • We accept most major dental insurance plans
  • Financing available through CareCredit
  • Transparent pricing with no surprises

Same Day Appointments for Dental Emergencies

Tooth pain and cavity discomfort can appear suddenly. Gentle Dental in Concord offers same day or next day appointments whenever possible to address urgent dental needs quickly.

Dental Services in Concord

At Gentle Dental Concord, we offer a comprehensive range of dental services to meet all of your oral health needs. Whether you need routine check-ups, cosmetic enhancements, or restorative treatments, our team is here to provide expert care in a comfortable environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of dental filling is best?

Composite resin is best for most patients because it is tooth colored, strong, and blends naturally. Larger cavities may benefit from inlays or onlays.

Are fillings painful to get?

No. The tooth is numbed, so you should not feel pain. Mild sensitivity afterward is normal and temporary.

How long do tooth fillings usually last?

Composite fillings last about 7 to 10 years. Amalgam fillings can last 10 to 15 years or more with good care.

Which is the safest tooth filling?

Tooth colored composite fillings are very safe and metal free. Amalgam is also considered safe but less aesthetic.

How long after a filling can I drink?

You can drink water right away. Avoid hot drinks until numbness wears off.

What is not allowed after a tooth filling?

Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods, very hot or cold drinks if sensitive, and chewing while numb.

Book an Appointment

First Time at Any Gentle Dental?
Preferred Appointment Time(s)

If your request is a dental emergency, or you would like to call and schedule your dental appointment, contact information for our offices can be found here: Gentle Dental Locations. New patient offer not valid for emergency appointments.