Protect your teeth and preserve your smile with highly aesthetic, strong, and conservative dental fillings
When dentists like Aesthetic Dental Creations Dr. Balaji Srinivasan prioritize “relationships,” we can often help patients avoid another “r” word: restorative dentistry! Dental restorations should not be put in a bad light. In fact, these may be the only way to preserve a badly broken, infected, or otherwise significantly damaged tooth. With that being said, our team in Jackson, New Jersey, knows quite intimately how easily these treatments can be prevented. To avoid the cavities or decay that leads to the need for dental fillings, inlays, onlays, crowns, or even tooth replacement, all that may be necessary is to keep standard check-ups once every six months for patients who do not have risk factors for problems such as advanced gum disease and oral cancers.
Proactive care meets advanced dentistry
We try to control everything possible in partnership with our patients and always with their best interests at heart as members of our extended dental family. Sometimes, though, we know that life can get in the way. It can throw us real curveballs that endanger the health of our teeth; for instance, accidents on the field, rink, or court can lead to dental or oral injuries. Likewise, there may be situations or changes to your health status that present new risks to your oral health. Regardless of the nature of the condition that may lead to your need for restorative care, patients from throughout Lakewood, Toms River, Manchester, and greater Ocean and Monmouth counties have peace of mind that their treatment is in competent hands.
Fillings are often one of the most common dental services that come to mind when people think of dentistry. It is one of the more conservative treatments when your tooth has sustained damage that cannot be addressed with professional services or hygiene products and modifications designed to strengthen enamel and remineralize the teeth.
While many different dental materials may be prepared, shaped, and placed to “fill in” or repair cavities or holes caused by decay in the tooth. Many patients appreciate highly aesthetic tooth-colored fillings made from metal-free materials such as composite resin. The composite may be brilliantly and seamlessly color-matched to blend in with the surrounding and neighboring teeth. Conservative techniques also minimize the extent of alteration to the natural tooth required during the placement of the filling. We generally want to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. This structure aids in retaining the long-term strength and health of the treated tooth and supports the most natural aesthetics and feel in the mouth.
We encourage you to contact us before problems that may be signs of decay or other conditions requiring treatment arise. We are also happy to discuss professional preventive services, such as dental sealants placed on decay-prone back teeth. Call Aesthetic Dental Creations today, without delay, at (732) 451-3570.
Frequently asked questions about dental fillings
What is a dental filling, and why might I need one?
A dental filling is a simple, conservative restoration that repairs a tooth damaged by decay or minor damage. After removing the damaged portion, your Jackson dentist “fills” the area with a tooth-colored material to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function. Fillings prevent further damage, protect your teeth, and preserve your natural smile.
To summarize, you need a dental filling in Jackson, NJ, to correct the following issues.
- Minor cavities or tooth decay
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Enamel erosion
- Stained teeth
What types of dental fillings are available?
Dental fillings can be created from several materials, including gold and amalgam. Aesthetic Dental Creations prefers composite (tooth-colored) fillings. These fillings are colored like your teeth to ensure a seamless blend with your natural tooth. Unlike metal fillings that may show through your smile when laughing or speaking, composite fillings are virtually indistinguishable.
Is placing dental fillings painful?
No—getting a filling is generally quick and painless. Dr. Balaji Srinivasan uses a local anesthetic to numb the area so you won’t feel discomfort during the procedure. You might experience mild sensitivity for a day or two afterward, but this typically fades quickly. Our team in Jackson, NJ, takes every step to ensure your experience is comfortable and stress-free.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material and your oral hygiene. On average, composite fillings last 5–10 years, but metal fillings last longer. While dental fillings are durable, proper oral hygiene ensures your fillings stay healthy and strong.
Caring for a tooth with a filling is just like caring for your natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to prevent decay between teeth
- Avoid biting hard objects (like pens or ice)
- Wear a customized nightguard if you grind your teeth at night
- Visit your Jackson dentist regularly for cleanings and exams
Can old or damaged fillings be replaced?
Yes! Fillings can wear down, crack, or become loose over time. If a filling is failing or you’re experiencing sensitivity, visit Dr. Srinivasan for an evaluation. We can safely replace your filling with a new, strong one. However, the dentist will recommend a crown or an onlay if your tooth is severely weakened.
Is a dental filling safe?
The safety of your filling is a genuine concern, given the presence of mercury in amalgam (silver-colored) fillings. Aesthetic Dental Creations uses composite fillings created from safe, biocompatible materials. They don’t contain any toxic substances. Plus, they are created from non-metal, biocompatible materials to ensure no adverse reactions, even if you have metal allergies.
Do you need a dental filling in Jackson, New Jersey?
If you suspect a cavity or minor tooth damage, Aesthetic Dental Creations is here to help. Call us at (732) 451-3570 to schedule your appointment and keep your smile strong and beautiful with top-tier restorations. We offer composite fillings renowned for their aesthetics, durability, and biocompatibility.
Dr. Balaji Srinivasan is inspired by the passion and purpose he discovers in dentistry and strives to provide his clients with exceptional services. He graduated from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. He then attended Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska, and a residency program in Advanced General Dentistry at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
In 1997, he established Madison Avenue Dental Associates, where he worked for ten years. He then established Aesthetic Dental Creations in Jackson, New Jersey, in 2008 and has not looked back since.
Dr. Srinivasan is an alumnus of the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Training. He has received specialized training in adhesive dentistry and smile design. Dr. Srinivasan is also very effective at treating migraine/headaches because of his expertise in neuromuscular(physiologic) dentistry. He has lectured to dentists at Monmouth Medical Center on various topics. You can count on him to make your dental visit as pleasant as possible!
