Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, affecting people of all ages. Left untreated, they can lead to pain, infections, and even tooth loss. The good news? Cavities are highly treatable — and dental fillings are one of the most effective ways to restore damaged teeth.
If you’re in Garland, TX, and looking for a trusted dentist to help you repair cavities with high-quality dental fillings, Shifa Dental is here for you. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about dental fillings — from causes and symptoms of cavities to types of filling materials and what to expect during your visit.
What Are Cavities?
Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, occur when plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — builds up on your teeth and produces acid that eats away at the enamel. Over time, this can lead to holes or decay in the tooth structure.
Common Signs You Might Have a Cavity:
Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Pain when biting or chewing
Visible holes or pits in your teeth
Brown, black, or white staining on the tooth surface
Persistent toothache
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to visit your local Garland dentist for a checkup.
Why Dental Fillings Are Necessary
Dental fillings restore the integrity and function of a decayed tooth. Once the cavity is cleaned out and the decay removed, a filling seals the tooth and prevents bacteria from re-entering. This helps:
Relieve pain and sensitivity
Restore chewing function
Prevent further decay or infection
Preserve natural tooth structure
At Shifa Dental Garland, we offer modern, durable, and natural-looking fillings tailored to your needs.
Types of Dental Fillings Offered in Garland, TX
We believe in providing patients with choices that suit their health goals, budget, and cosmetic preferences. Here are the most common types of dental fillings:
1. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored)
These are made of a resin material that matches the color of your natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for visible areas.
Pros:
Blends seamlessly with your tooth
Bonds directly to tooth surface
Less drilling required
Best For: Front teeth or small to medium cavities.
2. Amalgam Fillings (Silver)
These are made from a combination of metals and are known for their strength and durability.
Pros:
Long-lasting (10+ years)
Cost-effective
Strong enough for molars
Best For: Back teeth that endure heavy chewing.
3. Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain)
Ceramic or porcelain fillings are stain-resistant and more aesthetically pleasing than metal fillings.
Pros:
Natural appearance
Durable and stain-resistant
Best For: Larger cavities and patients who prioritize aesthetics.
4. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Made from a mix of acrylic and glass, these fillings release fluoride to help protect the tooth from further decay.
Pros:
Fluoride-releasing
Good for children and root surfaces
Best For: Baby teeth or non-chewing surfaces.
The Dental Filling Process at Shifa Dental Garland
If you’re nervous about getting a filling, don’t worry — the process is quick, simple, and pain-free. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment:
Step 1: Diagnosis
We use digital X-rays and thorough examinations to identify cavities and determine their extent.
Step 2: Numbing
We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Removing the Decay
Our dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth using precise tools, ensuring all infection is eliminated.
Step 4: Filling the Tooth
The cavity is filled using the material you’ve selected (composite, amalgam, etc.). We then shape and polish it for a natural look and proper bite alignment.
Step 5: Aftercare Guidance
We’ll give you tips on how to care for your new filling and prevent future cavities.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the type of material used and your oral hygiene habits. On average:
Composite Fillings: 5–7 years
Amalgam Fillings: 10–15 years
Ceramic Fillings: 10–15 years
Glass Ionomer Fillings: ~5 years
Routine checkups at our Garland dental office will help monitor your fillings and ensure they stay intact.
Preventing Future Cavities
Dental fillings fix the problem, but prevention is the real goal. Here are some tips to help keep your teeth cavity-free:
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove food particles between teeth
Limit sugary snacks and drinks
Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months)
Get dental sealants if recommended (especially for children)
At Shifa Dental, we’re not just about fixing issues — we’re here to help you prevent them.
Affordable Dental Fillings in Garland, TX
We understand that cost can be a concern for many patients. That’s why Shifa Dental offers:
Flexible payment options
Insurance-friendly services
In-house membership plans
Financing through CareCredit and other partners
Our goal is to make high-quality dental care accessible and affordable for every Garland family.
Why Choose Shifa Dental for Fillings in Garland?
Here’s why families in Garland trust Shifa Dental:
✅ Experienced and gentle dentists
✅ Advanced digital X-rays and diagnostic tools
✅ Comfortable and modern dental office
✅ Multilingual staff and family-friendly care
✅ Transparent pricing and honest recommendations
From minor cavities to more complex dental restorations, we’ve got you covered.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or suspect a cavity, don’t wait until the pain gets worse. Trust Shifa Dental Garland for dental fillings that are fast, effective, and built to last.
📍 Visit us at: 1918 N Plano Rd, Garland, TX 75042
📞 Call us: (469) 786-0775
🌐 Book online: www.shifadental.net