Dental fillings in Salem, OR, match your natural smile and restore your teeth.

Dental Fillings in Salem, OR

Cavities and minor tooth damage don't have to lead to bigger dental problems. At Riverfront Dental, Dr. Scott Howe uses dental fillings in Salem, OR, to restore teeth affected by decay, chips, and small fractures. A filling repairs the damaged area, protects your tooth from further decay, and allows you to chew comfortably again.

Our goal is always to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible. If a tooth filling is the best solution, we'll remove the damaged portion of the tooth and place a durable restoration that blends naturally with your smile. Dr. Howe takes the time to explain your treatment and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

When Does a Tooth Need a Filling?

A dental filling is one of the most common restorative treatments because it can address several types of minor tooth damage before they become more serious.

You may benefit from a filling if you have:

A cavity caused by tooth decay
A chipped or worn tooth
Small cracks in a tooth
An old filling that has broken down or needs replacement

Riverfront Dental offers both tooth-colored composite fillings and amalgam (silver) fillings. Dr. Howe will recommend the material that best fits your oral health needs, the location of the tooth, and your personal preferences.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Treating a cavity early with a filling helps keep your smile healthy while preventing more extensive treatment in the future.

Stop Decay Before It Spreads

A filling removes the decayed portion of your tooth and seals the area, which prevents bacteria from causing further damage. Early treatment helps you avoid larger restorations like a crown or root canal.

Restore Your Tooth's Natural Function

A dental cavity or chipped tooth can make chewing uncomfortable or weaken your bite. A dental filling rebuilds the damaged area so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Preserve More of Your Natural Tooth

Because fillings treat smaller areas of damage, they allow Dr. Howe to save more healthy tooth structure. Preserving your natural teeth whenever possible supports better long-term oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Both composite and amalgam fillings are effective ways to restore teeth affected by cavities or minor damage, but each material offers different advantages. At Riverfront Dental, Dr. Scott Howe provides both options and recommends the material that best fits your oral health needs.

Choosing the Right Filling Material for Your Smile

Composite Fillings Are Seamless and Preserve Natural Teeth

Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin that closely matches your natural enamel. Because they blend seamlessly with your smile, they're a popular choice for front teeth and other visible areas. Composite fillings also bond directly to the tooth, helping preserve more natural tooth structure.

Amalgam Fillings Are Durable and Ideal for Back Teeth

Amalgam fillings are made from a durable metal alloy and have been used successfully in dentistry for many years. Their strength makes them a reliable option for back teeth that experience significant chewing pressure.

Ready to Get Started? Give Us a Call!

During your appointment, Dr. Howe will discuss factors such as the tooth's location, the size of the cavity, your cosmetic preferences, and your overall oral health before recommending the most appropriate filling material. His goal is to provide a restoration that is both durable and well-suited to your individual smile.

Call us today to book your consultation.

What to Expect During a Dental Filling

Getting a dental filling is a straightforward procedure that typically takes less than an hour. At Riverfront Dental, Dr. Scott Howe and our team make your comfort our priority, and we explain each step of the process so you know exactly what to expect.

Gentle Numbing for Your Comfort

Before treatment begins, we'll numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. This helps ensure you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. If you have any concerns about dental treatment, please let us know. We'll do everything we can to help you feel at ease.

Removing the Decayed or Damaged Tooth Structure

Once the tooth is numb, Dr. Howe carefully removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. This conservative approach helps maintain the strength of your natural tooth.

Cleaning and Preparing the Tooth

After your dentist removes the decay, he thoroughly cleans the tooth to eliminate bacteria and debris. Proper preparation helps create a strong, long-lasting bond between the filling material and your natural tooth.

Placing and Shaping the Filling

Dr. Howe places the filling material and carefully shapes it to match the natural contours of your tooth. Composite fillings are color-matched to blend seamlessly with your smile, while amalgam fillings provide a durable option for areas that experience heavy chewing forces.

Checking Your Bite and Polishing the Restoration

Before your appointment is complete, Dr. Howe checks your bite to make sure the filling feels comfortable when you chew. We make any necessary adjustments, and we polish the filling for a smooth, natural finish. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after their appointment.

Our Team

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Dr. Scott Howe

Dentist and Practice Owner

Dr. Scott Howe's connection to Riverfront Dental began long before he became the practice owner. As a patient growing up, he experienced firsthand the welcoming environment created by Dr. Tom Dugan. While in high school, he shadowed Dr. Dugan and discovered that dentistry combined two of his favorite interests: science and working with his hands. Seeing the positive impact a dentist could have on people's lives inspired him to pursue the profession, and he has never looked back.

Dr. Howe earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Willamette University in ...

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Dental Fillings Smile Gallery

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After

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Schedule Your Dental Filling in Salem, OR

Have a toothache, sensitivity, or think you may have a cavity? Please don't wait for the problem to worsen! Prompt treatment with a dental filling can stop decay, relieve discomfort, and help protect your natural tooth.

Contact Riverfront Dental today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Scott Howe and learn how dental fillings can keep your smile healthy for years to come.

Dental Fillings Technology

Intraoral Cameras

Intraoral cameras allow Dr. Howe to capture detailed images inside your mouth and show you exactly what we see. This technology helps you better understand your oral health and any recommended treatments.

SEE OUR TECHNOLOGY

Testimonial

"Everyone on staff was kind and knowledgeable."

I fell and broke my front tooth early one morning. Riverfront Dental was able to see me the same day. My tooth was fixed and I was back to work so quickly! Everyone on staff was kind and knowledgeable. The building has a lovely view. Fantastic place to go for dental work!

-Marie B.

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