Ocala, FL
Dental Fillings
Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Dental Fillings
A cavity doesn't have to mean a mouth full of metal. At The Tooth Shop of Ocala, we specialize in tooth-colored composite fillings that repair decay while keeping your smile looking natural. Located on SE 24th Road in the heart of Ocala, our practice has been helping Marion County residents maintain healthy teeth for years.
Whether you're dealing with a new cavity or looking to replace old amalgam fillings, Dr. Syska and Dr. Tamburello provide personalized care that puts your comfort first. We believe that catching problems early saves you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort down the road.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair teeth damaged by decay (cavities), minor fractures, or wear. During the procedure, your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills the space with a durable material that restores the tooth's shape and function.
At The Tooth Shop of Ocala, we primarily use composite resin fillings—a tooth-colored material that bonds directly to your natural tooth structure. This modern approach offers both aesthetic and structural advantages over traditional metal fillings.
Types of Dental Fillings We Offer
| Filling Type | Material | Best For | Appearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite Resin | Tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture | Front and back teeth, visible areas | Matches natural tooth color |
| Glass Ionomer | Acrylic and glass compound | Below the gum line, children's teeth | Translucent, releases fluoride |
| Ceramic/Porcelain | Dental-grade porcelain | Larger restorations, high-visibility areas | Highly aesthetic, stain-resistant |
Why We Recommend Composite Fillings
Composite resin has become the gold standard for dental fillings in Ocala and across the country. Here's why our patients prefer them:
Aesthetic appeal – Blends seamlessly with your natural teeth
Bonding strength – Creates a tight seal that supports the remaining tooth structure
Minimal drilling – Requires less tooth removal than amalgam fillings
Mercury-free – No concerns about metal content
Versatile – Works for both small cavities and minor chips
Signs You May Need a Filling
Not sure if that twinge in your tooth is cause for concern? Here are common indicators that it's time to visit our Ocala dental office:
Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
Visible dark spots or holes on the tooth surface
Sharp pain when biting down or chewing
Food consistently getting stuck in the same area
Rough or jagged edges you can feel with your tongue
An old filling that feels loose or has visible cracks
Important: Early-stage cavities often show no symptoms at all. This is why we emphasize regular dental exams—detecting decay early means smaller fillings and less invasive treatment.
The Filling Process at The Tooth Shop of Ocala
Getting a dental filling is one of the most common procedures in dentistry, and our team makes it as comfortable as possible.
Step 1: Examination and Diagnosis
We'll take digital X-rays to assess the extent of decay and determine the best treatment approach. You'll see exactly what we see, and we'll explain your options clearly.
Step 2: Numbing the Area
Using local anesthesia, we'll ensure the tooth and surrounding area are completely numb before beginning treatment. You shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure.
Step 3: Removing Decay
Dr. Syska or Dr. Tamburello will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth using precision dental instruments, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Step 4: Placing the Filling
The composite resin is applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a special curing light. This creates a strong, durable bond with your natural tooth.
Step 5: Shaping and Polishing
We'll shape the filling to match your natural bite and polish it for a smooth, comfortable finish. The entire process typically takes 30-60 minutes per tooth.
Schedule Your Dental Filling
in Ocala Today
Don't let a small cavity become a big problem.
The sooner we treat decay, the more of your natural tooth we can preserve.
Call us today: (352) 732-2458
Dental Filling FAQs
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Composite resin fillings typically last 7-15 years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Several factors influence longevity, including the size of the filling, its location in your mouth, your diet, and whether you grind your teeth. We use high-quality materials and precise techniques to maximize durability. During your regular visits, we'll monitor your fillings and let you know if any need attention.
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Most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the filling procedure. We use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding tissue completely before we begin. You may feel some pressure, but pain is rare. After the numbness wears off, some sensitivity is normal—especially to hot and cold—but this typically fades within a few days. If you're anxious about dental procedures, let us know, and we can discuss options to help you relax.
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The cost of a dental filling depends on several factors: the size and location of the cavity, the material used, and your insurance coverage. Composite fillings generally range from $150 to $400 per tooth without insurance. Most PPO dental plans cover a significant portion of filling costs. We'll provide a clear estimate after your examination and verify your insurance benefits before treatment. Ask about our Sunbit and CareCredit financing if you need a payment plan.
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With composite fillings, you can eat as soon as the numbness wears off—usually 1-3 hours after your appointment. We recommend waiting until you have full feeling in your lips and tongue to avoid accidentally biting yourself. For the first 24 hours, try to avoid extremely hot or cold foods if you notice sensitivity, and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. After that, you should be able to eat normally.
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Common signs include tooth sensitivity, visible holes or dark spots on your teeth, pain when biting, and food frequently getting stuck in the same spot. However, early cavities often have no symptoms, which is why regular dental exams are so important. During your checkup at The Tooth Shop of Ocala, we use visual examination and digital X-rays to detect decay in its earliest stages—when treatment is simplest and most affordable. If it's been more than six months since your last exam, now is a good time to schedule.