Dental Fillings in Chicago, IL
Restore Tooth Structure and Prevent Further Decay with Conservative Treatment
When tooth decay or minor damage compromises your enamel, dental fillings offer a durable, aesthetic solution. At Ramy Bahu, DDS, we provide tooth-colored composite fillings designed to match your natural enamel and preserve as much of the healthy tooth structure as possible. Whether you're treating a new cavity or replacing an old filling, our approach is precise, gentle, and customized to your needs.
We serve patients across Streeterville, River North, South Loop, and downtown Chicago, helping them maintain strong, functional, and natural-looking smiles.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth affected by decay, wear, or minor fractures. The process involves removing the damaged area and filling the space with a biocompatible material that restores strength, shape, and function.
At our office, we use high-quality composite resin for most fillings. These materials are:
- Tooth-colored for seamless blending with surrounding enamel
- Bonded directly to the tooth for enhanced durability
- Mercury-free and safe for long-term use
- Ideal for treating small to moderately sized cavities
Our goal is to stop decay in its tracks and reinforce the tooth before more extensive treatments like crowns or root canal therapy become necessary.
When Do You Need a Filling?
Dental fillings are most commonly used to treat cavities, but they’re also effective in addressing other issues. You may need a filling if you have:
- Visible or hidden tooth decay
- Sensitivity to cold or sweets
- Small chips or fractures in the enamel
- Worn down areas caused by grinding or acid erosion
- Dark spots or discoloration on the tooth surface
In many cases, cavities are discovered during routine dental cleanings and exams. Catching decay early allows us to treat it with minimal disruption and preserve more of the natural tooth.
The Dental Filling Process
Getting a filling is a straightforward procedure that can typically be completed in a single visit. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing the Area: We use local anesthesia to ensure complete comfort during the procedure.
- Removing Decay: The affected part of the tooth is gently removed with advanced, minimally invasive instruments.
- Placing the Filling: Composite resin is applied in layers and shaped to match the tooth’s natural anatomy.
- Curing and Polishing: A special light hardens the material, and the filling is polished for a smooth finish.
You’ll be able to eat, speak, and smile normally immediately after the anesthetic wears off.
Why Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings?
While silver amalgam fillings were once the standard, today’s tooth-colored fillings offer several advantages:
- Aesthetics: They blend seamlessly with your natural enamel.
- Bonding Strength: Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, providing additional reinforcement.
- Less Invasive: Requires less removal of healthy tooth structure than metal alternatives.
- Mercury-Free: A safer and more modern option for long-term restoration.
Tooth-colored fillings are also commonly used to upgrade or replace old metal fillings with a more discreet and biocompatible material.
Meet Your Dentist
Dr. Ramy Bahu, D.D.S. brings more than three decades of clinical experience to his Chicago practice. His conservative approach to restorative dentistry emphasizes early detection and minimally invasive care—ensuring each filling is precisely placed, functional, and long-lasting.
Related Services
If your decay is more extensive or affects the inner part of the tooth, we may recommend one of the following:
- Dental Crowns – Used when a filling isn’t sufficient to restore full strength
- Inlays & Onlays – Ideal for larger cavities that don’t require a full crown
- Root Canal Therapy – Necessary when decay reaches the pulp of the tooth
These services are always discussed thoroughly so you can make informed decisions about your care.
FAQs About Dental Fillings
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How long do composite fillings last?
With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can last 7 to 10 years or longer. We monitor your restorations during routine visits and recommend replacements only when necessary.
Do dental fillings hurt?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report little to no discomfort during or after treatment.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with white ones?
Yes. We frequently replace metal fillings with composite resin for a more natural look and improved comfort. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate if your old restorations are candidates for upgrade.
Are fillings covered by insurance?
Most PPO dental insurance plans cover composite fillings on both front and back teeth. Our team will help verify your benefits before treatment begins.
How do I care for a new filling?
Maintain good brushing and flossing habits, avoid chewing hard items (like ice or pens), and keep up with your dental exams every six months. With these steps, your filling can last for many years.
Schedule Your Appointment for Dental Fillings in Chicago
If you suspect you have a cavity or need to replace an older restoration, we’re here to help with conservative, comfortable care. Fillings are a simple way to protect your smile and prevent more serious dental problems down the line.
Call (312) 943-6444 or schedule your appointment online today. We proudly serve patients from Streeterville, River North, South Loop, and the surrounding Chicago neighborhoods.
