Where Families in Green Lake Come to Smile
Natural-Looking Dental Fillings in Green Lake, Seattle
Unfortunately, your teeth don’t care that you have back-to-back Zoom calls this afternoon. When decay sets in, it progresses on its own schedule, not yours. The good news is that catching cavities early means Dr. Cherryl Ellison can fix them quickly with dental fillings that look natural and last for years.
At Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry, the goal is to keep your original teeth strong and healthy rather than just patching problems after they’ve gotten worse. Dr. Ellison provides comprehensive dental care that addresses cavities before they become more serious problems. When a cavity does occur, she uses high-quality composite resin designed to mimic your natural tooth color, restore damaged teeth, and preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Why Dental Fillings Matter for Your Oral Health
Cavities happen when bacteria produce acids that break down tooth enamel. Left untreated, this decay continues through the enamel into the softer dentin layer beneath, eventually extending into the pulp where nerves and blood vessels live. At that point, you’re looking at root canal territory instead of a simple filling.
Early detection makes all the difference. During your routine cleaning and examination, Dr. Ellison checks for soft spots, discoloration, and other signs of decay. Catching cavities when they’re small means less tooth structure removed and a simpler restoration process. Many patients are shocked to learn they have a cavity because there’s no pain yet, but that’s precisely when treatment is most effective.
Seattle’s coffee culture and bustling food scene contribute to the development of cavities. The sugars in your daily Americano and that Pike Place Market pastry feed the bacteria in your mouth. Combined with inconsistent brushing habits during busy work weeks, it’s no wonder cavities affect adults just as frequently as children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90% of adults have had at least one cavity in their permanent teeth. The good news is that modern composite fillings blend flawlessly with your real teeth, so no one knows you had dental work done.
What to Expect During Your Filling Appointment
Dr. Ellison begins by numbing the area around the damaged tooth to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Once you’re numb, she uses precision instruments to remove all decayed portions of the tooth. This step is crucial because any remaining decay will continue growing beneath the filling.
After cleaning out the cavity, Dr. Ellison prepares the space for the filling material. She applies bonding agents that help the composite resin adhere properly to your tooth structure. Then she places the tooth-colored composite in layers, using a special curing light to harden each layer. This layering technique creates a strong, durable restoration that can withstand regular chewing forces.
The final step involves shaping and polishing the filling to match your bite. Dr. Ellison checks that your teeth come together properly and that the filling doesn’t interfere with your natural chewing pattern. She also smooths and polishes the surface so it feels just like the rest of your tooth. Most patients leave the office within an hour, depending on how many fillings they need.
The result? A smooth, functional restoration that feels like nothing ever happened.
Composite Resin vs. Other Filling Materials
Composite resin fillings have become the go-to material for most dental restorations. These tooth-colored materials fuse directly to your tooth structure, which actually strengthens the remaining tooth. They also require less removal of healthy tooth material compared to older metal fillings. The composite can be shaded to match your natural tooth color, making the restoration virtually invisible.
Some back teeth with larger cavities may need different materials. In these cases, Dr. Ellison might recommend other options based on the location and degree of the decay. She’ll discuss the best choice for your specific situation during your appointment.
The practice uses high-quality materials designed to last for years with proper care. Your fillings should hold up well under normal eating and drinking habits. Regular checkups allow Dr. Ellison to monitor your fillings and catch any wear before it becomes a problem.
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Cherryl Ellison – Dental Fillings In Green Lake
With over six years of experience and a reputation for clarity and kindness, Dr. Cherryl Ellison delivers dental fillings in Green Lake that feel calm, transparent, and comfortable. She’s known for explaining procedures in plain terms, using modern techniques, and treating each patient like a person—not a chart. From first-time patients to longtime regulars, she makes dental visits feel approachable and personalized.
Signs You Might Need a Dental Filling
Several signs indicate you might need a filling. Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods often means decay has progressed into the dentin layer. An obvious hole or dark spot on your tooth surface suggests advanced decay. Some patients notice rough or jagged edges where enamel has broken away.
Pain when biting down can mean decay has weakened the tooth structure. Food getting stuck in the same spot repeatedly might indicate a cavity forming between teeth. These situations warrant a dental exam so Dr. Ellison can assess the damage and recommend treatment.
Unfortunately, not all cavities cause symptoms in their early stages. This is why regular dental checkups every six months are so important. Dr. Ellison can spot decay before it progresses to the point of causing pain or requiring more extensive treatment, such as a dental crown or a root canal.
How to Care for Your Dental Fillings
Your fillings will last longer with good oral hygiene habits. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once each day. This removes food particles and bacteria before they can cause new decay around your fillings. Pay special attention to the margins where the filling meets your natural tooth, as these areas are vulnerable to new cavities.
Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other tough foods that can crack or chip your fillings. If you grind your teeth at night, ask Dr. Ellison about a night guard to protect both your fillings and your natural teeth from excessive wear. These simple steps help your restorations stay intact for many years.
Schedule regular dental cleanings and exams so Dr. Ellison can monitor your fillings. She checks for any signs of wear, cracking, or decay developing around the edges. Catching problems early means simpler repairs and better long-term outcomes for your oral health.
Dental Insurance and Payment Options
Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry accepts most major dental insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Premera Blue Cross, Cigna, Principal, and Humana. Dental fillings are typically covered as basic preventive care under most plans, though coverage percentages vary. The team will verify your specific benefits before treatment. For patients without dental insurance, the practice offers an affordable membership plan for $36 per month. This plan includes preventive care and discounts on restorative treatments like fillings. Cherry Financing is also available, providing 0% interest payment plans for 12 months on qualifying treatments. We also handle all insurance paperwork and help you understand your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins. We can provide detailed estimates based on your specific insurance coverage, so you know exactly what to expect.
Schedule Your Dental Filling Appointment in Green Lake
Don’t wait for tooth pain to force your hand. Early treatment for cavities means simpler, more comfortable procedures and better long-term outcomes. Dr. Ellison provides gentle, thorough care in a modern office designed with your comfort in mind. The practice serves patients throughout Green Lake, Wallingford, Phinney Ridge, Fremont, Roosevelt, and Wedgwood.
Contact Green Lake Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule your dental exam. Whether you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or simply due for your routine checkup, Dr. Ellison will assess your oral health and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.
Book Your Dental Filling Appointment Today
Don’t wait for a small issue to become a big problem. Whether you’re due for a checkup or already know something needs attention, we’re here to help—with no pressure and no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
How do I know if I need a filling?
Do fillings hurt?
How long do composite fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, composite fillings can last 7–10 years or longer. Dr. Ellison will monitor your restorations at every visit.