Dental Fillings

When a cavity forms, the window you have to restore your tooth with a simple filling is often very brief. Tooth decay that goes untreated tends to progress deeper into the tooth structure, potentially requiring more involved restorative procedures down the road. Catching decay early and restoring it with a well-placed filling protects not only the tooth but also the surrounding bite and bone along with it.

At Pine Glen Dental Group in Peoria, IL, Dr. Lori Rice and Dr. Jacey Thelen, D.D.S., bring more than two decades of trusted, family-centered care to every appointment. Dr. Rice joined the practice in 2002 and purchased Pine Glen Dental Group in 2012, and Dr. Thelen, a UMKC graduate and Peoria-area native, joined the team as an associate dentist in 2026. As a fee-for-service practice, Pine Glen focuses entirely on what is best for each individual patient rather than on what an insurance schedule dictates. Patients who come in for comprehensive oral exams benefit from early detection of decay, which means more conservative treatment options and better long-term outcomes.

What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling is a restorative material placed into a prepared tooth after the decayed or damaged portion has been removed. The goal is to restore the tooth’s original shape, function, and integrity so it can continue to function properly within the bite. Fillings are among the most commonly performed restorative procedures in dentistry, and when placed with precision and care, they can last for many years with routine maintenance.

The type of filling material selected depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the extent of the decay, and your aesthetic preferences. At Pine Glen Dental Group, we take the time to review each option with our patients so they can make a completely informed decision.

Composite Fillings

Composite resin fillings, which are also referred to as tooth-colored fillings, are matched to the natural shade of the tooth, making them virtually invisible once placed. They bond directly to the tooth structure, which allows for a more conservative preparation in many cases. Composite fillings are an excellent choice for front teeth and areas that are clearly visible when smiling or speaking.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam has been used in dentistry for well over a century and remains a durable, cost-effective option for back teeth that endure heavier chewing forces. While not tooth-colored, amalgam fillings are recognized for their longevity and strength in high-pressure areas of the mouth.

Both materials serve important roles, and our team will recommend the best option based on your individual situation.

Why Prompt Treatment Matters

Decay does not resolve on its own, and only continues to destroy your teeth. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 90% of adults in the United States have had at least one cavity in a permanent tooth, highlighting just how prevalent tooth decay is across all age groups. When decay is identified early, a filling is typically all that is needed to fully restore the tooth.

Left untreated, decay can reach the inner pulp of the tooth, at which point more extensive treatment becomes necessary. Patients who maintain regular checkups and address cavities promptly often entirely avoid the need for procedures like crowns and caps or more complex restorations.

The Filling Process at Pine Glen Dental Group

The process of placing a filling is simple and is typically completed in a single appointment. After thoroughly numbing the area, Dr. Rice or Dr. Thelen removes the decayed tissue and cleans the tooth. The filling material is then placed in layers, shaped to match the tooth’s natural contours, and hardened or set before the bite is carefully adjusted.

Pine Glen uses digital radiography to get a detailed view of the tooth structure before and during treatment, ensuring that the full extent of decay is identified and addressed. This technology allows for precise diagnostics with significantly less radiation exposure compared to traditional X-rays. Once the filling is complete, most patients can return to normal activity the same day.

When a Filling Is Not Enough

In some situations, the extent of decay or damage is too significant for a standard filling to adequately restore the tooth. When more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is affected, a stronger restoration may be necessary. Inlays and onlays offer a middle-ground solution between a filling and a full crown, providing excellent coverage and durability for teeth with moderate to extensive damage while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.

Our team will always present the most conservative option that still delivers a lasting, healthy result. We never recommend more treatment than is clinically needed.

Choose Pine Glen Dental Group for Dental Fillings in Peoria, IL

Pine Glen Dental Group has been serving Peoria families since 2002, building a reputation grounded in honest, high-quality care. Dr. Lori Rice, who purchased the practice in 2012, and Dr. Jacey Thelen, D.D.S., a UMKC graduate and Peoria-area native who joined as an associate dentist in 2026, share that same commitment to doing right by patients. It shows in everything from a 4.7-star Google rating to a BBB A+ accreditation earned in 2008, and our practice has been recognized as a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite every year from 2018 through 2024.

Whether you are coming in with a suspected cavity or are overdue for a routine exam, Pine Glen Dental Group is here to help. We welcome patients of all ages and work with out-of-network insurance benefits on your behalf so you can focus on your health rather than paperwork. To get started, schedule your appointment with our team today.