Ashley Harrison DDS

Ashley Harrison DDS - Cosmetic dentist, General dentist in Chico, CA
1430 East Ave #6, Chico, CA 95926
Closed today
Opens tomorrow at 8:00am
SundayClosed
Monday8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am - 5:00pm
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed

If you have never had a cavity, congratulations! If you have had one, you are not alone. About 78% of us have had at least one cavity by the time we reach age 17, according to a 2000 report by the U.S. Surgeon General. Fortunately there's a time-tested treatment for cavities: the dental filling.

Ashley Harrison DDS - Cosmetic dentist, General dentist in Chico, CA

Fillings do just what the name implies seal a small hole in your tooth, i.e., a cavity, caused by decay. This prevents the decay (a bacteria-induced infection) from spreading further into your tooth and, if untreated, continue on to the sensitive inner pulp (nerve) tissue located in the root canal. Should that happen, you would need root canal treatment.

There are a variety of materials used to fill teeth these days, but the process of filling a tooth is similar regardless. The first step is a clinical exam of the tooth with x-rays, to determine the extent of the decay. Then the decayed area of the tooth is removed, usually with a handheld instrument such as a dental drill. Of course, your tooth will be anesthetized first, so you won't feel any discomfort. If you normally feel nervous about receiving numbing injections, it's possible that taking an anti-anxiety medication or using nitrous oxide can help you feel more relaxed. After removing the decay, the remaining tooth structure is roughened or etched with a mildly acidic solution; then translucent cement is applied to bond the tooth and the filling material together.

Ashley Harrison DDS - Cosmetic dentist, General dentist in Chico, CA

Amalgam The classic silver filling in use for more than a century, dental amalgam is actually an alloy made up of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. The mercury combines with the other metals in the amalgam to make it stable and safe. These fillings are strong and inexpensive, but also quite noticeable. They also require relatively more tooth preparation (drilling) than other types.

Ashley Harrison DDS - Cosmetic dentist, General dentist in Chico, CA

Cast Gold Among the most expensive restorative dental materials, cast gold combines gold with other metals for a very strong, long-lasting filling. It is also highly noticeable, which can be considered a plus or minus.

Ashley Harrison DDS - Cosmetic dentist, General dentist in Chico, CA

Composite A popular choice for those who don't want their fillings to show, composite is a mixture of plastic and glass, which actually bonds to the rest of the tooth. Composites are more expensive than amalgam fillings, and the newer materials can hold up almost as long. Less drilling of the tooth is necessary when placing composite as compared to amalgam.

Ashley Harrison DDS - Cosmetic dentist, General dentist in Chico, CA

Porcelain These high-tech dental ceramics are strong, lifelike, and don't stain as composites can. They are sometimes more expensive than composites because they may require the use of a dental laboratory or specialized computer-generated technology. While considered the most aesthetic filling, they can also, because of their relatively high glass content, be brittle.

Glass Ionomer Made of acrylic and glass powders, these inexpensive, translucent fillings have the advantages of blending in pretty well with natural tooth color and releasing small amounts of fluoride to help prevent decay. They generally don't last as long as other restorative materials.

The numbness caused by your local anesthesia should wear off within a couple of hours. Until then, it's best to avoid drinking hot or cold liquids, and eating on the side of your mouth with the new filling. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal in the first couple of weeks after getting a tooth filled. If it persists beyond that, or you have any actual pain when biting, it could signal that an adjustment to your filling needs to be made. Continue to brush and floss as normal every day, and visit the dental office at least twice per year for your regular checkups and cleanings. And remember, tooth decay is a very preventable disease; with good oral hygiene and professional care, you can make your most recent cavity your last!

The Natural Beauty of Tooth-Colored Fillings The public's demand for aesthetic tooth-colored (metal free) restorations (fillings) together with the dental profession's desire to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible, has led to the development of special adhesive tooth-colored restorations... Read Article

Tooth Decay A Preventable Disease Tooth decay is the number one reason children and adults lose teeth during their lifetime. Yet many people don't realize that it is a preventable infection. This article explores the causes of tooth decay, its prevention, and the relationship to bacteria, sugars, and acids... Read Article

Tooth Decay How To Assess Your Risk Don't wait for cavities to occur and then have them fixed stop them before they start. Modern dentistry is moving towards an approach to managing tooth decay that is evidence-based on years of accumulated, systematic, and valid scientific research. This article discusses what you need to know to assess your risk and change the conditions that lead to decay... Read Article

Reviews

Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 145 reviews

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Cindy Bell
a year ago
Everyone In Dr. Harrison's office is very professional and friendly. The caliber of dentistry and hygiene is top notch. I highly recommend this office to anyone looking for quality dental care


Karen Loerke
a year ago
I am so glad that Dr. Harrison is my dentist. The best dentist ever.


Syl Fowler
a year ago
Update, September 2022: I get my teeth cleaned by Katelyn, who is an unsung hero. While teeth cleaning isn't one of my favorite things to get done, Katelyn has a gentle hand and makes my cleanings something I look forward to. She gives me helpful advice and recommendations in my daily care and maintenance. She is professional, personable. and friendly. She addresses my teeth sensitivity and, that, is a real plus for me! Had to have a crown for a molar. All done in 3 hours right in Dr. Harrison's office. Yes, even the crown was made right in her office. Dr. Harrison and Vanessa explained everything as it was happening which was a real plus for me. The whole process was very smooth and Dr. Harrison was great. I'm glad she's my dentist. Oh and BTW, I'm very pleased with my crown.


Vince Kotchian
a year ago
I would strongly recommend Dr. Harrison and her staff for three reasons: 1. competence. They're quick yet thorough and do skillful work. I've had a crown repaired and a new crown done, and both were done quickly, with very little discomfort. 2. friendliness. They're easygoing, good-natured, and have a good sense of humor. 3. Conscientiousness. Dr. Harrison proactively followed up about the crown fit and was willing to make adjustments months after the initial procedure to ensure the fit was perfect.


Kimberly Higby-Mead
a year ago
Dr. Harrison is the best Dentist I have been to. I am 48 years old and have had a lot of dental issues and dentists over the last 20+ years. My previous dentist was a great surgeon. Dr. Harrison is absolutely a stellar surgeon. Complemented by her drive to educate her patients which is equally important. I wish my last dentist took the time to educate me about detailed cleaning habits and products to use, told me I have a clenching habit and needed a night guard, which should have been clear by the work he had to do. If I had this knowledge I would be in a different place with the health of my teeth. I am grateful to have found Dr. Harrison, value and honor her practice. Her choice of staff reflects her high standards and professionalism. Much gratitude to the Ashley Harrison team! You are awesome!


J G
2 years ago
Absolutely the best dental experience I have had in my life. Great interactions with everyone in the office and Dr. Harrison was amazing throughout the entire visit and procedure.


Melissa May
2 years ago
I LOVE these ladies!!!! Dr. Harrison and her staff are amazing!!! Best dentisal practice EVER!!!!


Jim Marxmiller
2 years ago
First, the office staff and technicians are very nice, friendly and professional. Dr Harrison is very easy to associate with and explains everything she's doing. She wants to make you feel comfortable and understand what's going on. Of all the dentists I've seen, I can't remember anyone more through and detailed with their work. I am so very pleased to have found her.


Gina White
2 years ago
Dr. Harrison is very knowledgeable, friendly and gives practical instruction. I've been seeing her for about 5 years and my experience has been very good. Her staff are also friendly and well-trained. The office is closed on Fridays which I personally think is awesome for workers to have a four-day workweek. I would recommend Dr. Harrison to anyone seeking a new dentist.


Syl Fowler
2 years ago
Had to have a crown for a molar. All done in 3 hours right in Dr. Harrison's office. Yes, even the crown was made right in her office. Dr. Harrison and Vanessa explained everything as it was happening which was a real plus for me. The whole process was very smooth and Dr. Harrison was great. I'm glad she's my dentist. Oh and BTW, I'm very pleased with my crown.


Cathy Inzer
2 years ago
Wonderful dentist and staff! I have a fear of going to the dentist, but Dr. Harrison and her staff make it comfortable and easy. Dr. Harrison has Covid safety protocols in place and is the most knowledgeable dentist I have been to.


Norma Wilcox
2 years ago
I have been treated by Ashley Harrison since she started her practice in Chico, and have received excellent care from her and her staff. I have also recommended her to many of my friends.


Tovey Giezentanner
2 years ago
Dr. Harrison and her staff provide a professional and high quality experience. They're knowledgeable and always do a great job for me. Highly recommend!


Melissa Levy
2 years ago
I always enjoy my visit to Dr. Harrison's office! My time is valued, my needs are listened to and I leave happy.


Susan Best
2 years ago
I suffer from dental anxiety and a friend recommended Dr. Ashley Harrison after my precious dentist retired. Dr. Harrison and her staff have made me feel safe and comfortable and the work has been outstanding. I feel fortunate to have found Dr. Harrison and highly recommend her!


Brandi L
2 years ago
Best dental experience I've ever had. The office staff is extremely friendly. Dr Harrison was very kind, informative and assuring. I specifically appreciated how involved I was in my treatment plan. The whole experience was just exceptional. So happy I found this office! For the first time ever, I actually look forward to future dental appointments.


Kurt Albrecht
2 years ago
Well, another great visit with Dr. Harrison and her staff. I had many questions this time around about my care and others in my family and they took extra time to make sure the questions were all answered the best they could. As always, the dental hygienist was very thorough and extremely gentle at the same time.


Steve Naiman
2 years ago
All precautionary measures for COVID were followed, staff were efficient and friendly. Thanks.


grace dewar
2 years ago
From the welcoming greeting to the holiday wish at my departure, my visit today for a dental hygiene procedure - was conducted in a scrupulously sanitized setting, and filled with thoughtful information, positive assurance, and comfort and ease. A fine staff provided all of this!


Cecilia Edith
2 years ago
What a great team at this dental office in Chico! Friendly, professional, a beautifully decorated place to visit for all your necessary dental procedures, from dental hygiene, restoration, tooth whitening, etc. You will be properly informed of any and all treatment by a patient, cheery and highly educated dentist, Ashley Harrison, DDS.


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Find the best dentist in: California / Butte County / Chico / 95926