Living with a damaged or decayed tooth can be uncomfortable and painful. At Kevin Spees Dentistry, your comfort and health are our top priority. Because of this, Dr. Spees and his team are proud to provide dental fillings for those with decayed, cracked, broken, or worn teeth!
What is a dental filling?
Dental fillings are made of tooth-colored resin that is placed on a damaged tooth to restore its natural shape and function. This resin is typically made of a combination of finely-ground acrylic and quartz-like particles. The material can be tinted to match the color of your surrounding teeth.
These filings are used for a variety of treatments. For those with tooth decay, this treatment can be used to fill the gap left after the decayed portion of the tooth is cleared away. Also, it can be used to fill in cracks and restore broken parts of a tooth. These types of fillings are also often used in cosmetic tooth bonding.
What are the benefits of a dental filling?
Dental fillings restore the appearance and function of a damaged tooth. The material can be shaped and molded as it is applied to the tooth to provide a natural final look. In addition, fillings offer a protective layer over the tooth's surface, which can effectively seal off bacteria. This can help prevent further infection and decay. Once the decay is removed and the filling applied, your teeth will look and feel like new again.
What is the difference between inlays and onlays?
Inlays and Onlays are often referred to as partial crowns. These are usually made from porcelain or composite resin in an off-site laboratory. Once the inlay or onlay is ready, it is cemented to the tooth. This treatment is usually reserved for extensive damage – such as if more than a third of a tooth's surface is damaged.
Fillings are made in our office and do not take as long to apply. They are ideal for smaller injuries that do not need extensive work. Fillings are a natural-looking, cost-effective option for those with surface-level damage.
What is the procedure for a filling?
After an initial consultation with Dr. Spees, a local anesthetic will be applied to the affected area. Dr. Spees and his skilled team will remove any damaged or decayed areas of the tooth before placing the filling. The material will be shaped to match your natural tooth. As a final step, the resin will be hardened and your dentist will check your bite to ensure the alignment is comfortable.
With proper care, fillings can last between 5 and 12 years.
