Do You Need Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are a tool utilized by Dr. Thomas Kraklow at Kraklow Quality Dentistry to repair cavities before they get too big. Fillings are comprised of plastics, glass, metal, or other materials that work to fill small holes that are caused by tooth decay. Additionally, dental fillings can be utilized to repair fractures and cracks in your teeth.

Common Signs That You'll Need a Dental Filling

Since this versatile dental restoration tool can be used to remedy multiple problems with your teeth, there are many common signs that will indicate that you need to get a dental filling.

First and foremost, the most obvious sign is a toothache. This ache is typically your tooth's oversensitivity to pressure, temperature, or sweets due to damage from a cavity. You may even visibly see dark spots developing on your tooth. These are nasty cavities lurking below the surface of your tooth's enamel.

Another sign that you'll need a tooth filling is that you have a fractured tooth. When there is a visible crack, Dr. Thomas Kraklow can fill that area with a dental filling. This helps to restore the structural integrity of the tooth and prevents further fracturing from occurring.

Tooth crazing and wear are also signs that you'll need to get dental fillings near me. Crazing is a term that describes craze-lines that develop on the tooth enamel. They're typically caused by too much stress being placed on the tooth. Additionally, wear of your teeth as you age can cause their edges to become flat and dark. Dental fillings can help to cover the dark look and restore the surface of your teeth.

A Look at Various Dental Filling Options

There are many different materials that can be utilized to fill your teeth. Each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.

  • Gold - An expensive material that lasts about 10 to 15 years.
  • Silver (amalgams) - Has a grayish hue and a higher risk of tooth cracks due to expansion and contraction, and lasts for about 10 to 15 years.
  • Composite - Only lasts about five years and closely matches the shade of your existing teeth.
  • Porcelain / Ceramic - Lasts 15 or more years, is resistant to staining, and is expensive.
  • Glass Ionomer - Used for fillings below the gumline, is more prone to fracturing, and lasts five years or less.

How Does the Dental Filling Process Work?

Kraklow Quality Dentistry serves residents in the New Berlin region. If it's decided that you need a dental filling, it's a fairly straightforward process that can be done during one appointment. The process will start with numbing of the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic.

Dr. Thomas Kraklow will use a drill or air abrasion instrument to remove the decaying area of your tooth. Next, the entire area will be cleaned so that it's free from bacteria. Then, Dr. Kraklow will insert the filling material and polish it.

Dental Fillings Near Me

Dental fillings are an effective tool for strengthening your damaged teeth. If you think that your smile could benefit from a dental filling or two, call Kraklow Quality Dentistry today!