Dental fillings in Waukesha

Enhance Your Overall Oral Health With Dental Fillings From Kraklow Quality Dentistry

Most people will require at least one dental filling at some point in their life. Teeth can be damaged in many ways other than poor oral hygiene. For example, did you know that your teeth become more brittle with age? This makes it easier for cavities to form as you get older. When you have cavities, dental fillings may prevent additional damage to your teeth.

What Are Dental Fillings?

If you're looking for "dental fillings near me," you may wonder what the process is like. A dental filling is used to fill cavities. Different processes go into making different types of fillings, and they can be made of several different materials, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Common materials used for fillings include:

• Amalgam - Amalgam is an alloy metal that has been in use in fillings for over 150 years. This is a blend of silver and other metals, usually mercury, zinc or copper, but there is also mercury-free amalgam. These are considered among the safest and longest-lasting fillings available, but they can also expand, causing further damage to the teeth.

  According to the American Dental Association (ADA), scientists have found no direct link between the mercury in amalgam fillings and any health problems. However, a small number of people (less than 1%) may suffer allergic reactions, mostly from the restoration process.

• Cast gold - Cast gold fillings are mixed with other metals. These are super-strong fillings that are highly resistant to corroding. The ADA says cast gold fillings can last up to 20 years, but since they are made of a precious metal, they are also very expensive.

• Tooth-colored composite - Composite, also known as white filling, is a mixture of plastic and glass particles approximately the size of a grain of sand. Composite fillings are usually used for front teeth or parts of teeth that are most visible when you smile. Composite fillings are easy to shape, trim and polish so that they blend in with your teeth. This makes them highly desirable among patients. They typically cost more than amalgam but less than gold fillings.

  There are two types of composite fillings: direct or indirect. The difference lies in the process used to create them. Indirect fillings require impressions to be made and sent to a lab, where the fillings are then made. However, direct fillings can be made right at our office, so they will only take a single visit instead of the two visits indirect fillings require. Composite fillings typically last about five years.

• Glass ionomer - Glass ionomer is a material made of fluoroaluminosilicate and acrylics. Although it's typically used in inlays, it can also be used in dental fillings due to its strength and resistance to corrosion. The main reason glass ionomer is used in fillings is because it releases fluoride, which will help protect your teeth against further damage. These fillings typically last five years, but they can last longer with proper care.

How Can I Start With Dental Fillings Near Me?

If you're looking for "dental fillings near me" and you live in the Waukesha area, Dr. Tom Kraklow can provide dental fillings to improve your smile. He offers some of the best dental services in the area. Contact us at Kraklow Quality Dentistry for more information or to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, call our office at 414-427-8565 or email us with your questions at info@kraklowqualitydentistry.com.