Fillings

Dental fillings treat cavities, or areas of decay, in teeth. However, they are primarily used on small-to-medium-sized cavities so that they do not become more significant problems in the future. At Only Kids Dentistry, our dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic and drill out the decayed portion of the tooth. Then, they will fill the area with a composite resin material to restore the tooth's full function. Composite resin is a popular material for dental fillings because it is white and blends in with the natural smile. It is also durable enough to withstand normal chewing and biting forces. Additionally, the material helps to strengthen the tooth by bonding to the enamel layer and preventing the entry of bacteria from other areas of the mouth.

Types of Dental Fillings

The dentist can use a variety of materials to fill a tooth. Some of the most common are:

  • Composite fillings
  • Porcelain fillings
  • Glass ionomer fillings
  • Tooth-colored fillings

The Advantages of Dental Fillings

A dental filling is a restorative solution that repairs a tooth's damage caused by decay, fracture, or trauma. It prevents further damage by filling the cavity created by the decay or outside trauma. This will prevent further infection and discomfort, as well as prevent future issues from occurring.

Strength Restoration

While a metal amalgam filling is more robust than your natural enamel, it cannot stand natural forces such as chewing or biting down on a challenging piece of food for long. Still, it can reduce the risk of fractures in the future. But do note that you can still get  a cavity in a filled tooth.

Protection from Bacteria

Your mouth is filled with millions of bacteria and germs that can be harmful to your teeth. Eating and drinking can introduce these into the tooth's pulp and cause an infection. The protection provided by the filling prevents this from happening.

Restored Chewing Function

When the damage is minor, the dental filling will restore the function of the affected tooth. However, restoring the tooth to its previous function may not be an option if significant damage has occurred. If this is the case, other options will be discussed to decide the best solution for you.

In addition to repairing the damage and preventing additional problems, getting a filling will improve your oral health for years to come. Visit Only Kids Dentistry at 239 E San Marnan Dr, Waterloo, IA 50702, or 211 E Bremer Ave, Waverly, IA 50677. Call our Waterloo office at (319) 234-2227  or our Waverly office at (319) 352-4427 to schedule an appointment at your most convenient location.

239 E San Marnan Dr, Waterloo, IA 50702

Phone: (319) 234-2227

Email: onlykidsdentistry@gmail.com

Fax: 3192342882

  • MON8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • TUE1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
  • WED - THU8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • FRI8:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • SAT - SUNClosed
Contact Us

211 e Bremer Ave, Waverly, IA 50677

Phone: (319) 352-4427

Email: onlykidsdentistry@gmail.com

  • MONClosed
  • TUE1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
  • WEDClosed
  • THU1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
  • FRI - SUNClosed
Contact Us