Dental Fillings Morris IL

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic health conditions. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it, and in cases where decay is unavoidable, a dental filling is an affordable, natural-looking, and safe solution. Not only are our fillings at Halkyard Family Dental some of the most aesthetic restorations available today, but they are strong and long-lasting as well.

Dental Fillings — The Best Solution for Tooth Restoration

At Halkyard Family Dental, we rely on high-quality materials, latest technology, and advanced techniques to create restorations for our patients that last a lifetime. Our goal is to create results that are designed to be virtually undetectable. We use tooth-colored fillings as restorations when our patients have:

• Tooth decay
• Chipped teeth
• Cracked teeth

How do I know if I need a filling?

If you are experiencing discomfort in your teeth, you may be a good candidate for a filling. Tooth sensitivity is an effective indicator of decay or fracture. When you come in for an evaluation, either Dr. will direct you to the appropriate dental treatment for your situation. We typically recommend fillings as the best solution for restoring teeth that have severe tooth decay, cracks, chips and cavities.

Cavity Prevention — What can I do to prevent the need for a filling?

The best way to fight cavities and maintain healthy gums and teeth is to keep up on your daily habit of proper oral hygiene. Here are 5 ways to ward off tooth decay and prevent cavities:

• Come in to our office for a comprehensive oral exam and regular cleanings.
• Brush after meals and use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
• Drink more water and cut back on sugary and acidic drinks.
• Develop the habit of flossing every night.
• Avoid smoking.

What types of fillings to we offer?

We offer composite fillings and amalgam fillings.

What’s wrong with metal/amalgam fillings?

In addition to being more aesthetically pleasing, composite fillings are completely safe and non-toxic. However, some believe that none of these advantages ring true for metal fillings. Some research suggests that amalgam fillings—made with mercury, silver, tin, copper and other metals—may lead to health problems.

The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs has concluded that both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration.

What’s the difference between a filling and an inlay/onlay?

A filling does what it says it does—it is filling in a cavity, a hole that has been created by decay or trauma, essentially restoring normal tooth anatomy. When we create a filling from composite resin, we shade the white material so that it blends naturally with your surrounding tooth structure. The result is a restoration that is practically invisible.

Inlays and onlays are used when the damage or decay to a tooth requires more than a filling—but less than a crown. In other words, if your tooth does not have enough tooth structure for a filling but it is not so severely damaged that it warrants a crown, you may be an excellent candidate for an inlay or onlay.

Made of porcelain, an inlay is crafted at a dental lab by an expert ceramist and cemented into or onto the center of the tooth, inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay covers the top chewing surface of the tooth. We use porcelain because it very closely mimics enamel and offers decades of strength and security.

 

We are excited to be able to restore decayed teeth to their optimal appearance and function with fillings, inlays, and onlays. At Halkyard Family Dental, we use dental fillings to help adult and pediatric patients preserve their healthy, beautiful teeth and avoid additional damage.

For more information about our dental fillings, call our office today! Halkyard Family Dental Phone Number (815) 942-0830