Dental Fillings and Restorations | Hickory, NC
Reliable solutions for cavities and damaged teeth.
Dental fillings and restorations play a crucial role in preserving the health and function of your teeth. At McKinney-Graham Dental Arts, we offer a comprehensive range of restorative services to address tooth decay, damage, and other dental issues, ensuring you can enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a common restorative treatment used to repair teeth affected by cavities or decay. During this procedure, our skilled dentists remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the resulting space with a durable, tooth-colored material, restoring the tooth’s structure and preventing further damage.
Types of Dental Fillings
We offer various types of dental fillings to meet your specific needs and preferences:
Composite Fillings
These tooth-colored fillings are made from a blend of plastic and glass materials, providing a natural-looking and durable solution for both front and back teeth.
Amalgam Fillings
Also known as silver fillings, amalgam fillings are a strong and long-lasting option, often used for restoring molars and other teeth subjected to heavy chewing forces.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
These fillings release fluoride over time, helping to strengthen the surrounding tooth structure and prevent further decay.
Dental Restorations
Crowns
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance.
Inlays and Onlays
These partial crowns are used to repair damage or decay on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, providing a more conservative alternative to full crowns.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth, using the adjacent teeth for support.
Dental Fillings and Restoration Before & After
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do dental fillings last?
A: The lifespan of a dental filling depends on various factors, including the type of filling material used, the location of the filling, and your oral hygiene habits. On average, composite fillings can last 5-10 years, while amalgam fillings may last 10-15 years or longer with proper care.
Q: Will I experience pain or discomfort during the filling procedure?
A: Our dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free experience during the filling procedure. You may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for a short period after the anesthesia wears off, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication if needed.
Q: How can I extend the lifespan of my dental fillings?
A: To prolong the lifespan of your dental fillings, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting our office for routine cleanings and checkups. Avoiding habits like chewing on hard objects or grinding your teeth can also help prevent premature wear or damage to your fillings.