Fillings

Why Choose Willow Knolls Family Dental for Dental Fillings in Peoria?

If you have a crack, cavity, or hole in your tooth affecting your smile, a tooth filling from your dentist at Willow Knolls Family Dental in Peoria can help you find relief. Our dentists will ensure you receive new or replacement tooth fillings in a safe and comfortable environment.

What is a Tooth Filling?

A tooth filling, also known as dental and cavity fillings, is a type of restorative dental treatment. Dentists use them to repair cavities, chips, cracks, and small holes in teeth. Tooth fillings are crucial to helping maintain dental health and preserving natural teeth. They restore the stability and shape of teeth, ensuring you can chew better while also working to prevent further damage. Additionally, dental fillings will alleviate pain and prevent infection if you have a cavity.

Types of Tooth Fillings

Tooth fillings can be made from various materials. The most common types of materials dentists use for tooth fillings include:

• Composite: Composite fillings are made from resins and fine glass or ceramic particles. They are also known as tooth-colored fillings because they are available in various natural shades, offering a more natural look.
• Glass ionomer: Another tooth-colored filling material is glass ionomer, a mixture of glass and resin. It is a popular material used for temporary fillings, baby teeth, or areas near the gumline.
• Porcelain: Porcelain fillings are indirect filling types made of ceramic polymer material. They are stain-resistant and durable.
• Gold: While they are not as common as they used to be, dentists still use traditional gold fillings. They are made from gold alloy, making them long-lasting, durable, and corrosion resistant.

Your dentist will determine which filling material is best for your needs.

The Dental Filling Procedure

When you arrive at Willow Knolls Family Dental for dental fillings, your dentist will do the following after ensuring you are ready and comfortable:

1. Examination

First, your dentist will examine your mouth and identify teeth that have cracks, cavities, or holes affected. They will likely take x-rays. After assessing your oral health, your dentist will discuss personalized treatment options with you and address any concerns or questions you may have.

2. Tooth Preparation

After the exam, your dentist will prepare the affected teeth for filling. Affected teeth and the surrounding area will be numbed with local anesthesia for your comfort. Then, your dentist will remove damaged or decayed portions of the affected teeth and disinfect surrounding areas.

3. Filling Placement & Polishing

Once the affected teeth are prepped, your dentist will fill the cracks or holes with the dental filling material that works best for your cosmetic and dental health needs (this will be discussed and approved by you before the procedure begins!)

Once fillings are placed, your dentist will polish and smooth any rough edges to ensure they blend in with the rest of your teeth and that you maintain proper bite alignment.