Fillings

Fillings

It doesn’t matter how old or young you are: cavities can affect anyone. That’s why Main Family Dental Care in Davenport, Iowa and the Quad Cities, provides custom fillings that repair decay and restore the health and function of teeth. Fillings are simple, cost-effective restorations that curb the effects of decay on your teeth. With fillings, you can also still eat your favorite foods without worrying about chips or cracks. To schedule a consultation, call Main Family Dental Care today or request an appointment online.

Fillings Q&A

What is a dental filling?

Dental fillings are a very common type of restoration used to replace sections of teeth that are missing, damaged, or decayed. They’re often used to treat cavities — small holes that form in your teeth that are caused by decay. Fillings are molded restorations that help reshape or resize your teeth to help achieve a natural-looking appearance and prevent future decay.

What are dental fillings made of?

The latest advances in dental technology have created a wider and improved selection of restorative filling choices. At Main Family Dental Care, fillings can be made of a host of different materials, including:

• Gold
• Amalgam
• Porcelain
• Ceramic
• Composite resin

Different materials present different benefits. For instance, gold fillings are extremely durable, but aren’t tooth-colored and can detract from your smile. While composite resin, which is a popular choice, will blend in nicely with your smile.

The dental experts at Main Family Dental Care can help you evaluate your options and choose what’s best for you and your smile.

How does the procedure for a dental filling work?

Generally, a dental filling procedure is very simple and can be completed in under an hour. First, we evaluate your tooth and helps you decide on what type of filling material is best for you.

Then, during the actual procedure, we use special dental instruments to carefully mold the putty-like filling substance onto your affected tooth. Carefully, we shape it to perfectly match your original tooth in size and shape. After a final polish to smooth out the surface, we complete the filling.

How long does a dental filling last?

On average, fillings should last about 7-10 years. However, the lifespan of your filling depends largely on you. You need to treat your filling like a natural tooth and brush and floss diligently. Also, keep coming in for regular cleanings to keep your filling in good shape. The longevity of your filling will also depend on the type of material you chose. You may want to avoid foods like hard candies that can potentially crack your filling.

To schedule a consultation at Main Family Dental Care and learn more about fillings, call the office or request an appointment online today.