Bid Farewell to Painful Tooth Decay for Good
A bright, healthy smile has the power to light up a room and elevate your presence. When dental issues like decay, cracks, or chips dim your smile’s brilliance, it can drain your confidence and hold you back from fully embracing life’s moments. Don’t let troublesome teeth dictate your comfort and self-assurance any longer. Our Brooklyn, NY dentist, Dr. Aimee Kraft, offers transformative dental filling solutions to restore your smile’s vitality and reclaim your radiant, carefree expression. With an artistic approach, she meticulously rebuilds and renews damaged teeth, allowing your authentic, brilliant smile to shine through once more.
Take the first step today toward a revitalized smile by calling (718) 625-6629 to schedule your dental filling consultation with Dr. Kraft.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative treatments used to repair teeth affected by decay, cracks, or fractures. The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and the remaining space is then filled with a durable material. This filling seals off the area, restoring the tooth’s structure, appearance, and function while protecting it from further decay.
Types of Dental Fillings*
There are several types of dental filling materials available, each with its advantages and considerations.
Amalgam (silver) fillings are a mixture of metals like silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Known for their exceptional durability and resistance to wear, they are often used for fillings in the back teeth where chewing forces are highest. While strong and long-lasting, amalgam fillings have a noticeable silver color that some patients may find unappealing, especially for visible areas.
Composite (tooth-colored) fillings are made from a blend of plastic and glass particles designed to match the natural shade of your teeth. These fillings are a popular choice for visible front teeth as they provide an aesthetically pleasing result. While not as durable as amalgam, composites require less tooth preparation and can be a more conservative treatment option.
Ceramic fillings, crafted from materials like porcelain or ceramic composites, offer exceptional durability and stain resistance. Their natural-looking tooth color makes them suitable for both front and back teeth restorations. However, ceramic fillings are typically more expensive and may require more extensive tooth preparation.
For those needing to restore larger areas of significant tooth damage, gold fillings provide unparalleled strength and durability. Composed of gold combined with other metals, these fillings resist wear and corrosion exceptionally well but have a distinct golden color and higher cost.
*Dr. Kraft may not offer all of these types of fillings. For more information on what kind of fillings can be found at our Brooklyn office reach out to us online or by calling (718) 625-6629.
Dental Filling Process
Regardless of the filling material selected, the process for getting a dental filling at Dr. Kraft’s Brooklyn, NY office follows the same general steps:
In the preparation phase, the area around the affected tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience. Once numb, Dr. Kraft precisely removes any decayed or damaged tooth structure using specialized dental instruments, creating a clean surface for the new filling.
Next, the chosen filling material is carefully placed and shaped within the prepared area of the tooth. Techniques vary based on the material used. For example, composite fillings are built up in layers and cured with a special light to harden each layer.
Finally, the filling is refined, polished, and adjusted as needed to achieve a smooth surface that fits properly with the opposing teeth when biting down. This critical step helps restore ideal tooth function and prevent excessive wear.
Aftercare Instructions for Dental Fillings
While getting a filling is a routine dental procedure, proper aftercare is essential for ensuring the filling’s success and longevity. Dr. Kraft’s office provides detailed instructions, but some key aftercare considerations include sensitivity and maintenance. Temporary sensitivity or discomfort in the filled tooth is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter medication as needed. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact the dental office.
- Maintaining excellent oral hygiene through brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash is crucial for preventing further decay or damage around the filling.
- Avoid sticky, hard foods that could dislodge or break the new filling. With conscientious care and regular check-ups, most dental fillings can last for years before needing to be replaced.
The lifespan varies based on the filling material, its location, and your oral habits. Dr. Kraft closely monitors all fillings and advises on replacements when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fillings can last 5-20 years or more depending on the material, location in the mouth, and your dental hygiene routine. Properly cared-for amalgam fillings may last 10-15 years, composites 5-10 years, and ceramics/gold 15+ years.
While concerns have been raised, amalgam fillings are considered safe when placed by a qualified dentist following proper protocols. Reputable organizations like the ADA and WHO have deemed them an effective, affordable option.
Absolutely. Fillings that become cracked, worn, or have new decay forming around the edges should be replaced promptly to prevent further damage to the tooth.
No, modern anesthetic techniques ensure the filling process itself is painless. Some minor discomfort may occur as the anesthesia wears off, but can be easily managed.