Fillings and Sealants

Tooth decay and cavities are common dental issues. Receiving a tooth-colored filling to restore your tooth helps prevent the problem from developing into something worse.

Tooth Fillings and Sealants in Wichita, KS

What is a tooth filling?

Dental fillings are a common and straightforward procedure used to restore cavities or mild decay or deterioration. We offer two options for fillings: composite fillings and amalgam fillings. Both are safe and have a high success rate. The type of filling we use depends on your specific needs. However, we usually prefer composite fillings because they are tooth-colored and appear more natural, especially for teeth that are visible or noticeable by others.

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are a thin protective coating that is painted on teeth to prevent cavities. Typically used in children, they can also be used in adults. Sealants are a quick and affordable option to prevent tooth decay and the need for fillings.

tooth filling
  • How do cavity fillings work?

    Cavity and tooth fillings are required because of the deterioration of holes left in the tooth due to tooth decay. Left unchecked, the decay will continue to spread and damage the tooth. During the filling procedure dentists clean away the decay inside the cavity, usually with a drill to prevent further damage. But this doesn’t fix the damage that has already been created, so a filling is necessary. The intent of the filling is to replace the part of the tooth that is missing or destroyed by tooth decay. The dentist molds the filling to match the shape of the surrounding tooth, which restores the strength and integrity of the tooth and prevents further decay from happening.

  • How long does a dental sealant last?

    Dental sealants have been used and proven to be effective since the 1970s. They are mainly placed on chewing surfaces and are effective in preventing tooth decay. Their lifespan can vary, but many last years—and it is possible to place a new sealant on a tooth if the sealant wears off. It is important to note that sealants only protect the surface of the tooth they are placed on. Using fluoride and other preventative cleaning practices will still help protect all the surfaces of the tooth from decay and cavities.

  • What types of filling materials are available?

    There are several types of materials available that are used for fillings, which include gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (which consists of mercury mixed with silver, tin, zinc and copper), tooth-colored plastic and composite resin fillings. There is also a material that contains glass particles and is known as glass ionomer. This material is used in ways similar to the use of composite resin fillings. Which type is used depends on your dentist and the extent and location of your tooth decay.

  • Should I have tooth sensitivity after a filling?

    When you get a filling, the area around the infected tooth is numbed by your dentist. As a result, you likely won’t feel anything for an hour or two after your appointment but once the numbing wears off it is typical to feel pain in your teeth and gums.

    Pain is common when drinking or eating anything that is hot or cold. It is also common when you brush or floss near the infected tooth. Tender gums are also typical after getting a cavity filled.

    Minimize Tooth Sensitivity

    You can reduce the sensitivity in your teeth and gums by:

    • Taking an anti-inflammatory drug like Advil or Motrin
    • Temporarily avoiding hot, cold, or acidic foods and beverages such as fruit, wine, and yogurt
    • Brush and floss more gently
    • Use a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive

     

More Questions?

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office and we'll be happy to help.

Humlicek Dental

231 N West St.
Wichita, Kansas 67203
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Hours

Monday: 8am - 5pm
Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
Wednesday: 7am - 2pm
Thursday: 8am - 5pm
Friday: 8am - 12pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Phone

(316) 945-8367

Email Address

[email protected]