Fillings in Stanley, WI
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, and treating them early protects your teeth from further damage. At Stanley Hometown Dentistry, we restore decayed and damaged teeth with tooth-colored composite fillings that look natural and bond securely to your tooth.
Natural-Looking Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are tooth colored and made from powdered glass quartz, silica, or other ceramic particles added to a resin base. Because they blend with your natural tooth color, no one will know you have a filling. After the decayed area is removed and the tooth is prepared, the composite is bonded to the tooth and a special light is used to harden it.
Signs You May Need a Filling
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Pain when biting down
- A visible hole, dark spot, or rough edge on a tooth
- Food that gets stuck in the same spot
- A chipped tooth or a worn or broken old filling
Many cavities cause no symptoms at first, which is why regular cleanings and exams with digital X-rays are so important.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Composite fillings bond directly to your tooth, which helps support its structure and often requires removing less healthy tooth material than older metal fillings. They are mercury free and can also repair small chips and cracks.
What Happens If a Cavity Is Not Treated?
Untreated decay continues to spread and can reach the nerve inside the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and the need for a root canal or crown. Treating cavities early with a simple filling saves time, money, and your natural tooth. For children’s fillings, visit our pediatric cavities and fillings page.
Fillings FAQs
How long does a filling take?
Most fillings are completed in a single visit lasting 30 minutes to an hour.
Does getting a filling hurt?
We numb the area before treatment, so you should feel little to no discomfort.
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last five to ten years or longer with good oral hygiene.
Can I eat after getting a filling?
Composite fillings harden immediately, but wait until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
Can you replace my old metal fillings?
Yes. Old amalgam fillings that are worn or damaged can be replaced with tooth-colored composite.
Will my tooth be sensitive after a filling?
Mild sensitivity for a few days is normal. Call us if it lasts longer than a couple of weeks.
How can I prevent cavities?
Brush twice a day, floss daily, limit sugary snacks, and keep up with regular dental visits.
Treat Cavities Before They Grow
Call Stanley Hometown Dentistry at (715) 644-3601 or request an appointment online to schedule your visit with Dr. James Gunelson in Stanley, WI .