Dental Fillings
Exploring the Best Dental Filling Options at Pratt Family Dental
As a convenient, local provider of state-of-the-art dentistry in Pratt, Kansas, our office has the knowledge and tools to recommend many different treatment options and services to our one-of-a-kind patients. Notably, you are not limited in your options for dental fillings at Pratt Family Dental. Our talented dentists, Drs. Carson Hopkins and Steven Kunz provide a wide range of durable filling materials to rebuild your tooth, and, in doing so, we restore the beauty and health of your smile.
The “whys” behind fillings
Fillings are the go-to treatment to repair cavities. A cavity is a hole that forms in a tooth. When decay erodes the tooth structure, it may leave behind a hole where the natural tissue used to be. Fittingly, fillings “fill in” those cavitated or eroded areas. Once the filling material is applied, the structure is restored, strengthening a weakened tooth and restoring its healthy function and lovely appearance. Lastly, prompt placement of fillings prevents the need for more extensive restorative care – or even the loss of a tooth.
It should be noted that not all cavities are appropriate candidates for fillings. There must be sufficient structure for the filling to hold on to, and a big cavity or hole in the tooth may not support the needed restoration. In these cases, Drs. Hopkins or Kunz will discuss alternatives to effectively treat the tooth and halt the progression of the disease and further damage.
What to expect
The treatment starts with an exam. One of our dentists will then determine the best option in partnership with you, and those options could range from modifications to oral care to “build up” damaged enamel to “fuller coverage” dental inlays, onlays, and crowns. Fillings are highly conservative dental restorations. They preserve significant natural tooth structure. If a filling is appropriate, the following steps depend on the type of dental material used to craft your filling. These options include:
- Metal-free composite resins, which can be perfectly color-matched to the surrounding tooth structure and neighboring teeth
- Metal amalgams, which are made from silver, copper, tin, and other materials, are known for their strength and durability
Composite resin or tooth-colored fillings are generally appropriate for the anterior teeth visible when you smile. They provide a mainly cosmetic option. Amalgam fillings are best for teeth such as the molars. They have the strength to withstand the extreme forces generated by these teeth during functions like mashing chewy foods.
Amalgam fillings are “indirect restorations,” the medical way of referring to the introduction of the prepared filling material to a tooth that has been cleaned and is free of decayed or damaged tissue. Once applied, the filling is then secured to the natural tooth. Composite fillings are “direct restoration,” with the pliable resin material being introduced in layers. The resin is hardened as each layer is added to ensure a strong bond between the filling and the tooth.
Questions? Contact Pratt Family Dental!
Don’t hesitate to reach out! Call us today at (620) 672-3612 and let our friendly team assist you with all your needs. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to answer any questions. Connect with us now and experience the best service in Pratt, KS!

Carson T. Hopkins, DMD
Carson T. Hopkins, DMD, graduated from Brigham Young University and the University of Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine and moved to Pratt, Kansas, where he purchased his first dental practice in 2009. He is a general dentist who believes in helping patients reduce travel by performing as many procedures as possible in his office unless in situations where working with trusted specialists can accomplish better patient comfort and expedite complex treatment plans.

Steven M. Kunz, DMD
Steven M. Kunz, DMD, served four years as a Navy Corpsman before leaving the Navy and attending Mount San Jacinto Community College in Menifee, CA, and the University of California, Riverside. He completed dental school at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois, in May 2018 and moved to Pratt, KS, where he worked with Dr. Hopkins as partners.

Ken Dillehay, DDS
Ken Dillehay, DDS, graduated from Castle Heights Military Academy, University of Mississippi, and dental school at the University of Tennessee Center for the Health Sciences, where he received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. He practiced general dentistry in Carthage, TN, before receiving specialty training in orthodontics (Masters) at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Dillehay is a member and Fellow of many prestigious dental associations. He is also the orthodontic specialty examiner and consultant for the Kansas Dental Board and has received many awards, recognitions, and accolades, including the ‘Dentist of the Year’ award from both the Wichita District Dental Society and the Kansas Dental Association.
The doctors love utilizing modern technologies in the office to provide patients with a complete, pleasant, and memorable dental experience.