Tooth Fillings

A tooth filling is a material we use to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or a minor fracture. When a cavity forms, we remove the decayed portion and replace it with a filling. This will stop further damage, relieve discomfort, and keep your tooth strong and intact.

At our office, we use composite fillings instead of silver fillings because they are metal-free and bond directly to your enamel. This allows us to keep more healthy tooth structure. You also don't have to worry about mercury found in traditional amalgam fillings. You get a strong, durable repair that looks great when you smile.

During your filling appointment, we numb your tooth so you stay comfortable. Then your dentist gently removes the decay and cleans the area. Tooth-colored composite material is placed in layers. We shape and polish it so it feels natural when you bite. You can relax in our massaging chairs and enjoy music or white noise throughout.

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how easy a filling appointment feels. We carefully numb the area and use gentle techniques to keep you comfortable. You may feel pressure or vibration, but you should not feel sharp pain. Our team checks in with you often, so we can pause or adjust if you need a break.

With good home care and regular checkups, composite fillings can last many years. Their lifespan depends on the size of the filling, your bite, and habits like grinding or chewing ice. We monitor your fillings at every visit and let you know if we see any wear so we can address it early and protect your tooth.

Yes, modern composite materials are strong and work well for both front and back teeth. We use high-quality, tested materials that are free of metal and mercury. When properly placed and cared for, these fillings withstand normal chewing forces and protect your tooth. They provide a more lifelike appearance than dark metal fillings.

If we delay treatment, a small cavity can grow and reach deeper layers of your tooth. This can lead to more pain, a higher risk of infection, and the need for more extensive treatment. A simple filling completed early helps you avoid bigger problems, higher costs, and potential tooth loss.

After your filling, your mouth may stay numb for a few hours. Once the numbness wears off, you might notice mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or biting pressure for a short time. This usually improves quickly. If anything feels uncomfortable when you bite, we can easily adjust it to restore a natural, comfortable fit.