— WHAT THEY ARE
A Natural-Looking Restorative Option
When a cavity or small area of tooth damage needs repair, tooth-colored composite resin provides a restorative option that can blend naturally with the surrounding enamel. Composite is mercury-free and bonds directly to prepared tooth structure.
Our doctors use modern composite materials selected for their strength, appearance, and ability to restore the tooth while preserving healthy structure whenever possible.
Existing amalgam fillings do not need to be replaced simply because they are silver. We can evaluate older restorations and discuss replacement when a filling is damaged, failing, or when a patient has an aesthetic preference for tooth-colored material.
Per Filling
$180–$350
depending on size
— WHY IT MATTERS
Why Composite Beats Amalgam
Invisible
Composite can be shade-matched to blend with the surrounding tooth.
Bonded
Composite bonds directly to the prepared tooth structure.
Conservative
Less tooth removal needed compared to silver fillings — preserves more of your natural tooth.
Mercury-Free
Composite contains no mercury — silver amalgam fillings contain about 50%.
One Visit
Most fillings are done in a single 30–60 minute appointment.
Durable
Modern composite materials are designed to withstand everyday chewing when used in appropriate situations.
— THE PROCESS
Getting a Filling
1
Numbing
Local anesthetic is used when needed to help keep the area comfortable during treatment.
2
Cavity Removal
One of our doctors removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and prepares the area for restoration.
3
Bonding & Filling
Composite is layered in, hardened with a curing light, and shaped to match your tooth.
4
Bite Check
We polish the filling and check your bite — you leave with a fully functioning tooth.
Signs You Need One
Do I Have a Cavity?
Cavities do not always cause pain — many are caught at routine cleanings before they hurt. Some signs to watch for:
-
Visible dark spots or holes in a tooth
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Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods
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Pain when biting down
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Food consistently getting stuck in one spot
-
Discomfort that comes and goes
— Common Questions
Fillings FAQ
Local anesthesia is commonly used to keep the treatment area comfortable. Some temporary sensitivity may occur after treatment.
Most fillings take 30–60 minutes per tooth. Larger fillings or multiple teeth take longer.
Modern composite fillings typically last 10–15 years with good oral hygiene.
Not necessarily — but if they are old, leaking, cracked, or you prefer the look of composite, replacement is a great option.
Yes — composite fillings are hardened with a UV light during the procedure, so you can eat immediately after numbness wears off.
