Tooth-Colored Fillings
Modern composite fillings repair cavities and small chips without the dark look — or the long-term cracking — of old silver fillings.
What to expect
A typical filling visit takes 30–60 minutes, depending on size and location. The tooth is numbed, the decay is cleaned out, and a tooth-colored composite resin is shaped and bonded into place. Most patients can eat normally right away.
Composite vs. older silver fillings
- Composite bonds directly to the tooth, so we can preserve more healthy structure.
- It's tooth-colored and essentially invisible.
- It doesn't expand and contract with temperature the way amalgam does, reducing the risk of long-term cracking.
Replacing old fillings
Old amalgam fillings don't need to be replaced just for cosmetic reasons. But if a silver filling is cracked, leaking, or the tooth around it is breaking down, that's the right time to switch to a modern composite restoration — or, if the damage is significant, a crown.
Preventing future fillings
The best filling is the one you never need. Regular cleanings, twice-daily brushing, and daily flossing remain the most effective cavity-prevention tools. We can also recommend custom fluoride trays or sealants if you're cavity-prone.