Tooth Fillings
A cavity doesn't have to derail your smile. Our tooth-colored and traditional filling options repair decay quickly and comfortably, usually in a single visit.
What Is a Tooth Filling?
A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay by removing the affected portion and replacing it with a durable material that restores the tooth's shape, strength, and function. It's one of the most common — and most effective — restorative treatments in dentistry.
We offer several filling materials, each with its own strengths, so we can recommend the option that best fits the location of the cavity, the size of the repair, and your personal preferences.
Filling Material Options
Composite (Tooth-Colored)
A resin material shaded to match your natural tooth color and bonded directly to the tooth. Ideal for front teeth or anywhere you want the repair to blend in, while preserving more of your healthy tooth structure.
Amalgam (Silver)
A durable metal alloy that has been used in dentistry for generations. It's cost-effective and well-suited to back teeth, where it needs to withstand heavy chewing forces.
Porcelain Inlay/Onlay
A custom, lab-crafted restoration that fits larger cavities more precisely than a standard filling. Porcelain resists staining and holds up well over time while still matching your tooth color.
Glass Ionomer
A tooth-colored material that releases fluoride to help protect against further decay. It's often used for fillings near the gumline or for younger patients, though it's less durable than composite or porcelain.
What to Expect
- Step 1
Exam & Digital X-Ray
We confirm the extent of the decay and check that a filling — rather than a crown or other treatment — is the right fix.
- Step 2
Numbing the Area
A local anesthetic keeps the tooth and surrounding gum tissue comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Step 3
Removing the Decay
We gently remove the decayed portion of the tooth, keeping as much healthy structure as possible.
- Step 4
Cleaning & Preparing
The area is cleaned and prepped so the filling material bonds securely.
- Step 5
Filling & Shaping
Your chosen filling material is placed and shaped to match your natural tooth contour.
- Step 6
Polishing & Bite Check
We polish the filling smooth and check your bite so everything feels natural when you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting a filling hurt?
Most patients feel little to nothing during the procedure thanks to local anesthetic. You may notice some mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a day or two afterward, which typically fades on its own.
How long do dental fillings last?
It depends on the material and location, but composite and amalgam fillings commonly last anywhere from several years to over a decade with good oral hygiene. Porcelain inlays and onlays tend to hold up especially well for larger repairs.
Will my filling match the color of my tooth?
If that's important to you, composite or porcelain fillings are shaded to blend in with your natural tooth. Amalgam and some glass ionomer fillings are more visible, which is why they're most often used on back teeth.
What happens if I ignore a cavity?
Untreated decay only gets larger and can eventually reach the tooth's nerve, leading to pain, infection, and the need for more involved treatment like a root canal or crown. A simple filling now is almost always the easier, less costly path.
Have a Cavity? Let's Take Care of It.
Schedule a visit and get back to feeling good about your smile.