Tooth-colored fillings can repair some cavities and minor damage. The dentist will examine the tooth and explain whether a filling or a different restoration is appropriate.
Questions are welcome. Ask what treatment could involve.
TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Repair and seal a damaged area
A filling replaces tooth structure lost to decay or minor damage. Composite resin is tooth-colored and can be shaped to restore the tooth.
01
Small cavity
A filling may be appropriate when enough healthy tooth remains.
02
Larger breakdown
A crown or another restoration may better protect a weakened tooth.
03
Deep tooth pain
The dentist may need to assess whether the pulp is affected.
04
Do not wait for pain
A cavity can develop without obvious symptoms. Routine exams give the dentist a chance to identify and discuss concerns before they become more complex.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What happens at a filling visit
The dentist will explain the steps for the specific tooth.
01
Confirm the diagnosis
Review symptoms, examination, and imaging if needed.
02
Remove decay and restore
Prepare the tooth and place the recommended material.
03
Check and protect
Check the bite, polish the restoration, and review care instructions.
THE RIGHT RESTORATION
When a filling may not be enough
A large cavity or fracture may leave too little healthy tooth for a filling. Your dentist can explain whether a crown or another treatment is needed.
Diagnose first The exam determines the extent of decay or damage.01
Discuss material Ask about composite and other restorative choices.02
Care afterward Review bite, sensitivity, and home care.03
Find an office near you
Compare locations, hours, and contact details, then book at the office you prefer.
A tooth-colored filling uses a material such as composite resin to repair a cavity or other small area of tooth damage. It is selected to blend with the surrounding tooth.
How do I know whether I need a filling?
A dentist assesses the tooth and may use imaging to check for decay or damage. A tooth can need treatment even when it does not hurt.
When would a crown be recommended instead?
A more extensive restoration may be needed when there is not enough healthy tooth structure for a filling. Your dentist can explain why a filling or crown is recommended.
Can an old filling be replaced?
The dentist can assess an existing filling for damage or decay and discuss whether replacement is needed. Ask about the benefits and risks before replacing a filling for appearance alone.
What if the tooth feels sensitive or my bite feels different?
Contact the office and explain when the symptoms started and what triggers them. The dentist can assess the tooth and check the restoration and bite.
How long do fillings last?
Fillings may eventually need repair or replacement. Daily care, the size of the restoration, and your bite affect maintenance. Regular examinations help the dentist monitor them.
Does insurance cover tooth-colored fillings?
Benefits and material coverage vary by plan. Ask your office for an estimate and a review of any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.
How do I arrange an appointment?
Choose an office below and book an examination, or call if you have a broken filling or tooth pain that needs attention.
EXPLORE CARE
Related dental care
Need a cavity checked?
Choose an office for an exam and individualized treatment recommendation.
We use essential cookies to make this site work. With your permission, we also use analytics to understand how people use the site. Office maps use Google Maps and load automatically, independently of optional-cookie choices. You can accept, reject, or choose optional cookies and change your choice anytime in Cookie settings.
Essential
Always active
Required for essential site features and for remembering your cookie choices. These stay on.
Preferences
Remember optional choices that make your visits more convenient.
Analytics
Help us understand website use so we can improve the site. These stay off until you choose to allow them.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
External content
Office maps load automatically from this site and do not require a cookie choice. Directions links open Google Maps only when selected. Advertising tracking is disabled in this staging test.