Tooth-Colored Fillings – Dental Q&A
What are tooth-colored fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, also called composite resin fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic resin and fine glass particles. They are shade-matched to blend with the natural color of your tooth, making them nearly invisible compared to traditional silver amalgam fillings. Composite fillings bond directly to tooth structure and require less drilling than amalgam. They are the standard choice at most Columbus-area dental offices today.
Can broken or old fillings be repaired in Columbus?
Yes. Broken, cracked, or worn-out fillings can be repaired or replaced at a dental office in Columbus. A broken filling should be treated promptly — leaving it unaddressed allows bacteria to get under the filling and cause further decay or fracture of the tooth. The Smile Method can evaluate existing fillings, remove old amalgam if desired, and replace them with natural-looking tooth-colored composite.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Composite resin fillings typically last seven to ten years, though many last longer with proper care. They may need replacement sooner than amalgam in areas of heavy bite force, like back molars. The Smile Method checks the condition of all existing fillings during routine exams in Gahanna and Columbus so failing restorations are caught before they lead to larger problems.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver amalgam fillings?
Modern composite resin fillings are strong enough for most teeth, including back teeth, and have become the standard in most dental offices. Amalgam is generally considered more durable under extreme bite pressure and has a longer track record for very large restorations. For most routine cavities, composite performs comparably to amalgam. Your dentist will recommend the best material based on the size and location of the cavity.
Are there any health concerns with amalgam (silver) fillings?
Dental amalgam contains mercury combined with other metals. Major dental and health organizations including the ADA and FDA consider amalgam fillings safe for most adults and children over six. However, the FDA advises caution for pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and people with certain kidney conditions. Many patients choose composite fillings to avoid amalgam entirely as a personal preference, which is a perfectly reasonable choice.
Does getting a tooth-colored filling hurt?
Getting a filling is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some pressure and vibration from the dental drill are normal. After the anesthesia wears off, mild soreness for one to two days is common, particularly if the tooth was deeply decayed. Sensitivity to cold or sweets after a filling is normal and usually resolves within a few weeks.
Can I replace my old silver fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Yes. Old amalgam fillings can be replaced with tooth-colored composite resin for aesthetic reasons or if the old filling is failing. The Smile Method offers amalgam replacement with natural-looking composite in a single appointment. Healthy, intact amalgam fillings do not need to be replaced unless you prefer composite for cosmetic reasons — your dentist will give an honest recommendation.
What type of filling is used for a cavity near the gum line?
Tooth-colored composite resin is the most common material used for cavities at or near the gum line. These cavities occur on the smooth root surface where teeth are exposed due to gum recession. Composite bonds well to both enamel and dentin and matches the tooth color, making it ideal for this highly visible area. Glass ionomer cement is another option sometimes used at gum-line cavities because it releases fluoride to help prevent recurrence.
How much do tooth-colored fillings cost in Columbus, Ohio?
Composite resin fillings typically cost $150 to $300 per tooth depending on the size and number of surfaces involved. Amalgam fillings are slightly less expensive. Dental insurance generally covers a portion of filling costs, though some plans only cover the amalgam rate for composite. The Smile Method accepts most major insurance plans and offers payment options to help cover any out-of-pocket portion.
How do I know if a filling needs to be replaced?
Signs that a filling may need replacement include tooth sensitivity or pain, a cracked or chipped feeling when biting, a visible crack in or around the filling, or a dark discoloration or gap at the edge of the filling. Your dentist checks the condition of all existing fillings during routine exams using visual inspection and X-rays. Catching a failing filling early prevents decay from spreading under it and potentially requiring a crown or root canal.