Tooth-Colored Fillings in South Lake Union, Seattle
Durable, Natural-Looking Composite Fillings
Why Fillings Matter
A filling is the simplest way to stop tooth decay in its tracks and restore the part of the tooth lost to the cavity. Caught early, a cavity is a quick, comfortable visit. Left alone, the same cavity can grow into the nerve of the tooth and turn into a root canal and crown.
Reasons you may need a filling:
- A new cavity found at a routine exam
- A small chip or fracture on the edge of a tooth
- An old silver (amalgam) filling that has cracked, leaked, or fallen out
- A worn-down area where the tooth meets the gumline
- A cosmetic improvement to the front of a tooth (small bonding)
Why We Don’t Place New Silver Fillings
Silver (amalgam) fillings served dentistry well for a long time, but composite fillings are now the standard for almost every situation. Composite bonds directly to the tooth, requires less removal of healthy structure, looks natural, and seals against future decay better than amalgam.
Benefits of composite fillings
- Bonds chemically to the tooth, strengthening what is left
- Conserves more of your natural tooth structure
- Color-matched to your enamel; invisible in your smile and laugh
- Sets and hardens in a single visit
- Mercury-free
What to Expect at a Filling Visit
Step 1: Numbing
Your dentist gently numbs the area with local anesthetic. We take time at this step so you are comfortable before any work begins.
Step 2: Removing the decay
Decayed tooth structure is carefully removed with minimal disturbance to surrounding healthy enamel.
Step 3: Placing the composite
The composite material is placed in layers, sculpted to restore the natural shape of the tooth, and cured (hardened) with a special light.
Step 4: Polishing and bite check
The new filling is polished smooth and your bite is checked so everything feels natural when you chew.
Step 5: After your visit
You can eat normally as soon as the numbing wears off. Mild sensitivity to cold for a few days is common and usually goes away on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a filling appointment take?
Most single fillings take 30 to 60 minutes from start to finish, including numbing and polishing.
How long do composite fillings last?
A well-placed composite filling typically lasts seven to ten years and many last longer, depending on the size of the filling, how the tooth is used, and your home care.
Will my filling hurt?
No. The area is numbed before any work begins. Mild sensitivity to cold for a few days after the visit is normal and resolves on its own.
Does insurance cover fillings?
Most PPO dental plans cover composite fillings, typically at 70 to 80 percent after your deductible. We verify your specific benefits before treatment.
Should I replace all my old silver fillings?
Not necessarily. Silver fillings that are intact and sealing well don’t need replacement just because of their material.
Can I eat right after a filling?
Yes, once the numbing wears off (usually one to three hours). Composite fillings are fully hardened during the appointment, so there is no waiting period.
What if my filling feels too high when I bite?
Call us. A small bite adjustment is quick and easy and makes the filling feel right immediately.
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes. Composite has been used in dental restorations for decades and is safe, BPA-free in modern formulations, and the standard of care for almost every routine cavity.
Can I get a filling on a Saturday?
Yes. We offer Saturday appointments from 8am to 2pm. Saturday slots fill quickly, so book early.
When It’s Time to Update Old Amalgams
Many adults have silver fillings placed decades ago. We don’t recommend removing them just because they are silver, but when an old amalgam starts to crack, leak, or fail at the margins, replacing it with composite is a chance to also improve the look of your smile.
