Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you have cavities, chips, or minor tooth damage, tooth-colored fillings offer a discreet and durable solution. At our dental practice in Wilsonville, OR, we provide high-quality composite resin fillings that match the natural shade of your teeth. Our team of experienced dentists is dedicated to restoring your smile with treatments that look and feel completely natural—without the drawbacks of traditional metal fillings.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made from a blend of safe, durable materials such as plastic resin and finely ground glass particles. These materials are specially designed to mimic the color, texture, and strength of natural tooth enamel, making them an ideal choice for patients who want a seamless, aesthetic solution to cavities or minor damage.
Unlike silver amalgam fillings, which are easily noticeable and can expand or contract with temperature changes, composite fillings bond directly to your tooth structure for added support and a more natural appearance.
Why Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings?
There are many reasons why patients in Wilsonville prefer tooth-colored fillings over traditional metal options:
Natural Appearance: These fillings are custom-shaded to match the surrounding tooth, making them virtually invisible.
Preserves Tooth Structure: Composite material bonds tightly to the tooth, allowing for a more conservative preparation and less drilling.
Mercury-Free: Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings are completely free of mercury, making them a safer choice for many patients.
Durable and Long-Lasting: With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can last 7–10 years or more.
Versatile Use: They can be used not only for cavities but also for repairing chipped, cracked, or worn teeth.
When Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Needed?
Tooth-colored fillings are commonly used for:
Repairing small to medium-sized cavities caused by tooth decay
Replacing old or failing amalgam fillings
Restoring chipped or fractured teeth
Closing small gaps between teeth (diastemas)
Reshaping teeth for improved aesthetics
Whether you’re experiencing tooth pain or simply want to replace noticeable metal fillings, our team in Wilsonville can evaluate your smile and determine if composite fillings are the right solution for you.
Our Tooth-Colored Filling Procedure
The process of receiving a tooth-colored filling is quick, comfortable, and typically completed in a single visit. Here’s what you can expect at our Wilsonville dental office:
1. Examination and Diagnosis
We begin with a thorough dental exam, including digital X-rays if needed, to assess the size and location of the cavity or damage.
2. Numbing the Area
A local anesthetic is used to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring a comfortable and pain-free experience.
3. Removing Decay
Your dentist will carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using precise, minimally invasive techniques.
4. Applying the Composite Resin
The tooth-colored resin is applied in layers, with each layer cured (hardened) using a special LED light. This ensures a strong and long-lasting bond to the tooth.
5. Shaping and Polishing
Once the filling is fully cured, we shape it to fit your natural bite and polish the surface for a smooth, natural finish.
Tooth-Colored Fillings vs. Metal Fillings
While amalgam (silver) fillings were once the standard, composite fillings offer several advantages that make them the preferred option for most patients today:
Aesthetics: Composite fillings blend in with your teeth, while metal fillings stand out.
Bonding: Composite materials chemically bond to the tooth for added support, while metal fillings rely on mechanical retention.
Preservation: Composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure during placement.
Sensitivity: Composite fillings are less likely to expand or contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracking or sensitivity.
Longevity and Care
With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can last for many years. To extend their life, we recommend the following:
Brush and floss daily using fluoride toothpaste
Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens
Limit sugary snacks and acidic beverages
Schedule regular checkups and cleanings every six months
Our dental team will monitor your fillings during your routine visits and provide any necessary maintenance or replacement over time.
Experienced Dentists in Wilsonville You Can Trust
Our dental practice is proud to serve the Wilsonville community with a team of knowledgeable and compassionate professionals. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we use the latest materials and techniques to deliver outstanding results. We treat patients of all ages and tailor every treatment to your unique oral health needs.
Whether you need a small cavity filled or want to replace older dental work with a more modern solution, our team is here to help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you suspect a cavity or are interested in upgrading your smile with tooth-colored fillings, don’t wait. Early treatment helps prevent more serious dental problems and keeps your teeth strong for years to come. Call our Wilsonville office today to schedule your appointment with one of our experienced dentists and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tooth-colored fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are completely safe and free from mercury. They are made from biocompatible materials and are widely used in modern dentistry.
How long do composite fillings last?
With proper care, composite fillings typically last between 7 and 10 years, and in many cases, even longer.
Can I replace my metal fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Absolutely. Many patients choose to replace their old amalgam fillings for cosmetic or health-related reasons. Our dentists can evaluate your existing fillings and recommend the best approach.
Do tooth-colored fillings cost more than metal fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings may cost slightly more than amalgam due to the material and technique involved. However, many dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, especially for front teeth.
Will the filling look natural?
Yes. The composite resin is matched to your tooth color, so the result is virtually indistinguishable from your natural enamel. Most people won’t even know you’ve had dental work done.