A dental filling repairs decayed, cracked, or worn teeth, restoring strength and preventing further damage. By placing a durable material like silver or resin into the affected area, fillings seal and protect your tooth from future decay. They’re also used to reinforce teeth weakened by grinding, clenching, or nail-biting.
At Dental Depot of Arlington, we specialize in high-quality dental fillings to restore and protect your teeth from decay, cracks, and wear. Whether you need a new filling or a replacement, our experienced team ensures a comfortable, efficient treatment tailored to your needs.
We are committed to providing exceptional care for patients of all ages, using durable, natural-looking materials to preserve both function and aesthetics. With flexible scheduling, Saturday appointments, and a patient-centered approach, we make it easy to get the quality dental care you deserve.
Fillings are generally composed of one of four primary materials: silver (or amalgam), gold, composite resin, or ceramic (porcelain).
Silver (amalgam) fillings are a long-lasting, budget-friendly option for treating cavities. They typically last 10 to 15 years and are ideal for back teeth, where their strength and durability can withstand the pressure of chewing and biting.
Gold fillings are a highly durable and long-lasting option for treating cavities. Known for their exceptional strength, they can last 20 years or more, making them ideal for back teeth that endure heavy chewing and biting forces. While more expensive than other options, gold fillings provide superior longevity and reliability for lasting dental protection.
Composite (resin) fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them a discreet and aesthetic option for cavity repair. While they may not be fully covered by all insurance plans, most providers will cover the cost up to that of a silver filling, with the remaining balance being the patient’s responsibility.
Ceramic (porcelain) fillings offer a natural, tooth-colored appearance with added durability and stain resistance. While they are more expensive than composite fillings, they provide a long-lasting and aesthetically superior option for restoring cavities.
When a tooth lacks enough structure for a standard filling but doesn’t need a crown, an indirect filling may be the best solution. These fillings are similar to tooth-colored composite fillings but require two visits for placement.
During the first visit, your dentist will remove decay, take an impression, and send it to a lab where a custom filling is created. At the second visit, the new filling is cemented in place, restoring your tooth’s strength and function.
Getting a dental filling is a quick, routine procedure designed to restore your tooth’s strength and prevent further decay. The entire process typically takes about an hour, ensuring you get back to your day with minimal downtime.
Before starting, your dentist will examine your tooth to assess the extent of the decay. X-rays may be taken to get a clearer view of the cavity and surrounding structures.
To keep you comfortable, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the affected tooth, gums, and surrounding area. This ensures a pain-free experience. The numbing process takes a few minutes to fully activate, and during this time, your dentist may step away to check on other patients.
Once the area is numb, your dentist will carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth using specialized tools. After the decay is removed, the area is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris, preventing future infections.
Depending on the type of filling chosen—silver (amalgam), composite resin, gold, or ceramic—your dentist will place and secure the material into the prepared space. Composite and ceramic fillings require a curing process with a special light to harden and bond them to the tooth.
Once the filling is securely in place, your dentist will shape, smooth, and polish it to ensure it fits naturally with your bite. A final check ensures that the filling does not interfere with your ability to chew comfortably.
Most fillings allow you to eat and drink normally soon after your appointment. However, if your mouth is still numb, it’s best to avoid hot foods and drinks until the sensation returns. Some minor sensitivity to temperature and pressure is normal for a few days but should fade quickly.
Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups help keep your fillings—and your entire smile—in top shape. If you ever notice a sharp edge, crack, or discomfort, contact us for a quick assessment.
Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is essential for keeping your dental filling in great shape. Brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist for checkups every six months help extend the life of your filling and prevent future cavities.
Although fillings are durable, they can wear down, loosen, or crack over time, especially if you grind or clench your teeth. If you notice:
A crack or missing piece in the filling
Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure
Contact your dentist right away. An X-ray may be needed to check for leaks or hidden decay beneath the filling.
Fillings typically last 10 years or more, but they do eventually need replacement. Chewing with a damaged filling can worsen the issue, leading to more extensive dental work if left untreated. During your routine exams, your dentist will check your fillings and let you know if any need to be replaced.
Silver Amalgam: $50 – $150 (most common and widely covered by insurance)
Composite (Tooth-Colored): $90 – $250
Gold or Porcelain: $250 – $4,500
Most dental insurance plans cover a significant portion of the cost, especially for silver fillings. However, some plans require a deductible, copay, or additional costs for composite or gold fillings. If you’re unsure about coverage, check with your dentist or insurance provider for details.
