Introduction

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, but thanks to modern dentistry, fixing them no longer means compromising your smile. Traditional silver fillings may still be effective, but they’re not always aesthetically pleasing. That’s where tooth-colored fillings come in.

At Family Dental of Pelham, we offer durable and natural-looking dental fillings designed to blend seamlessly with your teeth. Whether it’s a new cavity or a replacement for old amalgam fillings, we’ve got a solution that keeps your smile both functional and beautiful.

What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Also known as composite fillings, tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of tooth-colored resin and finely ground glass particles. They’re designed to mimic the natural shade of your teeth, making them virtually invisible once applied.

Unlike metal fillings, composite resin bonds directly to the tooth structure, allowing for a more conservative restoration that preserves more of your natural tooth.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings

• Aesthetic Appeal: Blends naturally with your tooth color
• Mercury-Free: A safer, more biocompatible alternative to metal
• Strong Bonding: Supports and strengthens the tooth structure
• Minimally Invasive: Less drilling is required compared to amalgam fillings

When Do You Need a Filling?

Cavities aren’t always painful—early signs can be subtle. You may need a filling if you notice:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Visible pits or holes in teeth
• Discoloration or dark spots
• Pain while chewing or biting

Routine dental cleanings and exams can help detect cavities early before they worsen.

The Tooth-Colored Filling Procedure

1. A dentist numbs the area for comfort
2. A decayed portion is gently removed
3. The tooth is cleaned and dried
4. Composite resin is applied in layers and hardened using a special curing light
5. The filling is shaped and polished for a smooth, natural finish

For more extensive decay or damage, a dental crown may be recommended to fully restore function and aesthetics.

Why Choose Family Dental of Pelham?

Our team uses advanced materials and techniques to ensure every restoration is long-lasting and perfectly matched to your natural smile. Whether it’s your first filling or a cosmetic upgrade, we make the process comfortable and efficient.

We also take time to educate our patients on proper oral hygiene habits to prevent future cavities and maintain overall oral health.

FAQs

How long do tooth-colored fillings last?

With proper care, they can last 7–10 years or more.

Are composite fillings as strong as silver ones?

Yes. Modern materials make composite fillings both durable and aesthetically superior.

Is the procedure painful?

No. We use local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience.

Can I eat normally after getting a filling?

Yes, but we recommend waiting a couple of hours before chewing on the treated side.

Can old silver fillings be replaced with composite ones?

Absolutely. We can safely remove old amalgam fillings and replace them with natural-looking alternatives.

Conclusion

Tooth-colored fillings offer a discreet, durable way to restore decayed or damaged teeth. At Family Dental of Pelham, we combine aesthetics with functionality to give you a healthier, more confident smile.

If you’re experiencing tooth discomfort or want to replace old metal fillings, book your consultation today and let us help you rediscover your smile!