Rebuild Your Smile with Conservative, Durable, and Natural-looking Composite Fillings

Dental fillings are standard procedures used to repair minor tooth damage and fill cavities. Eckland Family Dental, which has two convenient offices in Everett and Redmond, Washington, uses composite fillings as an alternative to amalgam fillings. Dr. Kale Eckland and his team prefer composite fillings because of their aesthetics, durability, and biocompatibility. 

Dental fillings support the remaining tooth structure and help prevent further breakage. When expertly placed, tooth-colored fillings last many years before they are due for replacement. 

How dental fillings are placed

Dental fillings are easy to place, only requiring about 30-45 minutes. Like any dental procedure, the procedure starts with a consultation to examine your tooth. To be safe, the dentist may use dental X-rays to ensure you only need a filling to restore your tooth.

Surface cavities don’t need anesthesia. However, if you have a deep cavity, the dentist will numb your mouth with local anesthetics to ensure you don’t feel pain during treatment. Next, the dentist will gently remove the decayed/damaged portion of the tooth before cleaning the area to remove any traces of harmful bacteria. 

Then, the dentist fills your tooth with composite resin, sculpts it, and uses a special light to harden it. Finally, we’ll polish your filling to blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile, creating a natural appearance that mimics the texture and color of your surrounding teeth.

Benefits of composite fillings

When you have a cavity, only consider a composite filling to restore your smile. Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings offer numerous cosmetic and functional benefits.

Some include.

  • They blend beautifully with natural teeth.
  • Modern materials make them a long-lasting choice.
  • The dentist removes only a small part of the tooth to place the filling.
  • Composite fillings don’t contain any toxic substances.
  • They don’t change in size despite temperature changes.
  • White fillings are versatile in restoring decayed, discolored, or chipped teeth.

Looking after your fillings

Your dental fillings may not last indefinitely, but with proper care, they can last for many years. This maintenance involves caring for your teeth and gums like you usually do.

Maintaining your dental fillings involves.

  • Brushing and flossing your teeth religiously
  • Seeing a dentist every six months
  • Eating dental-friendly foods
  • Avoiding tobacco products as they can discolor your fillings
  • Wearing a nightguard if you brux teeth

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth-Colored Fillings

Are tooth-colored fillings as durable as metal fillings?

Yes! Modern composite fillings are made to be durable and robust. While metal (amalgam) fillings may be slightly more durable in high-pressure areas, tooth-colored fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing excellent strength and stability. With proper care, they can last ten years or longer. Dr. Eckland uses high-quality composite materials to ensure durability while preserving the natural appearance of your smile.

Can a tooth-colored filling be used on any tooth?

Yes, tooth-colored fillings can be used on both front and back teeth. While they are most commonly used for cavities in visible areas, they are also suitable for molars. Advances in composite materials make them strong enough to withstand chewing forces. Dr. Eckland will assess your specific needs and recommend the best type of filling for the location and severity of the decay.

Do tooth-colored fillings stain over time?

Composite fillings are resistant to staining, but they are not completely stain-proof. Over time, frequent exposure to coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can cause some discoloration. Unlike natural teeth, composite material does not respond to whitening treatments. Dr. Eckland recommends good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings to help maintain the appearance of your fillings and overall smile.

How long do tooth-colored fillings last?

Tooth-colored fillings typically last seven to ten years, but they can last even longer with proper care. Their lifespan depends on oral hygiene, diet, and how much wear they endure. Avoiding excessive pressure from teeth grinding and hard foods can help extend their longevity. Dr. Eckland will check your fillings during routine exams and recommend replacement if any signs of wear or deterioration appear.

Is getting a tooth-colored filling painful?

No, getting a filling is a comfortable procedure. Dr. Eckland uses local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during treatment. The process is minimally invasive and typically completed in one visit. After that, you could feel a little sensitive, but this should go away in a few days. To guarantee a proper fit, Dr. Eckland can modify the filling if discomfort continues.

Can tooth-colored fillings be repaired if they chip or wear down?

One of the advantages of composite fillings is that they can be easily repaired. If a filling becomes chipped or worn over time, Dr. Eckland can often add more composite material to restore it without needing to remove the entire filling. This makes tooth-colored fillings more conservative and cost-effective than traditional amalgam fillings, which often require full replacement if damaged.

Do tooth-colored fillings contain any harmful materials?

No, composite fillings are free from mercury and other metals in traditional amalgam fillings. They are made from a safe, biocompatible blend of resin and finely ground glass particles. This makes them an excellent choice for patients who want a more natural-looking, metal-free restoration. Dr. Eckland ensures that all materials used in dental treatments meet high safety and health standards for long-term oral wellness.

Tooth-colored fillings near me

Have trouble with cavities? Call (425) 448-6339 or (425) 249-3830 to schedule an appointment with Eckland Family Dental for composite fillings. Soon, your cavities will become a thing of the past. Bring out the best in your smile with tooth-colored fillings since every tooth is a pillar of your oral health!