The short answer
A tooth-colored filling repairs a cavity by removing decay and bonding a composite resin that matches your natural tooth shade. At Pacific Dental Group in Montebello, most fillings are completed in a single 30–60 minute visit with local anesthetic. Composite is mercury-free and bonds to the tooth, preserving more healthy structure than older silver fillings.
- Time
- 30–60 minutes per visit
- Material
- Mercury-free composite resin
- Lifespan
- 7–10+ years with good care
- Insurance
- Usually covered 70–80%
Who tooth-colored fillings is right for
- Small to medium cavities found at a checkup
- Sensitivity to sweets, hot or cold
- Old silver fillings that are cracked or leaking
- Chipped edges that catch floss
What to expect, step by step
Numb
A small amount of local anesthetic keeps you comfortable.
Remove decay
Only the damaged part of the tooth is removed.
Bond & layer
Composite is shade-matched and layered into the tooth.
Cure & polish
A blue light hardens each layer; we shape and polish your bite.
Why choose composite over silver fillings?
Composite resin bonds directly to enamel, so less healthy tooth needs to be removed. It is also mercury-free and invisible when you smile or laugh.
Silver amalgam is still durable, but it expands and contracts with temperature and can crack teeth over time. Many patients replace old silver fillings one at a time as they wear out.
What if the cavity is too big for a filling?
If decay covers more than about half of the chewing surface, an inlay, onlay or crown may protect the tooth better. Dr. Shahinyan always recommends the most conservative option that will last.
Composite vs. silver amalgam
| Factor | Composite (tooth-colored) | Silver amalgam |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Matches your tooth | Dark silver |
| Tooth removed | Minimal | More, for retention |
| Contains mercury | No | Yes |
| Bonds to tooth | Yes | No |
Tooth-Colored Fillings cost in Montebello
Most PPO plans cover fillings at 70–80% after deductible, and Denti-Cal covers medically necessary fillings. Self-pay patients receive a written quote at the exam.
Most major PPO plans and Denti-Cal accepted. Cash and card patients welcome, with financing for qualifying patients. See insurance & financing.
Tooth-Colored Fillings FAQs
Does getting a filling hurt?
With local anesthetic, you should feel pressure but not pain. Mild sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal.
Can I eat right after a composite filling?
Yes. Composite is fully hardened before you leave. Wait until numbness wears off so you don’t bite your cheek.
Should I replace my old silver fillings?
Only if they are cracked, leaking or decayed underneath. We will check them at your exam and let you know.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
With good brushing, flossing and checkups, composite fillings commonly last 7–10 years or longer.
Can kids get tooth-colored fillings?
Yes. We place composite fillings on baby and permanent teeth.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lina Shahinyan, DDS, MS· Source: ADA MouthHealthy — Fillings
