Dental Fillings
Stop decay. Restore your tooth.
2 min read
A dental filling in Richmond, TX repairs the part of a tooth lost to decay or fracture. At Mega Dental, we clean out the decay and fill the space with a tooth-colored composite resin that matches your natural enamel — so your restoration is virtually invisible.
- Reverses decay and prevents further damage
- Tooth-colored composite matches your enamel
- Bonds to the tooth for added strength
- Usually completed in a single visit
Overview
A dental filling replaces part of a tooth lost due to decay or fracture. At Mega Dental, we clean out the decayed portion and fill the resulting space with a composite resin that matches the color of your natural tooth enamel. This material can also be used for cosmetic purposes to change a tooth's size, shape, and color. The restoration can be simple or may require some tooth surface preparation to ensure good retention and a lasting result.
Amalgam fillings
Amalgam (silver) fillings have been used for many years. A mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper, they're durable, long-lasting, and less expensive. Their dark color makes them more noticeable, and while some have concerns about mercury, they are considered safe by reputable dental associations.
Composite fillings
Composite fillings are made of a tooth-colored resin matched to your natural enamel. They bond directly to the tooth, which helps strengthen it and requires less removal of healthy structure. They're an excellent choice for small to medium cavities in visible areas, though they may need replacement over time.
Glass ionomer fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are a mixture of acrylic and glass powders that release fluoride to help prevent further decay. They're often used for small cavities in areas with low biting forces, such as baby teeth or non-load-bearing surfaces. They have a tooth-colored appearance but are less durable than composite or ceramic.
Gold fillings
Gold fillings, made from a gold alloy, are highly durable and long-lasting. Custom-made in a dental laboratory, they require multiple visits and withstand heavy biting forces. They're well-tolerated by gum tissues but are more expensive and have a distinct gold color that may not be preferred for visible areas.
The benefits of dental fillings
A filling reverses the damage to your tooth and prevents further complications. Once the decayed area is filled, the tooth no longer feels sensitivity to hot and cold. The restoration is quick — usually completed in a single visit — and with proper home care, it can stay healthy for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are silver amalgam fillings safe?
- Amalgam fillings are considered safe by major dental associations and have been used for over a century. Many patients prefer tooth-colored composite for its appearance, and we're happy to discuss which option is best for you.
- How long do fillings last?
- With good home care and regular checkups, composite fillings typically last 7–10 years and amalgam fillings can last longer. We monitor your fillings at every exam and let you know when it's time to replace one.
- Will getting a filling hurt?
- We numb the area, so the procedure is comfortable. Some sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal and usually fades on its own.