Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-Colored Fillings in Farmington, NM

Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Dental Fillings

When tooth decay, cracks, or old amalgam fillings begin to compromise your smile, tooth-colored fillings offer a seamless, safe, and attractive alternative. At Desert Hills Dental Care, home of the top dentist in Farmington, we provide modern composite dental fillings that blend beautifully with your natural tooth color. Whether you’re replacing old silver fillings or treating a newly discovered cavity, our fillings restore both function and appearance.

Unlike silver amalgam fillings or gold fillings, which stand out visually, tooth-colored options match your natural tooth structure, making them ideal for both front and back teeth. With today’s advanced composite resin materials, you can enjoy long-lasting results without compromising aesthetics. Call our dental practice near you today at  505-327-4863 to book your appointment.

young man getting a dental examWhy Choose Desert Hills Dental Care for Fillings?

At Desert Hills Dental Care, we believe dental restorations should do more than just fill cavities—they should restore your confidence. Our team is trained in placing tooth-colored fillings with precision and care, ensuring a comfortable fit and natural appearance. 

We use premium resin composite and glass ionomer fillings, selected for their durability, safety, and aesthetic value. From your first dental exam to your final polish, your comfort and health are always our top priorities. Call  505-327-4863 today to learn more or schedule your consultation in Farmington.

What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings are dental restorations made from composite resin or glass ionomers, designed to mimic the look and feel of your natural tooth. These fillings can treat tooth decay, replace old amalgam fillings, or repair chipped or broken teeth. Because they chemically bond to the tooth structure, they provide excellent strength while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.

Unlike metal fillings, tooth-colored options don’t expand and contract as much with temperature changes, reducing the risk of further decay or cracks. The result is a stronger, more attractive dental filling that supports your long-term oral health.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings offer many benefits compared to traditional silver amalgam or gold fillings:

  • Natural Appearance: The material is matched to your natural tooth color for a flawless finish.
  • Preserves Tooth Structure: Composite materials bond directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy tissue.
  • Safe and Metal-Free: Free from mercury and compatible with proper care for long-term safety.
  • Durability: Modern resin composites and powdered quartz blends are strong enough for chewing surfaces.
  • Versatility: Ideal for front or back teeth, and used in both direct fillings (placed in-office) and indirect fillings (made in a dental laboratory).

Who Should Get Tooth-Colored Fillings?

You may benefit from tooth-colored fillings if:

  • You have a new cavity that needs treatment
  • You want to replace old silver amalgam fillings
  • You have chipped or broken teeth in visible areas
  • You’ve experienced sensitivity near the gum line
  • You want a non-metal option that looks and feels natural

These fillings are suitable for patients of all ages and can be placed in a single visit with local anesthesia. Whether you’re restoring damaged teeth or upgrading old metal fillings, our team will recommend the best filling material for your case. Call  505-327-4863 to discuss your treatment options today.

Middle-aged woman miming taking a picture of herselfThe Composite Filling Procedure

Here’s what to expect during a typical composite filling appointment with our Farmington dentist:

  1. Local Anesthetic: The area is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
  2. Decay Removal: The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
  3. Filling Application: Tooth-colored composite resin is layered into the cavity and shaped to match your natural tooth structure.
  4. Bonding and Curing: A curing light is used to harden the material for a durable finish.
  5. Polishing: The new filling is polished to match the shine and texture of your other teeth.

Types of Tooth-Colored Fillings

At Desert Hills Dental Care, we offer several types of tooth-colored fillings:

  • Composite Fillings: Made from resin composite, excellent for front or back teeth.
  • Glass Ionomer Fillings: Ideal for areas near the gum line or baby teeth; they release fluoride to prevent further decay.
  • Porcelain Fillings (Inlays/Onlays): Fabricated in a dental laboratory and bonded in place, used in larger cavities or indirect fillings.

We help you choose the right option based on the size and location of the cavity, your tooth structure, and cosmetic dentistry goals. Ready to restore your smile? Call  505-327-4863 today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?
Do composite fillings cost more than metal fillings?
Can I replace my old metal fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Is the procedure painful?
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?

Yes, today’s composite restorations are highly durable and can withstand normal chewing forces. While they may wear slightly faster than silver amalgam fillings, they chemically bond to the tooth for added strength. With proper care, they can last over a decade.

Do composite fillings cost more than metal fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings typically cost more than silver fillings, but many patients find the natural appearance and long-term benefits worth the investment. Some dental plans offer partial coverage. We’ll walk you through your options during your visit.

Can I replace my old metal fillings with tooth-colored ones?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to remove metal fillings for aesthetic or safety reasons. We’ll evaluate each damaged portion and recommend the best filling material for your situation.

Is the procedure painful?

No. We use a local anesthetic to numb the area so you’ll feel little to no discomfort. Most patients report that the procedure is quick and easier than expected. Recovery is minimal, and you can return to your day right after.

A Healthier Smile Starts Today

Don’t let old metal fillings or untreated tooth decay hold your smile back. At Desert Hills Dental Care, we offer modern tooth-colored fillings designed to protect and preserve your natural tooth while delivering a smooth, seamless look. Whether you’re filling a new cavity or replacing outdated silver amalgam, we make the process simple, safe, and comfortable.

Call our Farmington, NM office at  505-327-4863 to schedule your appointment and enjoy the benefits of natural-looking dental care.

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