Tooth-Colored Fillings Guide | Tomlinson Dental, Tampa

What is a tooth-colored filling?

A composite filling repairs a cavity or selected damage using tooth-colored resin. It is shaped directly in the prepared tooth and bonded in place. Composite can be used in front and back teeth, depending on the size and position of the repair.

At Tomlinson Dental, we assess the damaged area and explain whether a filling is sufficient. The aim is a repair that suits the tooth and your bite, while keeping sound tooth structure where possible.

Sources: ADA: Tooth-colored fillings

How is a composite filling placed?

Assess the tooth

The examination, symptoms, and any necessary X-rays help identify decay and its extent. We discuss the planned repair and whether local anesthesia is needed.

Prepare and fill

Decay and damaged material are removed as appropriate. The area is kept clean and dry while the composite is bonded and hardened with a curing light.

Check the bite

The filling is shaped and polished. Tell us if it feels high or uncomfortable when you bite so it can be checked.

Sources: ADA: Tooth-colored fillings

Composite and amalgam fillings

Consideration	Composite	Amalgam
Appearance	Tooth-colored resin	Metallic appearance
Placement	Requires good moisture control for bonding	May suit situations where moisture control is difficult
Choosing a material	Size, location, bite, and appearance matter	Health history and FDA guidance also matter

An intact amalgam filling does not automatically need replacement. The FDA advises against removing sound amalgam solely to prevent disease. We can assess wear, decay, symptoms, and your preferences before discussing a replacement.

Sources: ADA: Tooth-colored fillings · FDA: Amalgam fillings

What affects filling costs?

The number of surfaces involved, the material, and the complexity of the repair affect the fee. A deep cavity may need a different treatment plan from a small one.

Ask what the examination has shown, what treatment is included, and whether the plan may change if more extensive damage is found.

Payment and dental benefits

We accept cash and cards. Third-party financing is available, subject to approval.

Although we are not contracted with any dental insurance company, we gladly help submit claims so your provider can reimburse you directly. Payment is due in full at the time of service; we do not provide insurance estimates.

Review insurance and payment options

When is a filling not enough?

Loss of tooth support

A large cavity, fracture, or failing restoration may leave too little sound tooth for a filling alone. An onlay or crown may provide more coverage.

A problem inside the tooth

If the pulp is inflamed or infected, a filling alone may not address it. Further assessment can establish whether root canal treatment or another option is needed.

Sources: ADA: Crowns · AAE: Root canal treatment

Questions after a filling

Yes. Decay can develop around a filling or elsewhere on the tooth. Fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, and regular dental visits remain important.

Sources: ADA: Tooth-colored fillings

Contact us if sensitivity persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain on biting. The bite and the tooth may need reassessment. Tell us what triggers it and how long it lasts.

No. Condition and clinical need matter. Replacing a sound filling removes additional tooth structure; discuss the benefits and risks before choosing replacement.

Sources: FDA: Amalgam fillings

No filling lasts indefinitely. The size of the repair, bite forces, decay risk, and home care affect maintenance needs. Checkups help identify problems that may need attention.

Sources: ADA: Tooth-colored fillings