The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the type of material used and how well you care for your teeth. Tooth-colored fillings (composite resin) often last 7–10 years, while stronger materials like porcelain or gold can last even longer. Good brushing, flossing, and regular checkups can extend the life of your filling and help you avoid future decay around the tooth.

The cost of a filling can vary based on the size of the cavity, the material used, and whether you have dental insurance. On average, most fillings range from $100 to $300 per tooth with insurance helping cover part of the cost. During your visit, we’ll review your treatment plan and provide a clear breakdown so there are no surprises.

A cavity filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth damaged by decay. The dentist carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans the area, and then fills the space with a durable material. This restores the tooth’s strength, protects against further damage, and relieves any pain or sensitivity caused by the cavity.

A cavity filling is actually a very routine dental procedure — one of the most common treatments performed. It’s not considered serious, but it is important. Leaving a cavity untreated can allow decay to spread deeper, eventually leading to infections, root canals, or even tooth loss. Getting a filling early helps you avoid those bigger problems and keeps your smile healthy.

Most fillings can be completed in less than an hour, often in a single visit. The actual drilling and filling portion only takes a few minutes. What takes longer is making sure you’re comfortable, your tooth is fully numb, and your bite feels natural once the filling is placed.

If a cavity isn’t treated, the decay continues to spread deeper into the tooth. This can lead to more pain, infection, or even tooth loss. What starts as a simple filling can turn into the need for a crown, root canal, or extraction down the road. Getting a filling early saves you time, money, and discomfort.

Yes, fillings can sometimes loosen or fall out over time, especially if the tooth is under a lot of pressure from chewing or teeth grinding. If this happens, it’s important to see your dentist quickly to replace it and protect the tooth. Regular checkups allow us to monitor your fillings and catch any issues early before they become bigger problems.

Yes, modern cavity fillings are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. Instead of the old silver fillings that could be noticeable when you smiled, most dentists now use tooth-colored composite materials. These fillings match the shade of your tooth, so no one will be able to tell you’ve had dental work done. They don’t just look good either — they’re durable and bond directly to the tooth, giving you both strength and a natural appearance.