Tooth-Colored Fillings in Totowa, NJ
Cavities and small cracks are among the most common dental problems, and treating them early keeps them from turning into bigger issues. At Dental Arts of Totowa, we use composite fillings, a tooth-colored mixture of plastic and glass, to restore decayed teeth with natural-looking results. Patients in Totowa, NJ can repair their teeth without the dark, metallic look of traditional silver fillings.
Why Choose Composite Fillings?
Composite resin bonds directly to your tooth and is shaded to match your natural enamel. Benefits include:
- A natural appearance that blends with your smile
- More conservative preparation, preserving healthy tooth structure
- A strong bond that helps support the remaining tooth
- No mercury content
- Versatility for repairing chips, cracks, and worn areas
Fillings for Cosmetic Improvements
Composite material isn’t only for cavities. It can also be used to fix minor discoloration, reshape small chips, or improve the shape of irregular teeth. For larger cosmetic changes, explore porcelain veneers or teeth whitening.
The Filling Process
After numbing the area, Dr. Zoya Mitelberg removes the decayed portion of the tooth and cleans the space. The composite is applied in thin layers, and each layer is hardened with a special curing light. Finally, the filling is shaped and polished so it feels smooth and fits your bite. Most fillings are completed in a single visit.
Signs You May Need a Filling
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A visible hole, dark spot, or rough edge on a tooth
- Food frequently getting caught between certain teeth
Many cavities have no symptoms at first, which is why routine cleanings and exams and digital X-rays are so important. When decay is too extensive for a filling, a porcelain crown or root canal may be recommended. Parents can learn about cavities and fillings for children on our pediatric page.
Dental Fillings FAQs
What are composite fillings made of?
Composite fillings are made of a tooth-colored mixture of plastic and glass that bonds to your tooth.
Do fillings hurt?
We numb the area before treatment, so most patients feel little or no discomfort.
How long do composite fillings last?
With good care, composite fillings typically last many years. Regular checkups help us monitor their condition.
Can I eat after getting a filling?
Composite fillings harden immediately with a curing light, but wait until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
Can old silver fillings be replaced?
Yes. Worn or failing amalgam fillings can often be replaced with tooth-colored composite.
What happens if I don’t fill a cavity?
Untreated decay can spread deeper into the tooth, causing pain and infection that may require a root canal or extraction.
Repair Your Smile Naturally
Think you may have a cavity? Call Dental Arts of Totowa at (973) 942-3233 or request an appointment online.