Tooth-Colored Fillings in Owasso, OK
When a cavity or small crack weakens a tooth, a filling restores its strength and stops further damage. At Dental Solutions, Dr. Mark Curtis uses composite fillings, a tooth-colored blend of plastic and glass that bonds directly to your tooth and matches its natural shade. Composite fillings repair decay discreetly and can also be used to improve the look of discolored or slightly misshapen teeth.
Book OnlineSigns You May Need a Filling
Cavities don’t always cause pain in their early stages, which is why regular cleanings and exams are so important. Common signs you may need a filling include:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Pain or discomfort when biting down
- A visible hole, dark spot, or rough area on a tooth
- Food frequently getting stuck between certain teeth
- A chipped tooth or a cracked or worn-out older filling
We often find cavities before you notice them using digital X-rays and our intraoral camera.
The Filling Procedure
Getting a filling is quick and comfortable. Dr. Curtis numbs the area, gently removes the decayed portion of the tooth, and cleans the space. The composite material is then applied in thin layers, each hardened with a special curing light. Finally, the filling is shaped and polished so it blends seamlessly with your tooth and feels natural when you bite.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
- Natural, tooth-colored appearance with no metal visible
- Bonds directly to the tooth, helping support its structure
- Often requires removing less healthy tooth structure
- Can be used on front and back teeth
When a Filling Isn’t Enough
If decay is very large or a tooth is badly cracked, a dental crown may be needed for added protection. If decay reaches the nerve, a root canal may be required. For purely cosmetic repairs, dental bonding uses a similar material.
Call (918) 272-5387 to schedule an appointment if you think you may have a cavity.
Dental Fillings FAQs
What are composite fillings made of?
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored mixture of plastic resin and fine glass particles.
Does getting a filling hurt?
No. The area is numbed before treatment, so most patients feel only slight pressure during the procedure.
How long does a filling take?
Most fillings take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and number of cavities.
How long do composite fillings last?
With good care, composite fillings typically last 5 to 10 years or longer.
Can I eat after getting a filling?
Composite fillings harden immediately, but it’s best to wait until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
Can old metal fillings be replaced?
Yes. Older amalgam fillings can be replaced with tooth-colored composite fillings when they are worn, cracked, or if you prefer a more natural look.
What happens if I don’t fill a cavity?
Untreated cavities grow larger and can reach the nerve, leading to pain, infection, and the need for a root canal or extraction.