Repair What's There
Fillings & Restorations
Modern tooth-colored fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural smile — and last for years when cared for well.
Reviewed by our dentists — Updated April 2026
When do you need a filling?
Fillings are used to repair teeth damaged by decay (cavities), small fractures, or wear. They're typically recommended when a cavity is caught early — before it has progressed to needing a crown, root canal, or extraction.
Tooth-colored composite fillings
We exclusively use modern composite (tooth-colored) filling materials, shade-matched to your natural enamel so they blend in seamlessly. No metal. No silver. Just a repair that looks — and feels — like your original tooth.
Why composite over old-school amalgam?
- Virtually invisible in the finished tooth
- Bonds directly to the tooth structure, strengthening it
- Requires less tooth removal than metal fillings
- No mercury concerns for patients who prefer to avoid it
What a filling appointment looks like
- We'll numb the area so you don't feel a thing.
- The decayed tooth structure is gently removed and the area is cleaned.
- Composite material is placed in thin layers and cured with a special light to harden it.
- Your bite is carefully checked and adjusted so the filling feels natural.
- You're out the door — usually in under an hour for a single filling.
After your filling
Some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal for a few days. If your bite feels off once the numbness wears off, let us know — we can adjust it in a few minutes. If sensitivity lasts more than a couple of weeks, call us.
When a filling isn't enough
Larger or deeper decay may need an inlay or onlay, or even a full crownto rebuild the tooth properly. We'll always explain why if we recommend one over the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tooth-colored fillings last as long as silver fillings?+
Modern composite fillings are durable and long-lasting. While amalgam has a slight edge in longevity for very large restorations, composite bonds directly to the tooth structure, often strengthening it. For most cavities, composite is the better choice.
Does getting a filling hurt?+
We numb the area completely before we start, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure. Most patients are surprised at how comfortable it is. A single filling is typically done in under an hour.
How long does a filling last?+
With proper oral hygiene and regular checkups, a composite filling can last 7 to 15 years or more. We check your fillings at every routine visit at Roanoke Dental Center and let you know if any need attention.
Is it normal for a new filling to be sensitive?+
Yes. Some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal for a few days after a filling. If your bite feels off once the numbness wears off, or if sensitivity lasts more than a couple of weeks, call us and we'll adjust it.
Can you replace my old silver fillings with tooth-colored ones?+
Yes. If your existing amalgam fillings are worn, cracked, or you simply prefer a metal-free smile, we can replace them with modern composite restorations that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
When is a filling not enough for a damaged tooth?+
If the decay or damage is too large for a filling to hold, we may recommend an inlay, onlay, or crown instead. We'll always explain why and walk you through your options before starting any treatment.
★ When You're Ready
Come see for yourself.
Take your time choosing the office that fits.
Pick the Cave Spring office that's closer to you. Appointment scheduling is open 24/7 by phone or online — clinical visits are Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM at both offices.
Visit Electric Rd
2660 Electric Rd Suite A
Visit Brambleton Ave
4907 Brambleton Ave
Or call the front desk