Tooth-Colored Fillings in Southwest Houston
Tooth decay is common — but with early treatment, it’s easy to stop it in its tracks. At Griffith Dental Associates, we restore cavities with tooth-colored composite fillings that blend beautifully with your natural teeth. These fillings are durable, safe, and mercury-free, providing long-lasting results that protect your oral health and appearance.
Located in Fondren Southwest, our office serves patients from Sharpstown, Bellaire, Gulfton, and surrounding areas of Southwest Houston. We take a gentle, wellness-focused approach to restorative care that supports both comfort and confidence.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings are made of composite resin — a strong, biocompatible material that’s bonded directly to the tooth. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, which can darken over time, composite fillings match the shade of your enamel and are virtually invisible when you smile.
Benefits of composite fillings include:
- A natural appearance that blends with your teeth
- No metal or mercury
- Less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to traditional fillings
- Strong bonding to the tooth for added protection
- Reduced sensitivity and better long-term wear
Tooth-colored fillings are often placed after we remove decay, replace old metal fillings, or repair small chips or cracks.
Learn how fillings fit into our broader care philosophy by visiting our Restorative Dentistry page.
When Is a Filling Needed?
You may need a dental filling if:
- You have a cavity or visible decay
- You feel sensitivity to cold, heat, or sweets
- There is a small chip or crack in the tooth
- An old filling is damaged, leaking, or has fallen out
During your routine exam, we’ll check for any signs of tooth decay and recommend treatment before the problem becomes more advanced. In some cases, patients who delay treatment may require a crown or inlay/onlay instead of a simple filling.
What to Expect During Treatment
The process of placing a composite filling is quick and comfortable. Here’s how it works:
- Numbing – We apply local anesthesia to ensure the area is fully numb.
- Decay removal – Damaged tissue is carefully removed, and the area is cleaned.
- Filling placement – Composite resin is applied in layers, shaped, and cured with a special light.
- Polishing and adjustment – The filling is smoothed and adjusted to ensure a perfect bite and natural feel.
Most fillings are completed in just one visit, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
We focus on prevention, whole-person wellness, and long-term relationships. Our care is designed to support not just oral health, but overall well-being.
Still have questions?
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, composite fillings can last 7 to 10 years or more. Their longevity also depends on the location and size of the filling.
Do composite fillings stain?
They are stain-resistant but not stain-proof. Avoiding excessive coffee, tea, or tobacco can help maintain their appearance over time.
Are composite fillings better than silver fillings?
Yes, in most cases. Composite fillings preserve more natural tooth structure, provide a better seal, and offer improved aesthetics. They also eliminate concerns associated with mercury-containing amalgam.
Is getting a filling painful?
No. The area is thoroughly numbed before treatment, and we take extra steps to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure.
Are tooth-colored fillings covered by insurance?
Most PPO dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, especially for front teeth. Our team will verify your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.
Schedule a Visit for a Tooth-Colored Filling
If you have a cavity or need to replace an old metal filling, we’re here to help. At Griffith Dental Associates, we provide safe, natural-looking restorations that support your health and smile.
Call our office at (713) 523-1666 or request an appointment online. We proudly serve Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Bellaire, and surrounding communities in Southwest Houston.