Fillings: Because Cavities Aren’t Going to Fix Themselves
Fillings: Because Cavities Aren’t Going to Fix Themselves
From small cavities to big results, natural, life-like fillings provide a simple solution for maintaining a healthy, happy smile.
"These guys are an amazing team! Always on time, thorough, professional and friendly! All the new technology too. Highly recommend"
Susan D.
An Environment You’ll Love
"I always have a great experience at Open late dentistry. The environment and the infrastructure is great and the doctor is amazing."
Gokul H.
"Had a wonderful experience at the Dentist today. The ease of booking an appointment online and the atmosphere were enough to put me at ease. The Dr and staff were both personable which made the process a breeze. I definitely recommend their services at Open Late Dentistry"
Kristin H.
The cost of tooth-colored (composite) fillings can vary depending on factors like how many fillings are needed, the size and location of the cavity, and your dental insurance coverage. We’ll provide a detailed estimate before starting treatment, and our team is happy to check your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs in advance.
Yes — we offer flexible financing options, including third-party financing provider, to make fillings more affordable and manageable within your budget.
Absolutely! We offer virtual consultations so you can discuss your oral health concerns, explore treatment options, and receive estimates—all from the comfort of your home.
Yes — we offer sedation options such as nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) or oral sedation upon request, to help make your filling appointment as calm and comfortable as possible.
During your visit, we’ll numb the area with local anesthesia, gently remove decay or old filling material, clean the cavity, and restore your tooth with composite resin. The process is efficient, and most fillings are completed in a single visit.
Out-of-network means your dentist doesn’t have a set payment deal with your insurance company. You can still go to them, but your insurance might cover less of the cost, so you’ll pay more than you would with an in-network dentist. Sometimes, depending on your plan, your insurance may not pay anything — in that case, you would pay the full amount yourself.
Tooth-colored fillings are made from a durable composite resin that matches the natural shade of your teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing solution for cavities.
Cavities are bound to happen on teeth with deep grooves or lack of proper oral health care at some point in life. Whether it is genetics, lack of salivary flow, dietary changes throughout life, lack of protective sealants or long periods between dental hygiene cleanings, cavities happen. Most dental situations with these cavities simply require removing the decay and filling in the removed area. In prior decades, dentists would fill your tooth with an amalgamation of different metals. These are lovingly referred to as “Silver Fillings”, however, almost all contain Mercury and other toxins. At Open Late Dentistry, we believe in using only the latest in technology and the highest standard of care, and only place esthetic, tooth-colored composite fillings or ceramic, lab-made, fillings. These are more natural looking, life-like and will resemble the tooth, while remaining strong. These materials are safer and most importantly look much more natural when you are having a conversation with others.
These fillings are used to repair teeth damaged by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. They are also ideal for replacing old silver fillings.
Yes — small chips or cracks can often be repaired using composite bonding techniques, offering both aesthetic improvement and functional restoration.
Watch for signs such as sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, persistent toothache, visible dark spots or holes, and rough or jagged edges on your tooth.
Leaving a cavity untreated can lead to increased decay, pain, infection, and even tooth loss—potentially requiring more complex and costly treatments down the line.
Most likely, yes. Local anesthesia ensures you're comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Sedation is available if extra relaxation is needed.
If decay is more extensive than initially anticipated, we’ll assess whether an inlay, onlay, or crown is needed instead of a filling. Decisions are based on preserving long-term strength and function.
Unlike silver (amalgam) fillings, tooth-colored fillings blend with your natural teeth, are free of mercury, and bond directly to the tooth structure for added strength.
-Tooth-colored composite fillings do not contain mercury or other metals which may cause sensitivity or toxic effects.-Some patients have metal sensitivities.
Signs that a filling may need replacement include cracks, fractures, tooth sensitivity, recurrent decay at the edge of the filling, or a loose or missing filling. Regular dental check-ups help catch these early.
Composite fillings can stain over time, especially from foods and drinks like coffee or tea. Good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can help maintain their appearance.
Yes, composite fillings are made from biocompatible materials that are safe, durable, and free of harmful substances like mercury.
Absolutely! Tooth-colored fillings are an excellent choice for front teeth, as they blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color.
No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Most patients find the process quick and painless.
A desensitizer is a special medication we apply to your tooth to help reduce sensitivity, especially after a filling, crown, or deep cleaning. It works by sealing the tiny tubules in your enamel that can cause discomfort. It's quick, painless, and can make a big difference if you have sensitive teeth. IIII Both Indirect Pulp Capping (IPC) and Desensitizer treatments are used to help protect the tooth and potentially prevent the need for a root canal.
With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can last 7-10 years or more. Regular checkups help ensure their longevity.
Care for them as you would your natural teeth—brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit us for routine cleanings and checkups.
We use high-quality materials, ensure patient comfort, and offer convenient evening and after-school appointments to fit your busy schedule.
If your front tooth filling has come out, try not to panic—but do reach out to us as soon as possible. Avoid biting with that tooth and steer clear of hot, cold, or sugary foods to minimize sensitivity.
We’ll want to evaluate the tooth promptly to determine the best next step. If the area is small and causing sensitivity, placing a larger filling or crown may not always be ideal, as removing more tooth structure can sometimes make the sensitivity worse.
Depending on your comfort and long-term goals, here are a few options we might recommend:
A nightguard, if grinding or clenching may have caused the chip
A pre-determination for a crown, if you’re considering a longer-term solution
Orthodontic aligners, if crowding is contributing to the damage
Desensitizing toothpaste, like Sensodyne, to help relieve discomfort in the meantime
Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment or follow-up—we're happy to help you restore your smile comfortably and safely.
1212 S Preston Rd #130,
Celina, TX 75009, United States
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