Cavities happen—but thanks to modern dental techniques and materials, treating them is now more comfortable and discreet than ever. If you're scheduled for a dental filling and want to know exactly what to expect, this guide is for you.

At Perk Dental in Manvel, TX, we specialize in composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, offering a natural-looking and durable solution for decayed or damaged teeth. In this article, we’ll walk you through the composite filling procedure step by step, explain its benefits, and answer common questions.

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin material composed of a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth—making them a popular choice for patients who want both function and aesthetics.

They are ideal for:

• Small to medium-sized cavities
  
• Visible areas of the smile
  
• Patients seeking mercury-free alternatives
  
• Cosmetic repairs like chipped or worn teeth
  

Composite Filling Steps: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wondering what actually happens during the procedure? Let’s take a closer look at the composite filling steps used by our skilled team at Perk Dental.

Step 1: Numbing the Area

Before anything else, we’ll ensure you're completely comfortable. A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the procedure—just a little pressure here and there.

⏱️ Time: 5–10 minutes

Step 2: Removing Decay

Once the area is numb, your dentist uses a dental handpiece (drill) or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. We work precisely and carefully to eliminate only the damaged tissue, preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.

⏱️ Time: 10–15 minutes

Step 3: Cleaning the Tooth

After decay removal, we thoroughly clean the cavity to remove any debris or bacteria. This step helps prevent future decay and ensures a clean surface for the filling to bond to.

⏱️ Time: 5 minutes

Step 4: Tooth Preparation

To help the composite material adhere to the tooth, we etch the inner surface of the cavity with a mild acid solution. This creates tiny pores in the enamel and dentin, enhancing the bonding process. A bonding agent is then applied and cured (hardened) using a blue UV light.

⏱️ Time: 5 minutes

Step 5: Placing the Composite Resin

Now it's time to fill the cavity. The composite material is applied in thin layers. After each layer is placed, it's cured using a special light that hardens the material almost instantly.

Your dentist carefully shapes the filling to match the natural contours of your tooth.

⏱️ Time: 10–20 minutes

Step 6: Shaping and Polishing

Once all layers are in place, the filling is shaped and smoothed to ensure a natural feel and bite alignment. We also polish the surface to give it a smooth, tooth-like shine and prevent staining.

⏱️ Time: 5–10 minutes

The Entire Procedure Takes: 30–60 minutes per tooth

You’ll be able to eat, speak, and smile comfortably shortly after the procedure—just avoid chewing on the filled tooth until the numbness wears off completely.

Why Choose Composite Fillings at Perk Dental?

At Perk Dental, we take pride in offering advanced, comfortable, and cosmetic-focused dental care. Our composite fillings are:

✅ Aesthetic – Matches your natural tooth color
✅ Durable – Lasts 5 to 10 years with proper care
✅ Safe – Mercury-free and biocompatible
✅ Minimally Invasive – Requires less removal of healthy tooth structure
✅ Quick – Completed in a single visit

Whether you're dealing with a new cavity or replacing an old metal filling, composite is the smart, modern choice—and we're here to make it seamless.

Aftercare Tips for Composite Fillings

Once your filling is complete, here’s how to take care of it:

• Avoid sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours
• Wait until the numbness wears off before eating
  
• Brush and floss daily to prevent future decay
  
• Avoid excessive grinding or clenching—consider a night guard if needed
  
• Visit us regularly for checkups and cleanings
  
  

If you experience sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, it’s usually temporary. But if it persists beyond a few days, contact us so we can evaluate.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ How long do composite fillings last?

With proper care, composite fillings last 5–10 years or more. They are highly durable for small to medium restorations.

❓ Are composite fillings covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans partially cover composite fillings. However, if you're uninsured, Perk Dental offers affordable pricing and payment options to make your care accessible.

❓ Can I replace my metal fillings with composite?

Yes! Many patients opt to replace silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored composites for a more natural look. Ask us about safe removal and replacement options.