Tooth Colored fillings

What Are Tooth Colored Fillings?

Tooth colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a modern and highly aesthetic solution for restoring teeth affected by cavities, cracks, or minor damage. Made of a durable resin material that can be precisely color-matched to your natural tooth enamel, these fillings blend seamlessly with your smile and restore both function and appearance.

Unlike traditional metal (amalgam) fillings, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, preserving more of your natural tooth and reducing the risk of future fractures. At Chips Dental Associates, we use tooth colored fillings as part of our commitment to conservative, long-lasting, and beautiful dental care.

When Is a Tooth Colored Filling Recommended?

Tooth colored fillings are an excellent option for a wide range of dental issues, including:

  • Cavities caused by tooth decay
  • Minor chips or cracks in the enamel
  • Worn-down areas from grinding or acid erosion
  • Replacing outdated or deteriorating metal fillings
  • Patients who want a more natural, metal-free solution

We assess each case individually and may recommend a composite filling as part of your restorative dental treatment plan.

Advantages of Composite Fillings at Chips Dental Associates

Choosing Chips Dental Associates for your tooth colored fillings means you benefit from decades of trusted care combined with modern materials and technology. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Custom color matching to ensure the filling looks natural and blends with your teeth
  • Mercury-free, biocompatible materials that are safe and durable
  • In-house digital technology for efficient placement and accuracy
  • Conservative treatment that preserves more of your healthy tooth
  • Often completed in a single visit for your convenience

Tooth colored fillings can also be part of a full cosmetic dentistry or smile makeover plan.

What to Expect During Your Filling Appointment

Your comfort and care are our top priorities during any restorative procedure. Here’s what a typical composite filling visit involves:

  1. Digital X-rays and a thorough exam to detect decay or damage
  2. Numbing the area to ensure a pain-free experience
  3. Removing the decay and cleaning the affected tooth
  4. Applying the composite resin, shaped and matched to your tooth color
  5. Curing the material with a special light for instant hardening
  6. Final shaping and polishing to ensure a natural look and proper bite

You can return to your normal activities shortly after the appointment.

Are Tooth Colored Fillings Right for You?

Composite fillings are ideal for:

  • Adults seeking discreet, tooth-colored restorations
  • Children needing cavity treatment that doesn’t include metal
  • Patients with allergies or sensitivities to amalgam
  • Anyone looking to replace silver fillings with a more natural option

During your exam, we’ll help you decide whether a tooth colored filling or an alternative restoration like a crown is the best option. We also offer comprehensive family dentistry and children’s dental care for all ages.

Serving Gibsonia & Pittsburgh with Personalized Dental Care

Chips Dental Associates proudly provides composite fillings and complete general dentistry at both of our convenient office locations:

Gibsonia Location

5615 William Flynn Highway
Gibsonia, PA 15044
Phone: (724) 443-5710

Pittsburgh Location

100 McKnight Park Drive, Suite 106
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Phone: (412) 364-7144

Led by Dr. Timothy Chips, D.M.D., our team brings decades of combined experience and advanced training in both cosmetic and restorative procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do tooth colored fillings last?

With proper care, composite fillings can last 7 to 10 years or more. Avoiding hard foods and maintaining good oral hygiene helps extend their lifespan.

Are composite fillings safe?

Yes. They are made of biocompatible, mercury-free resin materials and are safe for both adults and children.

Do tooth colored fillings stain?

While composite resin is resistant to staining, habits like smoking or drinking coffee can cause slight discoloration over time. Regular cleanings help maintain their appearance.

Is it painful to get a filling?

Most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. We use local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I replace old silver fillings with composite ones?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to upgrade to composite for aesthetic reasons. We can evaluate your current fillings and recommend a treatment plan.

Schedule a Tooth Colored Filling Appointment

Whether you’re dealing with a new cavity or ready to replace an old metal filling, Chips Dental Associates offers trusted, patient-focused care in Gibsonia and Pittsburgh. Schedule your appointment today at the location most convenient for you:

We’re here to restore your smile with comfort, function, and aesthetics in mind.