Restore Tooth Strength and Stop Decay with Natural-Looking Fillings
Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems, but it’s also one of the most treatable—especially when caught early. At Mesquite Dental, we provide durable, tooth-colored dental fillings in Tucson to stop cavities from spreading and restore your tooth’s strength, function, and appearance.
Our team, led by Dr. Karley Schneider, offers a personalized, conservative approach to restorative dentistry. We use modern techniques and materials to ensure your fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for results that look and feel great.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or minor fractures. During the procedure, we remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with a biocompatible material—usually a composite resin that matches the natural shade of your enamel.
Fillings restore the shape, integrity, and function of the tooth while preventing further decay or structural damage. In some cases, fillings may also be used to repair small chips or worn enamel.
When Is a Dental Filling Needed?
You may need a filling if you have:
- A cavity caused by tooth decay
- A chipped or fractured tooth
- Worn-down enamel from grinding or acid erosion
- Sensitivity when eating sweet, hot, or cold foods
- A visible hole or dark spot on your tooth
Routine dental exams and cleanings help catch cavities early—before they cause pain or require more invasive treatment.
If damage is too extensive for a filling, we may recommend a dental crown instead for full coverage and reinforcement.
Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings
At Mesquite Dental, we use composite resin for most fillings. Unlike metal amalgam, composite fillings are:
- Tooth-colored and virtually invisible
- Bonded directly to your tooth structure for added strength
- Mercury-free and biocompatible
- Better suited for small-to-moderate restorations in visible areas
Composite materials also preserve more of your natural tooth structure during placement, which supports long-term dental health.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Getting a filling is a straightforward, pain-free procedure typically completed in a single visit:
- Diagnosis: We use digital imaging and intraoral cameras to assess decay and determine the size of the cavity.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
- Decay removal: The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is gently removed.
- Filling placement: The tooth is cleaned, and the filling material is layered and cured using a special light.
- Shaping and polishing: We shape the filling to match your natural bite and polish it for a smooth finish.
Most patients return to normal eating and drinking shortly after the procedure, with only minimal sensitivity, if any.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Composite fillings are durable and can last many years with proper care. To maximize the life of your restoration:
- Brush twice daily and floss once per day
- Limit sugary and acidic foods
- Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or hard objects
- Visit us every six months for routine checkups
If you grind your teeth, we may recommend a custom occlusal guard to protect both your natural teeth and restorations.
Related Restorative Services
Some cavities or fractures may require more extensive solutions than a simple filling. We offer:
- Dental crowns for teeth that need full coverage
- Root canals for teeth with deep decay or nerve damage
- Dental bridges and implant restorations for missing teeth
We always take a conservative approach and aim to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Composite fillings can last 7 to 10 years or longer with proper care, but longevity depends on factors like your oral hygiene, bite pressure, and where the filling is placed.
Will a filling hurt?
No. We numb the area completely before treatment, so you’ll feel little to no discomfort during the procedure. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal but short-lived.
Can old metal fillings be replaced with composite?
Yes. We can safely remove old amalgam fillings and replace them with tooth-colored composite for a more aesthetic and biocompatible result.
Is there an alternative if my tooth is too damaged for a filling?
If the cavity is too large or has weakened the tooth significantly, we may recommend a dental crown for added protection and longevity.
Are fillings covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover fillings as part of routine restorative care. Visit our patient info page for details on coverage, financing, and payment options.
Schedule Your Dental Filling Appointment in Tucson
Tooth decay doesn’t improve on its own. If you're experiencing sensitivity, have a chipped tooth, or are due for a dental exam, Mesquite Dental is here to help with expert, natural-looking fillings in a comfortable, caring environment.
Call (520) 380-0132 or request your appointment online to restore your tooth and protect your long-term oral health.