Tooth-Colored Fillings in Winslow, AZ
Cavities filled with composite that matches your natural tooth — strong, sealed, and invisible when you smile.
Fillings That Look Like Your Teeth
Why Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored composite is bonded directly to your tooth, which means we can preserve more of the healthy structure than older filling materials required. The result is a filling that's invisible in your smile, seals against decay, and feels like a natural tooth. We don't place silver fillings.
What Happens at Your Appointment
We numb the area thoroughly — Dr. Gardner is known for being good at this — then gently remove the decay. The composite is shaped, hardened with a special light, and polished smooth. Most fillings take 30 to 45 minutes per tooth. You can eat as soon as the numbness wears off.
When a Filling Isn't Enough
If a cavity has gone deeper or wider than a filling can handle, you may need an inlay or onlay or a crown. Dr. Gardner will tell you straight which option fits your tooth — including, when possible, the conservative path of watching a small spot and treating it later.
Common Questions
What is a tooth-colored filling?
A tooth-colored filling is a composite resin material bonded into a cavity to restore the tooth. At Winslow Dental, this is the only kind of filling we place — they're strong, sealed, and invisible against your natural tooth color. Old silver fillings can also be replaced with composite if you'd prefer.
How much does a filling cost in Winslow, AZ?
Filling cost depends on the size of the cavity and how many surfaces of the tooth are involved. We'll give you the price before we start and explain your insurance coverage. Most plans cover composite fillings — see Finances & Insurance.
Do fillings hurt?
The procedure itself shouldn't hurt — you'll be fully numb. Some patients have mild sensitivity to cold or pressure for a few days after, especially for deeper fillings. That usually goes away on its own within a week or two.
How long does a filling appointment take?
Most fillings take 30 to 45 minutes per tooth from start to finish, including numbing time. We can often do multiple fillings in one visit if you'd rather get everything done at once — just ask when you book.
Quality, Affordable Dentist in Winslow, AZ
- Emergency Dental Care
- Same Day Crowns
- Braces
- Caring Team
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a tooth-colored filling last?
With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, composite fillings typically last 7–10 years or longer. Larger fillings may eventually need to be replaced or upgraded to an inlay, onlay, or crown — Dr. Gardner will let you know if he sees signs of wear at your checkups.
Can I have my old silver fillings replaced?
Yes. We can replace old silver (amalgam) fillings with tooth-colored composite for cosmetic reasons or if the original filling is failing. Just let us know it's something you'd like to discuss.
Will I need anything besides a filling?
Most cavities need just a filling. If decay has reached the nerve, you may need a root canal and a crown instead. Dr. Gardner will evaluate and tell you straight what your tooth actually needs.
