Dental Fillings at
Delta Park Dental
When tooth decay strikes, dental fillings provide an effective solution to restore your tooth and prevent further damage.
At Delta Park Dental, we offer comprehensive dental filling services using various filling materials to address cavities and preserve your natural teeth. Our experienced team ensures each dental filling procedure is comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing to maintain your beautiful smile.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth damaged by decay or minor fractures. When decay-causing bacteria create a cavity in your tooth enamel, a dental filling materials helps restore the tooth structure after the decayed portion is removed. Fillings not only stop the progression of tooth decay but also strengthen the damaged tooth, preventing further decay and potential complications.
Types of Dental Filling Materials

Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver dental amalgam fillings, have been used for over a century and consist of a mixture of metals including silver, tin, copper, and mercury mixed with other metals. The American Dental Association and numerous public health agencies have confirmed the safety of dental amalgam for most patients. These silver fillings are particularly durable and cost-effective, making them suitable for back teeth where chewing forces are greatest.
Advantages of Amalgam Restorations:
- Exceptional durability (often lasting 15+ years)
- Strength to withstand significant biting forces
- Cost-effectiveness compared to other materials
- Rapid placement procedure
Considerations:
Poor aesthetics (silver appearance)
Potential for galvanic shock when in contact with other metals
Some patients may have concerns about mercury content
May require more tooth removal than some alternatives
Gold Fillings
Cast gold dental fillings that are custom-made in a dental laboratory and then cemented into place. While less common due to cost, gold fillings offer exceptional durability and are well-tolerated by gum tissues.

Advantages
Exceptional longevity (often 20+ years)
Highly durable and wear-resistant
Non-corrosive properties
Gentle on opposing teeth

Considerations
Significantly higher cost than other options
Multiple appointments required
Gold color may not be aesthetically preferred by many patients
Potential for galvanic shock when placed near amalgam fillings

Composite Fillings
Composite fillings, also called tooth-colored fillings or just composite fillings or resin fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. These composite materials can be precisely matched to your natural tooth color, making them virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth structure.
Advantages of Composite Restorations:
Excellent aesthetics, especially for front teeth
Bonds directly to tooth structure, requiring less drilling
Can repair chipped teeth and other minor damage
Free from mercury and metal components
Considerations:
- Generally more expensive than amalgam
- May not last as long as amalgam restorations in some cases
- Slightly longer placement time
- May be more susceptible to staining over time
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain cavity fillings, also called inlays or inlays, are custom-made in a laboratory and bonded to the tooth. These ceramic fillings offer the most natural-looking appearance and resist staining.
Advantages
Exceptional aesthetics that mimic natural teeth
Highly stain-resistant
Excellent durability for moderate to large restorations
Conservative tooth preparation compared to crowns
Considerations
Higher cost than direct fillings
Requires multiple appointments
May wear opposing teeth more than other materials
More brittle than composite or amalgam
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made from acrylic and a specific type of glass ionomer material. These fillings release fluoride, which can help protect against further decay.
Advantages:
Releases fluoride to help prevent recurrent decay
Bonds directly to tooth structure
Suitable for baby teeth and certain non-load-bearing areas
Good option for fillings below the gum line
Considerations:
Less durable than other materials
Limited aesthetic properties
Primarily used for temporary fillings or in specific situations

Why Choose Delta Park Dental for Your Dental Fillings

Our experienced dentists have extensive training in placing all types of dental restorations, ensuring optimal outcomes for every patient. We take pride in our meticulous approach to preserving healthy tooth structure while effectively addressing decay.
We understand that dental anxiety is common, especially when addressing decay. From the moment you sit in our dental chair, our team works diligently to ensure your comfort through gentle techniques, effective anesthesia, and a calming environment.
Our practice features the latest dental technology to enhance the quality and comfort of your filling procedure. From digital imaging that minimizes radiation exposure to precision instruments that allow for more conservative tooth preparation, we leverage innovation to improve your experience.
Unlike some practices limited to just one or two filling materials, Delta Park Dental offers the full spectrum of options—from traditional amalgam to advanced ceramic fillings, gold inlays, and other composite materials and resin. This allows us to recommend the ideal solution based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Beyond simply treating existing cavities, we partner with you to prevent further decay through personalized oral hygiene guidance, preventive treatments, and regular monitoring. Our goal is to help you maintain your natural smile for life.
The Dental Filling Procedure
Initial Examination
Your dentist and journey to treating tooth decay begins with a comprehensive examination. Our dentist will evaluate your teeth, possibly using X-rays to determine the extent of decay and the most appropriate type of filling.
Preparation Phase
Before placing a filling, we’ll ensure your comfort by administering a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once you’re comfortable, our dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth using specialized instruments, thoroughly cleaning the area to eliminate any decay-causing bacteria.
Filling Placement
The specific type of filling and procedure varies depending on the restorative material chosen:
For Direct Fillings (Amalgam and Composite)
The material is placed directly into the prepared cavity
With composite resin fillings, the material is applied in layers and hardened with a special light
The filling is shaped to match your natural bite
For Indirect Fillings (Gold, Porcelain)
An impression of your prepared tooth is taken
A temporary filling is placed while your indirect restoration is created in a dental laboratory
In a second appointment, the final restoration is bonded to your tooth
Finishing Process
Once placed, your filling is carefully shaped and polished to ensure proper bite alignment with other teeth and a smooth, comfortable feel between front teeth.
When Are Dental Fillings Needed?
To restore tooth cavities caused by decay
To repair minor fractures or worn teeth
To replace old, failing fillings
To address teeth with enamel defects
Following root canal therapy before a crown is placed
To treat sensitive areas near the gum line
To restore permanent teeth affected by minor trauma

Best Services
Crowns
Protect and restore teeth with durable, natural-looking crowns for strength and a perfect smile.
Emergency Dentistry
Need urgent dental care? Our experts ensure prompt emergency treatment when you need it most.
Root Canal Therapy
Our skilled dentists provide comfortable, efficient root canal therapy to restore your smile.
Clear Aligners
Want straighter teeth? Our clear aligners help you achieve a perfect smile with ease!
Dental Exams & Cleaning
Our dedicated team ensures expert care in a safe, welcoming space for a comfortable experience.
Dentures
Regain confidence with custom dentures that restore function, comfort, and a natural smile.
Tooth Extractions
We provide safe, efficient tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth removal, with care.
Teeth Whitening
Brighten your smile safely with professional whitening that removes stains and enhances shine.
Dental Fillings
Fix cavities with strong, tooth-colored fillings for a healthy, natural-looking smile.
Best Services
Crowns
Protect and restore teeth with durable, natural-looking crowns for strength and a perfect smile.
Emergency Dentistry
Need urgent dental care? Our experts ensure prompt emergency treatment when you need it most.
Root Canal Therapy
Our skilled dentists provide comfortable, efficient root canal therapy to restore your smile.
Clear Aligners
Want straighter teeth? Our clear aligners help you achieve a perfect smile with ease!
Dental Exams & Cleaning
Our dedicated team ensures expert care in a safe, welcoming space for a comfortable experience.
Dentures
Regain confidence with custom dentures that restore function, comfort, and a natural smile.
Tooth Extractions
We provide safe, efficient tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth removal, with care.
Teeth Whitening
Brighten your smile safely with professional whitening that removes stains and enhances shine.
Dental Fillings
Fix cavities with strong, tooth-colored fillings for a healthy, natural-looking smile.
Our Clinic






Take Action to Protect Your Smile
Don’t let tooth decay progress into more serious problems. Contact Delta Park Dental today to schedule your comprehensive examination and discuss your dental filling options.
Request an Appointment Online
Can’t call right now? Visit our website to request an appointment online. Simply select “Filling Consultation” from our service menu, and we’ll contact you to confirm your visit.
Your smile deserves the best care. Choose Delta Park Dental for expert filling procedures that preserve and protect your natural teeth.
TESTIMONIALS
Mark S.
"After experiencing sharp pain in my molar, I visited Delta Park Dental for treatment. Dr. Johnson discovered significant decay and recommended a composite filling. The procedure was quick and painless, and I couldn't be happier with the results. My tooth looks completely natural!"
Sarah T.
"I had old silver amalgam fillings that were becoming unsightly. The team at Delta Park replaced them with beautiful tooth-colored fillings that match my natural teeth perfectly. No one can tell I have fillings now!"
David L.
"As someone who's had both amalgam and composite fillings, I can say that Delta Park Dental excels at both. Their attention to detail and focus on patient comfort made even my deep filling procedure surprisingly pleasant. I especially appreciated how they preserved as much of my healthy tooth structure as possible."
Jennifer K.
"My son needed several fillings for his baby teeth, and the team at Delta Park was amazing with him. They explained everything in child-friendly terms and used glass ionomer fillings that provide added protection against further decay. He didn't even realize the procedure was happening!"
Robert M.
"I required a complex gold inlay for a severely damaged molar. The process at Delta Park was seamless from start to finish. Their coordination with the dental laboratory was impeccable, and the final result has been functioning perfectly for years now."
FAQs About Dental Fillings
How long do dental fillings typically last?
The longevity of dental fillings varies by the filling material and location. On average:
- Amalgam fillings: 10-15 years
- Composite fillings: 5-10 years
- Gold fillings: 15-30 years
- Porcelain fillings: 10-15 years
- Glass ionomer fillings: 5 years
Regular dental check-ups allow us to monitor your fillings and address any issues before they require complete replacement.
Is the dental filling procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during a filling procedure. We use effective local anesthetic to numb the area completely before beginning treatment. You may feel slight pressure during the procedure, but pain should be minimal or absent. After the anesthetic wears off, some patients experience mild sensitivity for a few days, especially with deeper fillings, but this typically resolves quickly.
How do I know if I need a filling or a crown?
The decision between a filling and a crown depends on the extent of damage to your tooth. Generally, tooth fillings only are appropriate when:
The decay or damage affects less than 50% of the tooth
The remaining tooth structure is strong and intact
The damage is primarily confined to one surface
Crowns are typically recommended when:
The decay is extensive
The tooth has had a root canal
The tooth has multiple large fillings already
There are significant cracks in the tooth
During your examination, we’ll discuss all appropriate options and help you make an informed decision.
Are amalgam fillings safe, or should I have them replaced with tooth-colored alternatives?
Amalgam fillings containing mercury have been extensively studied and are considered safe by the American Dental Association and major health organizations worldwide. However, some patients prefer to avoid mercury for personal reasons or aesthetic preferences.
We generally don’t recommend replacing functioning amalgam fillings solely due to mercury concerns. However, if you’re interested in replacing them for aesthetic reasons, or if the metal fillings themselves are worn or damaged, we can discuss composite resin or other tooth-colored alternatives.
Does dental insurance cover fillings?
Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for fillings, typically categorizing them as basic restorative procedures. However, insurance coverage indirect fillings varies:
Amalgam fillings are usually covered at a higher percentage
Some plans may only cover amalgam for back teeth, with an upgrade fee for composite materials
Gold fillings and porcelain restorations may be covered at a lower percentage or classified as major procedures
Our administrative team can help verify your specific coverage and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment.