If you have a cavity, a crack, or a chipped tooth, a composite filling is usually the straightforward fix. It’s one of the most common general dentistry treatments we provide, and most patients are in and out in a single appointment.
Because composite is tooth-colored, it blends with your surrounding teeth. That makes it a natural fit for front teeth or anything visible when you smile. Not every situation calls for a filling, though. Teeth with more extensive damage may be better served by a same-day dental crown, and healthy teeth at risk may be good candidates for dental sealants. Your dentist will go through the options and tell you what makes sense for your situation.
There are many types of filling materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For teeth with more extensive damage, a same-day dental crown may be a better fit, but our dentist will walk you through the best option for your situation.
Composite fillings aren’t permanent, but they hold up well with regular care.
Common reasons patients need a filling:
- A cavity from decay
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- A tooth that’s worn down over time
- Closing a small gap between teeth
Why Patients Choose Burien Dental for Composite Fillings
We numb the area before we start so that you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Most appointments wrap up in under an hour. If your bite feels off once the numbness wears off, call us. That’s a quick fix.
We’ve been seeing patients in Burien and Normandy Park for over 35 years. We make sure you leave comfortable and happy.
Really wonderful experience and top of the line technology. Happy to have found Burien Dental!
Have loved this place for a long time! They are Great with kids which really helps so our whole family can come here. Highly recommend! They are all so friendly and helpful with everything.
Everyone was so gentle, patient, and genuinely caring. You can tell they really want people to feel comfortable and taken care of and it makes such a difference.
How a Composite Filling Is Placed
Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as needed. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the tooth’s nerve, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed; this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.
You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings. If you have children or deep grooves that put teeth at higher risk, consider asking about dental sealants at your next visit.
Most fillings at Burien Dental are completed in a single visit. Here’s what to expect from start to finish.
How long does a composite filling take in?
A single composite filling at Burien Dental typically takes 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the cavity’s size, where it is, and whether we’re treating one tooth or more than one. Most patients are out in under an hour.
If a cavity worsens, additional treatments, such as dental crowns in Burien, may be recommended to fully restore the tooth’s strength and function.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
Composite fillings have become the go-to choice for most patients, and it’s easy to see why.
- They match the natural color of your teeth, so no one can tell you’ve had work done
- The material bonds directly to the tooth, which means less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed compared to older silver fillings
- The entire process is completed in a single visit with no lab wait time
- They’re durable enough to handle normal biting and chewing for years
- They work for a range of issues, including decay, chips, cracks, and minor cosmetic concerns
How much does a composite filling cost?
The cost of a composite filling varies based on a few key factors: how large the cavity is, how many surfaces of the tooth are involved, and the location of the tooth in your mouth.
For a one- or two-surface composite filling, you can generally expect to pay somewhere between $90 and $250 without insurance. If the cavity spans three or more surfaces, that range typically runs $150 to $450 or more.
If you have dental insurance, most plans cover fillings as a basic procedure and will typically cover up to 70–80% of the cost once your annual deductible is met. We accept most major dental insurance plans and are a preferred provider with Delta Dental, Regence, Premera, Lifewise, and Guardian. Our team will help you understand your benefits and can provide a clear estimate before treatment.
Don’t have insurance? Don’t put it off. Treating a small cavity with a filling now is far less expensive than waiting. Untreated decay can progress to the point where you need a root canal, crown, or even a tooth replacement, all of which cost significantly more.
For added flexibility, financing options through Sunbit and Cherry are available, allowing you to break treatment into manageable monthly payments. Applications are quick, and many patients are approved within minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings in Burien, WA
How long do composite fillings last?
With good care, composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years, sometimes longer. How long yours holds up depends on your oral hygiene, what you eat, and whether you're keeping up with regular visits. We look at your fillings at every checkup, and if something's starting to wear, we'll flag it before it needs something more involved.
How do I know if I need a filling?
Sometimes it's obvious: a toothache, sensitivity to sweets or cold, a chip you can feel with your tongue. But a lot of early cavities don't cause any symptoms at all. That's the whole point of X-rays and a thorough exam at your regular visits. Small cavities are easier to treat, less expensive, and much more comfortable than waiting until they grow. If something feels off, don't wait on it.
Why choose a composite filling over a silver one?
The color match is the main thing. We shade the composite to blend with your surrounding teeth, so the filling isn't visible when you talk or smile. That matters a lot more on front teeth than back molars, but most patients prefer it either way. There's also a structural advantage: composite bonds directly to the tooth, so we take less healthy structure away to place it. Silver amalgam still has its place in certain situations, but composite is what we use most often.
Ready to Get Your Smile Back on Track?
If you need a cavity filling in Burien, composite fillings are a strong option because they repair the tooth and blend in with your smile. We’ll explain your options, show you what we’re seeing, and give you a cost estimate before treatment starts.
Our office is in Burien near Normandy Park, and most fillings are finished in one visit. Routine exams and cleanings help us catch cavities while they’re still small. Call Us or schedule online, and we’ll help you get it taken care of.
