- Small Filling, Big Protection
Dental Filling in Richmond, TX
Repair cavities and damaged teeth with tooth-colored dental fillings designed for strength, comfort, and a natural-looking smile.
What a Dental Filling Can Do for Your Smile
What is a dental filling? A dental filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay by removing the cavity and filling the space with a material such as tooth-colored composite resin, amalgam, gold, or ceramic. Composite (tooth-colored) fillings are the most popular today, take about an hour, and typically last 5 to 10 years, while amalgam can last 10 to 15 years. Most fillings are done in one visit under local anesthesia.
At Glow Up Dentistry in Richmond, TX, Dr. Ginger Unegbu places natural-looking fillings.
When You Might Need a Dental Filling
A filling is the right fix when decay or minor damage has not yet compromised the whole tooth. Dr. Ginger Unegbu, DDS may recommend a tooth filling to:
- Repair a cavity caused by tooth decay, the most common reason.
- Restore a tooth that is chipped, cracked, or worn.
- Fill a small gap or reshape a tooth for a better bite.
- Replace an old, worn, leaking, or discolored filling before it fails.
Not sure if a twinge means a cavity? Common signs include sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold, a visible dark spot or hole, food catching in one spot, or a dull ache. If an old filling has started hurting after months or years, that is a separate warning sign we cover in detail in our guide on why fillings hurt years later; either way, an exam tells you what is happening.
Types of Dental Fillings: Materials Compared
There are several filling materials, each with real tradeoffs in appearance, strength, longevity, and cost. Here is how they compare.
Material | Strengths | Tradeoffs | Typical lifespan |
Composite (tooth-colored) | Natural color, bonds to tooth, less drilling | Shorter life in heavy-bite areas; can stain | 5 to 10 years |
Amalgam (silver) | Very strong, inexpensive, forgiving to place | Metallic color; more tooth removed | 10 to 15 years |
Ceramic / porcelain | Tooth-colored, stain-resistant, durable | Costly; may need two visits | 10 to 15+ years |
Gold | Longest-lasting, gentle on other teeth | Metallic color; most expensive; two visits | 15 to 30 years |
Glass ionomer | Releases fluoride, good for kids/root areas | Weaker; not for biting surfaces | About 5 years |
Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings
The composite dental filling, also called a tooth-colored or white filling (and sometimes a plastic filling, since it is a resin), is the most popular choice today, and what we recommend for most patients. Modern tooth filling composite is strong, bonds directly to the tooth so less drilling is needed, and matches your enamel so closely it is essentially invisible. It works on front and back teeth alike. The main tradeoffs: it can stain at the edges over years and may not last as long as metal in heavy-grinding molars.
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
The tooth amalgam filling, a blend of silver, tin, copper, and mercury, has been used for over a century and is prized for strength, low cost, and forgiving placement, lasting 10 to 15 years. Its downsides are cosmetic (the silver color) and structural (more healthy tooth must be removed to hold it). Modern research considers amalgam safe, though many patients now prefer tooth-colored options, and some choose to replace old silver fillings for appearance.
Temporary Dental Fillings
Temporary Dental Fillings
A temporary dental filling is a short-term placeholder, used to relieve pain, between root canal appointments, or while a permanent restoration like a crown is being made. It is not meant to last; over-the-counter home filling kits are emergency-only and always need to be replaced by a proper filling. If you have a temporary filling, protect it and keep your follow-up appointment so we can place the permanent one before decay returns.
Can You Fill a Dead Tooth?
A common search is the dead tooth filling, and the honest answer matters: a tooth that has died, one whose nerve is no longer alive, usually cannot be fixed with a simple filling alone. A dead or dying tooth (often darkening in color, sometimes painful, sometimes silent) typically needs a root canal to remove the dead tissue first, after which it is sealed and usually protected with a crown, not just a filling.
A filling may be part of rebuilding the tooth, but on its own it does not treat the underlying problem. If you suspect a dead tooth, an exam and X-ray tell us for certain and what it needs; see our root canal page for how that treatment works.
Pediatric Dental Fillings for Children
Pediatric dental fillings treat cavities in children’s teeth, and yes, baby teeth are worth filling: they hold space for adult teeth and an untreated cavity can cause pain and infection. We use tooth-colored composite and gentle, kid-friendly techniques (glass ionomer, which releases fluoride, is sometimes used for young children), and we keep the visit calm and positive. Catching and filling a child’s cavity early is far easier on them than waiting until it becomes a toothache.
The Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect
Most fillings take about an hour or less and are done in one visit. Here is the process:
- Exam and X-ray: We confirm the cavity and check how deep it goes.
- Numbing (the pain block): We numb the area with a local anesthetic, sometimes called a dental block, so you feel no pain during the procedure, only mild pressure.
- Decay removal: We gently remove the decayed portion, preserving as much healthy tooth as possible.
- Placement and bonding: We clean and prepare the tooth, then place the filling material. Composite is added in layers and hardened with a curing light.
- Shaping and bite check: We trim, polish, and adjust the filling so your bite feels natural and even.
Most patients are surprised how quick and comfortable it is. If you feel anxious, ask about our comfort and sedation options.
Eating After Filling
With a composite (tooth-colored) filling, you can usually eat as soon as the numbness wears off, since it hardens fully in the chair. With a silver amalgam filling, it is best to wait one to two hours and stick to softer foods for the first day. Either way, avoid very hot or cold foods for a few days if the tooth feels sensitive, and do not chew while your mouth is still numb, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue. If you still have questions about eating after a dental filling, our detailed aftercare guide explains when to eat and which foods may feel most comfortable.
Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days is normal as the tooth settles; over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen and a sensitive-teeth toothpaste help. If pain is sharp when you bite, the filling may be slightly high and need a quick adjustment, an easy fix. Sensitivity that lasts beyond two to three weeks or worsens is worth a call.
Types of Dental Fillings: Materials Compared
Filling cost depends on the material, the size and number of cavities, and which teeth are involved. Here are typical U.S. ranges for the tooth filling price without insurance:
| Filling type | Typical cost without insurance (per tooth) | Lifespan |
| Amalgam (silver) | $75 to $200 | 10 to 15 years |
| Composite (tooth-colored) | $90 to $450 | 5 to 10 years |
| Glass ionomer | $90 to $250 | About 5 years |
| Gold | $450 to $2,500 | 15 to 30 years |
| Ceramic / porcelain (inlay/onlay) | $250 to $1,700 | 10 to 15+ years |
Most PPO dental plans cover fillings as a basic procedure, commonly 50 to 80 percent after your deductible. One note on insurance and tooth-colored fillings: some plans only cover composite up to the price of amalgam on back teeth (a “posterior composite downgrade”), meaning you pay the difference. We verify your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket before we begin. No insurance? Ask about CareCredit, Alphaeon, and Sunbit financing.
Book Your Dental Filling in Richmond, TX
A cavity only gets bigger, and more expensive, the longer it waits. If you have tooth sensitivity, a visible spot, or a filling that needs replacing, Dr. Ginger Unegbu, DDS and the team at Glow Up Dentistry will take care of it quickly and comfortably, with natural-looking results. We are accepting new patients across Richmond, Sugar Land, and Fort Bend County.
Call (346) 843-8743 or book online today.
Stop Cavities Before They Get Worse
GalleryBefore the Filling. After the Confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
How do I relieve tooth pain after a filling?
Mild sensitivity for a few days is normal. To ease it: take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if it is safe for you, use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods, and chew on the other side for a day or two. If sharp pain happens only when you bite, the filling may be slightly high and needs a quick adjustment. Call us if pain lasts beyond two to three weeks or worsens.
What's a pain block for a tooth filling?
A pain block, or dental block, is a local anesthetic your dentist injects near the tooth to numb the area completely before the filling. It is what keeps the procedure painless; you feel pressure and movement but not pain. The numbness usually wears off within a few hours after your appointment.
Can you eat after a filling?
Yes, but timing depends on the material. With a tooth-colored composite filling, you can usually eat once the numbness wears off, because it hardens fully during the appointment. With a silver amalgam filling, wait one to two hours and stick to soft foods for the first day. In all cases, do not chew while numb, and avoid very hot or cold foods for a few days if the tooth is sensitive.
Which is better, composite or amalgam fillings?
For most people, tooth-colored composite is the preferred choice: it matches your teeth, bonds to the tooth, and preserves more healthy structure. Amalgam is stronger and cheaper and can last longer, which is why it is sometimes chosen for heavy-bite back molars. We will recommend the best material for your specific tooth and bite.
How long do dental fillings last?
It depends on the material: composite (tooth-colored) fillings typically last 5 to 10 years, amalgam 10 to 15 years, and gold or ceramic even longer. Good brushing and flossing, regular checkups, and not grinding your teeth all extend a filling’s life.
How much does a filling cost without insurance?
Typical ranges are about $75 to $200 for amalgam and $90 to $450 for composite, depending on the cavity’s size and location. Gold and ceramic cost more. We provide a clear estimate before treatment and offer financing if you do not have insurance.
Can a dead tooth be fixed with a filling?
Usually not on its own. A dead tooth (one with a non-vital nerve) typically needs a root canal to remove the dead tissue, after which it is sealed and often protected with a crown. A filling may be part of the rebuild but does not treat the underlying problem. An exam and X-ray confirm what the tooth needs.
Do you offer tooth-colored fillings for children?
Yes. We place pediatric fillings using tooth-colored composite and gentle, kid-friendly techniques, and we keep the visit calm and positive. Filling a child’s cavity early prevents pain and protects the space for their adult teeth.
Where can I get a dental filling near me in Richmond?
Glow Up Dentistry places dental fillings at 10310 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 202, Richmond, TX 77406, serving Richmond, Sugar Land, and Fort Bend County. Call (346) 843-8743 or book online; we are accepting new patients.
Meet Dr. GINGER UNEGBU, DDS
Dr. Ginger Unegbu’s expertise spans various dental domains, showcasing excellence in preventive care, restorative treatments, cosmetic enhancements, and advanced dental care.
Gallery
Dental fillings are a routine dental procedure designed to restore a tooth with minor tooth decay. It falls under the category of general restorative dentistry because it can be performed by a general dentist. The team at Glow Up Dentistry offers a variety of procedures designed to restore and improve your smile including dental fillings.
Here is what you need to know about the dental filling procedure.
What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a dental procedure designed to treat tooth decay and prevent further damage to the affected too. This procedure involves the removal of the decay, which also reduces the risk of pain and infection. An artificial, biocompatible material is used to fill the hole left by the decay.
While there may be some discomfort associated with the procedure, it should not be painful. If you do have moderate or severe pain during the procedure or recovery, contact the clinic.
How do you know you need a dental filling?
There are several signs/symptoms that indicate you may need a dental filling, including:
- Hole in tooth
- Sensitivity to heat/cold, sugar, and pressure
- Sharp/throbbing toothache
- Chipped/fractured tooth
- Lost/broken filling
- Pain when biting/chewing
How long does it take to recover after a dental filling?
Most patients can transition back to their normal routine by the following day. However, you may have some residual discomfort for a few additional days. This is easily managed with OTC pain relievers. However, if the pain worsens or if you have signs of an infection, it’s important to contact the clinic as soon as possible.
Steps in Dental Filling Procedure
Typically, it takes about 20 minutes to an hour to complete a dental filling procedure, depending on the location of the tooth and the extent of the decay.
The first thing the dentist will do is administer anesthesia. In most cases, a local anesthetic is used. However, we understand that some patients have anxiety, so we will offer sedation options.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the dentist will use a drill or a laser to remove the decay. The instrument they use will depend on their training, investment, and comfort with the equipment, as well as the location and extent of the decay.
During the removal process, they will probe/test the area to determine if any decay is still present. Once all of the decay has been removed, the void will be cleaned and disinfected to remove debris and decay. If the decay is near the toot, a liner may be placed to protect the nerve. Finally, the filling material will be used to fill in the hole left by decay removal.
Types of Filling Materials
There are several different types of filling materials to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Silver Amalgam
One of the primary advantages of silver amalgam is that they last an average of 10 to 15 years. Plus, they are less expensive than other options. The drawback is the amount of tooth that must be removed, as well as causes a grayish hue and increases the risk of additional tooth damage due to the expansion/contraction of the filling.
Composite Resin
The primary advantage of composite resin dental fillings is that the material can be matched to the neighboring natural teeth. The disadvantages are that they cost more than other options and may not be covered by insurance, they don’t last as long, the process may take longer than other options.
Porcelain
The advantages of porcelain or other ceramics are that they can be color matched to neighboring teeth and resist staining better than composite. However, this material is more expensive.
Metal/Gold
The advantages of gold dental fillings include a longer life expectancy and offers a pleasing aesthetic. The primary disadvantage is the cost- metal, especially gold, can be expensive.
Does Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of Composites?
While most dental insurance companies will cover a portion of the cost of dental fillings, they may not cover composite fillings. This is because composite fillings are less durable than other filling materials and may require replacement more often, plus many providers classify composite as a cosmetic dental option.
Schedule Your Dental Visit Today
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of a tooth cavity, schedule your consultation with the team at Glow Up Dentistry today. Our team has the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat a variety of dental conditions, including tooth cavities.
In addition to diagnosing and treating dental conditions, we can offer you tips on proper oral care habits to reduce your risk of dental issues in the future.
Our office is conveniently located on Grand Parkway in Richmond. You can schedule your visit by calling the office and speaking to one of our friendly staff members or by visiting our website.
Dental Filling FAQs
The team at Glow Up Dentistry strives to help patients understand their procedures. After all, understanding them can help patients relax. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to bring them up. Meanwhile, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about dental fillings below.
How much does a dental filling cost?
The average cost of a dental filling without dental insurance ranges from around $200 to $600. However, patients may pay up to $4,000 depending on a few different factors including the material, the extent of decay and location of the tooth, the number of teeth that need to be filled, the experience/expertise of the dentist, and the location of the dental clinic.
How long do dental fillings last?
The average life expectancy for a dental filling is about 10 years. There are several factors that can impact how long your filling last, including diet, oral hygiene practices, decay around the filling, bruxism, and trauma to the tooth.
Do dental fillings hurt?
The dental filling procedure may cause some minor discomfort. However, the pain should not be significant. If you do experience severe pain during the procedure or during recovery, contact the clinic for an emergency appointment. You may have an infection or other complication.
How do dental fillings work?
Dental fillings are used to restore/repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The dentist cleans the decay from the tooth and then fills it with a biocompatible material to protect and support it.
What to eat after dental filling?
After you get a dental filling, it’s best to wait at least until the anesthesia wears off to eat anything. When you do eat, make sure to avoid foods that are:
Extremely hot/cold
Hard
Sticky
Sugary
Make sure that you chew with your mouth closed and chew on the side that is opposite the filling. Finally, take your time and make sure that you bite/chew carefully.
