Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues, but it’s also one of the easiest to treat—especially with modern dental fillings. At Douglas Pike Smiles, we provide tooth-colored dental fillings in Smithfield, Rhode Island that restore the strength of your tooth while blending seamlessly with your natural smile. Whether you have a new cavity or need to replace an old metal filling, Dr. Abhishek Kapoor and our friendly team are here to help.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay (cavities) or minor fractures. After the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, a filling is placed to restore its shape, function, and appearance.
At Douglas Pike Smiles, we use composite resin (tooth-colored) fillings for a natural-looking result. Composite fillings are strong, durable, and blend in with the color of your teeth, making them a popular choice for patients of all ages.
When Do You Need a Filling?
A dental filling may be recommended if you have:
- A cavity caused by tooth decay
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Tooth wear from grinding or acidic erosion
- Small areas of damage or minor fractures
- An old filling that needs to be replaced
Regular dental exams help us catch cavities early, allowing for less invasive and more cost-effective treatment with a simple filling.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Choosing tooth-colored composite fillings offers many advantages:
Natural Appearance
Composite fillings are color-matched to your natural teeth for a seamless look.
Preserves Tooth Structure
Less drilling is required compared to metal fillings, allowing us to preserve more of your healthy tooth.
Durable and Strong
Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, providing strong support and reducing the risk of further damage.
Mercury-Free
Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, composite fillings contain no metal or mercury.
Versatile
Composite resin can also be used for cosmetic bonding and small repairs, making it a flexible solution.
Dental Fillings
Why Choose Douglas Pike Smiles for Dental Fillings?
At Douglas Pike Smiles, your comfort and oral health come first. Dr. Abhishek Kapoor uses gentle techniques and modern materials to ensure that your filling looks great, feels natural, and lasts for years to come.
What you can expect:
- Advanced diagnostics to detect decay early and treat it conservatively
- High-quality materials that match your tooth color and withstand daily wear
- Patient-focused care in a relaxed, welcoming environment
- Clear communication so you understand your treatment every step of the way
Whether you need a small filling or are replacing older dental work, we’re here to restore your smile comfortably and effectively.
Dental Fillings FAQs
No. The area will be numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure, so you won’t feel pain during the filling. You may experience slight sensitivity after the procedure, but it typically resolves within a few days.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, composite fillings can last 7 to 10 years or more. Their durability depends on the size of the filling and your oral care habits.
Yes, but it’s best to wait until the numbness wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Composite fillings harden immediately, so you can resume eating soft foods shortly after the procedure.
Tooth-colored (composite) fillings offer better aesthetics, bond directly to the tooth, and require less removal of healthy tooth structure. They’re a preferred option for visible areas of the mouth and for patients wanting a metal-free alternative.
No. Intraoral cameras do not emit radiation — they use light and digital imaging, making them completely safe.
While the use of intraoral cameras is part of your exam, insurance coverage may vary. In most cases, it’s included as part of diagnostic and preventive care.