Tooth-colored fillings that bond to your tooth and disappear into your smile.
Fillings That Look Like Teeth
What composite actually is
A composite filling also called a tooth-colored or bonded filling is made from a durable resin that is shade-matched to your tooth. We bond it directly into the prepared area, shape it, and cure it in place. Done well, it disappears into the tooth and supports the structure around it. We do not place silver fillings here.
The visit, start to finish
We numb the tooth, isolate it with a rubber dam to keep the field clean and dry, and remove any decay. We layer the composite into the prepared area, shape it to your bite, and polish it smooth. Most fillings take less than an hour, and you walk out able to eat right away. Nitrous oxide is available in every room if you want it.
Small repairs done well
A filling is a small procedure, but doing it well matters more than people realize. A poorly placed filling traps bacteria, fails early, and can crack the tooth around it. We slow down on every step isolation, bonding, layering, polishing because that is what makes a filling last and your tooth stay strong.
What is a composite filling?
A composite filling is a tooth-colored bonded filling made from a durable resin material. It is used to repair cavities, small fractures, or worn areas. At Tatum Dentistry, we place composite fillings exclusively bonded under rubber dam isolation, shade-matched to your tooth, and shaped to fit your bite naturally.
How much do fillings cost in Charleston, SC?
Cost depends on the size and location of the filling. Most fillings are routine and we will quote you a clear price before treatment. We send paperwork to your insurance company as a courtesy, and most plans provide coverage composite fillings.
Do fillings hurt?
We numb the tooth fully before starting, and we offer nitrous oxide in every room even for fillings. Most patients are comfortable throughout. After the appointment, the area can feel a little tender or sensitive to cold for a day or two; that fades quickly. Call us if anything feels off after that.
How long does a filling take?
Most composite fillings take 30 to 60 minutes from start to finish, depending on size and location. You can usually eat and drink right after, though we recommend giving the numbness a chance to wear off first. The filling is fully cured before you leave the chair.
See Why Charleston Loves Us
➔ Two kind and highly-skilled dentists
➔ Decades of experience
➔ A team that’s been together a long time
➔ Personal care with your comfort in mind
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do composite fillings last?
With good home care and regular cleanings, composite fillings commonly last 10 years or longer. The lifespan depends on the size of the filling, where it is, and how hard you grind. Larger fillings on back teeth wear faster than small ones on front teeth.
Will my filling match my tooth?
Yes. We shade-match the composite to your existing tooth color, layer it for natural translucency, and polish it smooth. Once placed, a composite filling should be invisible in your smile — and it should feel like part of your tooth when you bite down.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with composite?
Yes. Many of our patients ask us to replace older fillings with tooth-colored composite for cosmetic and structural reasons. We will look at each one and tell you whether it makes sense to replace now or watch and wait. Sometimes a filling that has held up for years is best left alone.
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