Tooth-Colored Fillings
Modern composite fillings that bond directly to your tooth, match your natural enamel, and leave no trace that anything was ever there.
Why we only use tooth-colored fillings
At Agape Dental Group, every filling we place is a composite resin — a tooth-colored material that bonds chemically to your enamel and is virtually invisible when finished. We don't place silver (amalgam) fillings at any of our Fremont, Cupertino, or Milpitas offices, and we haven't for years.
Tooth-colored fillings aren't just a cosmetic upgrade — they're a clinical one. Because composite bonds directly to the tooth structure, we can preserve significantly more of your natural enamel during the procedure. The result is a stronger long-term outcome, less risk of cracking, and a filling that looks like it was never there.
What's wrong with silver fillings
Amalgam fillings — the dark silver ones you may remember from childhood — have been used in dentistry for over 150 years. They were the standard option when nothing better existed. Modern composite materials have changed that completely.
Amalgam is roughly 50% mercury by weight, mixed with silver, tin, and copper. While the American Dental Association (ADA) still considers it safe in placed form, the FDA's 2020 guidance recommends avoiding it for pregnant patients, nursing mothers, women planning to become pregnant, children under 6, and people with kidney conditions, neurological disease, or known mercury sensitivity. Several countries — including Norway, Sweden, and Denmark — have phased it out entirely.
Beyond the material itself, there are serious structural problems with how amalgam interacts with teeth over time. That's where the real case for replacement lives.
Should you replace your old amalgam fillings?
We don't recommend rushing to replace every silver filling you have — that's never been the right answer. But there are specific situations where replacement clearly makes sense. If any of these apply to your existing amalgams, it's worth a conversation at your next visit.
- The filling shows visible cracks or wear Old amalgams expand and contract with hot and cold over decades. Eventually they crack the surrounding tooth — and once that happens, bacteria can leak underneath and start new decay you can't see.
- You notice sensitivity around the filling New cold sensitivity, biting pain, or a vague ache near an old silver filling often signals secondary decay developing underneath — a known failure mode of aging amalgams.
- The tooth itself looks gray or stained Mercury and other metals slowly migrate into the surrounding enamel over years, leaving a gray or bluish cast around the filling. Replacement restores the natural tooth color.
- The filling is visible when you smile Many adults have amalgams in premolars or upper molars that show during conversation. There's no medical reason to keep them — and an aesthetic case for replacing them with composite.
- You're pregnant, nursing, or planning to be The FDA recommends avoiding mercury exposure during pregnancy and lactation. We don't recommend removing existing amalgams while pregnant, but planning ahead before or after makes sense.
- You have multiple large amalgams Larger silver fillings are more likely to fail mechanically over time. Replacing them with bonded composite restorations stabilizes the tooth and often prevents the need for a crown later.
What getting a filling actually involves
A typical filling visit takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, depending on size and location. We use a topical numbing gel before any local anesthetic, and we never rush the numbing process — comfort is non-negotiable.
For patients with anxiety, we offer additional comfort options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and headphones for music. Just ask when you book.
- Numb the area Topical gel first, then local anesthetic. We confirm you're fully numb before any work begins.
- Remove decay Only the decayed tissue comes out. Composite bonding lets us preserve far more healthy tooth than amalgam ever could.
- Bond & place composite Tooth is etched, primed, and the composite is built up in shade-matched layers, cured with a light at each step.
- Polish & bite check We shape the filling to match the natural tooth, check your bite, and polish to a smooth finish. You leave with a fully functional tooth.
Making your filling last
Composite fillings typically last 10 to 15 years with good care. A few small habits keep them solid for the full lifespan.
The first 24 hours
- Wait for numbness to wear off before eating — usually 1 to 3 hours.
- Some sensitivity is normal. Cold or biting pressure may feel different for a few days as the tooth settles.
- Avoid very hard or sticky foods on that side for the first day.
- Call us if your bite feels off. A quick adjustment is easy and prevents bigger issues.
Long-term care
- Brush and floss normally. Composite fillings respond to the same daily care as natural enamel.
- Don't chew ice or hard candy. Composites are durable but not indestructible.
- Keep your six-month cleanings. We check every filling at every visit and catch small issues early.
- Mention any changes. A new rough edge or sensitivity is easier to fix than ignore.
Signs you may need a filling
Most cavities are caught at routine cleanings before you feel anything. But if you've been putting off a visit and notice any of these, it's worth calling now rather than waiting six months.
Cold or sweet pain
A sharp twinge that lingers after cold drinks or sugary foods is one of the earliest cavity signals.
Dark spot or hole
A small dark spot, pit, or visible hole on the chewing surface usually means decay has broken through the enamel.
Pain when biting
A specific tooth that hurts when you bite down — especially on harder foods — often signals a cavity or cracked filling.
Things catching in a tooth
Food repeatedly stuck in the same spot, or floss that frays or catches, often means there's a hole that needs to be filled.
Things patients often ask
How long does a tooth-colored filling last?
With good care and regular checkups, composite fillings typically last 10 to 15 years. Larger fillings, or fillings on teeth subject to heavy grinding, may need replacement sooner. We check every filling at every cleaning visit.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver ones?
Modern composite materials have caught up to and in many ways surpassed amalgam for typical fillings. Because composite bonds to the tooth, it actually reinforces the remaining tooth structure — whereas amalgam relies on mechanical retention and tends to weaken the tooth over time.
How much does a filling cost?
Cost depends on the filling's size and location. Most PPO dental plans cover fillings at 70 to 80% after your deductible. Call your nearest Agape office with your insurance info and we'll give you an exact estimate before any work begins.
Will my insurance cover replacing my old silver fillings?
Insurance coverage for amalgam replacement depends on the reason. If a filling is failing — cracked, leaking, or with decay underneath — coverage is usually the same as for a new filling. Replacement for purely cosmetic reasons is typically not covered. We'll review your specific situation and benefits before recommending anything.
Is the mercury in amalgam dangerous?
The ADA's official position is that placed amalgam fillings are safe for most adults. The FDA, however, recommends avoiding amalgam for pregnant patients, nursing mothers, young children, and people with kidney issues or mercury sensitivity. The mercury question is a personal choice — we'll give you the information and let you decide.
Does the procedure hurt?
No. We numb the area thoroughly with topical gel followed by local anesthetic before any work begins. You may feel pressure or vibration but no pain. For anxious patients, we offer nitrous oxide and other comfort options — just ask when you book.
Schedule your filling at your nearest office
Whether you're addressing a new cavity or planning to replace older silver fillings, book at the Agape office closest to you — Fremont, Cupertino, or Milpitas.
Cupertino
10440 S. De Anza Blvd, #D4Cupertino, CA 95014