Fillings & Bonding
Restorative
Tooth-colored fillings and bonding.
Mercury-free composite fillings and bonding that blend into the tooth so well, you would not know they were there.
What it is
Overview.
A filling restores a tooth after a cavity is removed. Bonding uses the same material to repair small chips or close minor gaps in a single visit. Both are quick, conservative, and almost invisible when done with care.
We use modern composite resin instead of amalgam (the silver-mercury blend used in years past). Composite is mercury-free, bonds directly to the tooth, and is shaded to match your enamel.
Is it right for you?
When fillings or bonding help
Not sure if you are a candidate? A 20-minute consult with Dr. Patel is the fastest way to find out what treatment options fit your goals, health, and timeline.
Book a consultation- A new cavity caught on exam or X-ray
- An old silver filling that is cracking or leaking
- A small chip on a front tooth that bothers you
- A minor gap you would like to close cosmetically
- Discoloration in a small area that whitening will not fix
How it works
How a filling visit goes
- Step 01
1 · Numb gently
Topical gel first, then a careful injection. We move slowly and adjust technique for comfort.
- Step 02
2 · Remove decay
We clean out only the decayed portion of the tooth — preserving as much healthy structure as possible.
- Step 03
3 · Layer composite
Tooth-colored composite is built up in thin layers, each cured with a small blue light.
- Step 04
4 · Shape & polish
We sculpt the filling to match the natural anatomy of the tooth, then polish for a seamless finish.
- Step 05
5 · Check the bite
A final bite check ensures the filling feels just like the tooth did before — only stronger.
Why it works
Why composite over old-style fillings
- Looks like the tooth — no silver flash when you laugh
- Mercury-free, BPA-conscious materials
- Bonds directly to the tooth — supports the remaining structure
- Less drilling required to place a composite filling
- Can be repaired or replaced without removing healthy enamel
- Bonding can be done in a single short visit
Aftercare
After your filling
Wait until the numbness wears off before eating. Mild cold sensitivity for a day or two is normal — it should fade. Sharp pain when biting may mean the bite needs a small adjustment — call us and we will see you right away.
Common questions
FAQs about fillings & bonding.
Still have a question? Call us at 704-544-8860 or send a note — we are happy to talk it through.
Can old silver fillings be replaced?
How long does a composite filling last?
Will I be numb for a long time?
Is bonding a good fix for a chipped front tooth?
Patient experience
Clear care, comfortable visits.
Patients often tell us they appreciate seeing X-rays and photos on screen, hearing their options clearly, and understanding what is urgent versus what can wait.
New patients welcome
Ready for a dentist who actually listens?
Book a comprehensive new-patient visit and find out why families across Ballantyne keep coming back. We will take the time to understand your goals — then build a plan around them.