Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings in Tuscaloosa, AL

What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a restoration used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, we fill the area with a durable material—restoring its shape, function, and strength.

At Rhodes & Rhodes Family Dentistry, we use composite (tooth-colored) fillings for most cases. These are:

• Mercury-free
  
• Aesthetically matched to your enamel
  
• Bonded directly to the tooth for added strength
  
• Less invasive than older amalgam (metal) options
  

Composite fillings are ideal for both front and back teeth and help you maintain a healthy, natural-looking smile.

Do I Need a Filling?

You may need a dental filling if you’re experiencing:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
  
• Visible pits or holes in a tooth
  
• Pain when chewing
  
• Dark spots or rough areas on your teeth
  
• A lost or broken filling
  

We’ll identify decay early during your routine dental exam using digital X-rays and thorough diagnostics. The earlier we treat it, the more natural tooth we can preserve.

The Tooth Filling Process

1. Gentle Numbing
   We begin with local anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable.
   
2. Decay Removal
   The damaged area of the tooth is carefully removed while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
   
3. Tooth Bonding and Filling
   We place the composite material in layers, shaping it to fit your bite and match the natural contours of your tooth.
   
4. Final Polish
   After hardening the material with a curing light, we polish the filling for a smooth, natural finish.
   

The process is quick—often completed in under an hour—and helps prevent more extensive dental work down the road.

What If I Have an Old Metal Filling?

If you have older amalgam fillings that are breaking down or causing aesthetic concerns, we can replace them with modern, composite materials that:

• Strengthen the tooth
  
• Look more natural
  
• Eliminate exposure to mercury
  
• Provide better long-term performance
  

We’ll evaluate your existing restorations and recommend replacement only when it’s in the best interest of your tooth.

Preventing Future Cavities

Fillings are important, but prevention is key. After your restoration, we’ll help you build healthy habits and recommend additional services to reduce your cavity risk, such as:

• Fluoride treatments
  
• Dental sealants
  
• Routine cleanings
  
• Nutrition tips and hygiene coaching
  

We’re here to support you with care that’s personalized, respectful, and focused on long-term health.

Caring for Your Filling

To extend the life of your dental filling:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  
• Floss gently once per day
  
• Avoid chewing ice or hard candy
  
• Visit us regularly for exams and cleanings
  

Composite fillings typically last 7–10 years or longer with proper care.

Serving Tuscaloosa & Surrounding Areas

Our practice proudly provides dental fillings for patients in:

• Tuscaloosa
  
• Northport
  
• Cottondale
  
• Brookwood
  
• Holt
  
• Moundville
  
• Vance
  
• Coker
  

Searching for tooth fillings near me or composite fillings in Tuscaloosa? We’re here with same-day appointments and compassionate care.

Protect Your Smile—Early Is Best

If you're feeling a twinge or it's been a while since your last visit, don’t wait. A small filling now can save your tooth from more serious treatment later.