Tooth-Colored Fillings in Beaverton, OR
Repair cavities and chipped teeth with composite fillings that blend in, with conservative techniques from Dr. Gvozden.
Fixing a cavity without leaving a trace
A cavity is a hole in a tooth caused by acid-producing bacteria. It does not heal, so the decayed part must be removed and the space filled. The question is what to fill it with.
Composite resin has become the everyday choice for many tooth-colored fillings because it looks natural and bonds directly to tooth structure. For a front tooth, that difference can be the whole point. For a back tooth, it is a tidy, conservative repair. We choose the material for each situation and will tell you if something else suits it better.
Composite vs. other filling materials
| Option | Appearance | Best for | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite (tooth-colored) | Matches tooth shade | Small to medium cavities, chips, front teeth | Bonds to tooth; technique-sensitive; large fillings may wear faster |
| Amalgam (silver) | Metallic | Existing repairs still sound | Durable; leaves a visible dark filling; usually needs more tooth removal |
| Crown | Custom, can match tooth | Large cavities or cracked teeth | Covers and protects the whole tooth; see crowns |
These are general comparisons. What is right for your tooth depends on cavity size, location and bite, which is why we start with an exam.
What happens during the appointment
- Numbing. We apply topical gel and local anesthetic so the area is comfortable.
- Removing decay. Dr. Gvozden takes out only the softened, damaged part and keeps as much healthy tooth as possible.
- Bonding. We prepare the surface and place composite in thin layers, hardening each with a curing light.
- Shaping the bite. We sculpt the filling and check how your teeth meet so it feels natural when you chew.
- Polishing. A smooth finish helps the filling resist staining and plaque.
Because of the anesthetic, your lips and cheek may feel numb for a couple of hours. Avoid chewing on that side until it wears off so you do not bite yourself by accident.
Beyond cavities: other uses for bonding
- Repairing a small chip or worn edge
- Closing a minor gap in some situations
- Replacing a leaking or stained older filling
- Covering exposed root surfaces near the gumline that are sensitive or worn
Bonding has limits. Larger changes to shape or color are often better handled another way, and we will say so.
How to make a filling last
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth daily; edges of fillings are where new decay likes to start
- Do not use teeth to open packages or crack ice or hard candy
- Tell us if you clench or grind; a night guard can protect both natural teeth and repairs
- Keep regular exams and cleanings so we can catch wear early
Signs you may have a cavity or a failing filling
Early cavities are usually silent, which is why exams matter. Once a cavity grows, you might notice:
- A sweet, hot or cold sensitivity that lingers for a few seconds
- A visible pit, brown spot or rough patch on a tooth
- Food catching in one place that never used to
- Floss that shreds or snags at a certain spot
- A filling that has chipped, cracked or feels different when you bite
None of these confirms a cavity, and none is a reason to panic. They are reasons to book a visit, so we can look and take X-rays if needed.
Cost and coverage, in general terms
The price of a filling depends on the size of the cavity, the number of surfaces involved and the material. Many dental plans cover fillings at least in part, though some plans pay less for composite than for silver on back teeth. We cannot quote your plan from here, but we will check your benefits and give you an estimate before treatment begins. If more than one tooth needs work, we can sequence the visits so the most urgent tooth is handled first and the rest are spread across appointments that suit your schedule and budget.
What if the cavity is deep?
Sometimes decay reaches close to the nerve. In many cases a well-placed filling still resolves it. If the nerve is inflamed or infected, you may feel lingering or spontaneous pain, or hot and cold sensitivity that will not fade. In that case a root canal may be needed to save the tooth, and if the tooth cannot be restored, an extraction is discussed. We will explain what we see before any of that is on the table.
The best time to treat a cavity is when it is small. If you think you have one, call sooner rather than later; the treatment is simpler and the tooth stays stronger.
Cavities in your kids, too
Cavities run in families in part because habits and bacteria do. If you are being treated, your children may benefit from prevention such as sealants. Dr. Hsu can also repair children’s teeth; see kids’ fillings and crowns.
Request an appointment Call (503) 822-0096
We welcome patients from Beaverton, Aloha, Hillsboro and nearby. Call (503) 822-0096 and we can also check your benefits before your visit.
Questions patients often ask
What is a tooth-colored filling made of?
Most are composite resin, a blend of plastic and fine glass-like particles. It is placed in layers and hardened with a special light, then shaped and polished to match your tooth.
How long does a composite filling last?
There is no single number. Longevity depends on the filling’s size, where it sits, your bite, grinding habits, and how well you keep up with home care and checkups. Many last for years, and we check them at each exam.
Should I replace my old silver fillings?
Not automatically. Silver (amalgam) fillings that are intact and not leaking can stay. We suggest replacement when there is decay under a filling, a crack, or a failing edge. The ADA considers amalgam safe for most adults.
Will the filling hurt?
We numb the area with local anesthetic first, so you should feel pressure but not pain. If you have concerns, tell us, and we will adjust.
Is it normal to have sensitivity afterward?
Mild sensitivity to cold or biting can occur for a few days to a couple of weeks, especially with deeper cavities. Call us if it is severe, lasts longer, or if your bite feels high.
When would I need a crown instead of a filling?
When too much of the tooth is missing or cracked for a filling to hold up. See crowns and bridges.
Will insurance cover tooth-colored fillings?
Most plans cover fillings, sometimes at a different level for back teeth. We check your benefits and explain your portion before treatment. See our insurance and payment options page or call (503) 822-0096.
Ready to book your child’s visit?
Tell us a little about your family and we’ll reach out to find a time that works. New patients — kids, teens and adults — are welcome, and we accept almost all dental insurance and the Oregon Health Plan (OHP).