Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings in Fairfax, VA
Restore and Protect Your Smile with Dr. Caitlin Hulver at Metropolitan Dental Centre
Cavities are one of the most common dental issues—but thanks to modern materials and techniques, treating them is easier and more natural-looking than ever. At Metropolitan Dental Centre in Fairfax, VA, Dr. Caitlin Hulver provides durable, aesthetically pleasing tooth-colored dental fillings to stop decay, restore strength, and keep your smile looking great.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay (cavities) or minor fractures. The process involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area, and filling it with a biocompatible material to seal and protect it.
Dr. Hulver uses high-quality composite resin, which is tooth-colored and blends seamlessly with your natural enamel. This material is strong, long-lasting, and mercury-free—an excellent choice for both front and back teeth.
Signs You May Need a Filling
You may not always feel a cavity, which is why regular dental exams are so important. However, common signs that you may need a filling include:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Visible holes or dark spots on your tooth
- Toothache or sharp pain when biting
- Food getting stuck in certain areas
- Rough edges or cracks you can feel with your tongue
Dr. Hulver will perform a thorough exam and use digital X-rays to detect cavities, even in their earliest stages.
The Dental Filling Process
Getting a filling at Metropolitan Dental Centre is a straightforward and comfortable experience. Here’s what to expect:
- Numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure a pain-free procedure
- Removing the decay from the affected part of the tooth
- Cleaning and preparing the space for the filling
- Applying and shaping the composite resin to match your natural tooth shape
- Curing the material with a special light to harden it
- Polishing and adjusting the filling to ensure a smooth, comfortable bite
Most fillings can be completed in just one visit, and you’ll be able to eat and drink shortly after the procedure.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Blend naturally with your teeth—no visible metal
- Strong and durable for long-term function
- Preserve more of your natural tooth structure
- Mercury-free and biocompatible
- Suitable for front and back teeth
- Less sensitivity than metal fillings in many cases
Composite fillings are an excellent choice for patients who want both cosmetic and functional restoration.
Replacing Old Metal Fillings
If you have older silver (amalgam) fillings that are cracked, worn, or unsightly, Dr. Hulver can safely remove and replace them with tooth-colored composite resin. This not only improves the look of your smile but also reinforces your teeth with a more modern, tooth-friendly material.
Preventing Future Cavities
While fillings are effective, preventing new cavities is always the goal. We work closely with our patients to promote strong oral health through:
- Regular cleanings and exams
- Fluoride treatments when needed
- Sealants for cavity-prone back teeth
- At-home guidance on brushing, flossing, and diet
Dr. Hulver believes in education and prevention as part of every patient’s care plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
How long do dental fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 5–10 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Do fillings hurt?
No. We use gentle techniques and local anesthesia to make the procedure comfortable. Most patients report little to no discomfort.
Will my filling be noticeable?
Not at all. Tooth-colored fillings are designed to blend in with your natural enamel and are virtually invisible when you smile.
Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Fillings in Fairfax, VA
If you have a cavity or suspect something may be wrong with a tooth, early treatment is key to avoiding more serious issues. At Metropolitan Dental Centre, Dr. Caitlin Hulver delivers expert restorative care using the most advanced and esthetic materials available.
Metropolitan Dental Centre
10509 Braddock Road, #B, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 503-5031
metropolitandentalcentre.com