Composite Fillings in Wenatchee, WA
At Wenatchee Dental Arts, we offer composite fillings as part of our restorative dentistry services, helping patients in the Wenatchee area restore both the function and appearance of their teeth. Dr. John Divis, DDS, FAGD, has been practicing comprehensive dentistry in the community since 1993, bringing decades of hands-on experience to every treatment, including routine restorations. We treat every patient as an individual, not a number, and that shows in the care and attention given to even the most common procedures.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings, also called tooth-colored fillings, are a popular and effective way to repair a decayed or damaged tooth while keeping your smile looking natural. They are matched to the shade of your tooth so they blend in seamlessly — unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, there is no dark shadow visible through the enamel over time. Composite material also bonds to the tooth structure, which means less healthy tooth needs to be removed to place the filling. According to the National Institutes of Health, composite resin restorations have become one of the most widely used materials in modern dental practice due to their aesthetic results and ability to bond to and strengthen natural tooth structure.
Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings
How the Procedure Works
Getting a composite filling is a straightforward process typically completed in a single visit. Here is what you can expect:
Caring for Your Composite Filling
A composite filling can last many years with proper home care and routine visits to our office. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and keeping up with dental exams and cleanings are the best ways to protect the filling and tooth. Composite is durable, but it can chip if subjected to excessive force — if you grind your teeth at night, let us know so we can discuss a protective night guard.
In some cases, a filling placed near the center of a tooth or over a root that has been treated with root canal therapy may benefit from additional protection in the form of a crown. We will always let you know if that applies to your situation. Regular checkups allow us to monitor your fillings over time and catch any signs of wear, cracking, or secondary decay before they require more involved treatment.
Schedule Your Composite Filling Appointment in Wenatchee, WA
Dr. John Divis, DDS, FAGD, brings more than 30 years of experience to every patient interaction at Wenatchee Dental Arts, and our practice is built on the belief that comprehensive dentistry should feel personal. Whether you are coming in for a simple filling or a more complex restorative concern, you can expect the same quality of care at every appointment. We welcome new and returning patients throughout the Wenatchee area. To schedule your visit with Dr. John Divis or to learn more about composite fillings and our other restorative services, please contact our office to request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings in Wenatchee
How long do composite fillings last?
A well-placed composite filling typically lasts seven to ten years, though many last longer depending on the size of the restoration, its location in the mouth, and how well it is maintained. Fillings on back teeth absorb more chewing pressure and may wear more quickly than those on front teeth. Regular checkups allow us to monitor your fillings and catch any early signs of wear before they require more involved treatment.
Are composite fillings better than silver amalgam?
Composite and amalgam each have strengths. Composite requires less tooth removal, blends invisibly with the natural tooth, and bonds to provide structural support. Amalgam is durable and has a longer track record on high-load back teeth. For most patients today, composite is preferred for its aesthetics and conservative preparation requirements. Dr. Divis will help you weigh the options for your specific situation.
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area around the tooth is fully numbed with local anesthesia before any work begins, so the procedure itself should not be painful. You may feel pressure or vibration. After the anesthesia wears off, mild sensitivity is normal for a few days. This resolves on its own in most cases.
Can old amalgam fillings be replaced with composite?
Yes, in many cases. If an old amalgam filling is worn, cracked, or causing problems, replacing it with composite is a common and straightforward procedure. If the old filling is still in good condition and not causing any issues, replacement is generally not recommended purely for aesthetic reasons — removing a sound filling creates unnecessary risk. Dr. Divis will evaluate each filling individually and give you an honest recommendation.
Does insurance cover composite fillings?
Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings on front teeth. Coverage for composite on back teeth varies — some plans cover composite at the same rate as amalgam, while others only cover the amalgam rate on posterior teeth, leaving the difference as an out-of-pocket cost. We are in-network with Delta Dental and Premera and work with all other insurances as an out-of-network provider. Our team will review your coverage with you before treatment begins so you know exactly what to expect.
Contact Us
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.