Composite Fillings
Direct, tooth-colored restorations for small to moderate cavities and minor chips.
- Completed in one visit
- Requires less drilling
- Bonds to tooth structure
- Blends seamlessly
Repair decay and minor damage with mercury-free, composite resin restorations that blend invisibly with your natural teeth. We preserve more of your healthy tooth structure for a stronger, more beautiful result.
Tooth-colored fillings use a BPA-free composite resin to restore teeth affected by decay, small chips, or minor fractures. Unlike traditional silver amalgam, composite resin bonds directly to the tooth structure, providing excellent support and a completely natural appearance.
At Carmel Family Dental, we carefully color-match the resin to your surrounding enamel, making the repair virtually undetectable. For larger areas of decay, we offer custom-crafted inlays and onlays to rebuild the tooth without needing a full crown.
Here is a simple overview of what to expect.
| Topic | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Repair cavities, minor damage, or replace old metal fillings |
| Materials | Composite resin (fillings), Porcelain or Zirconia (inlays/onlays) |
| Appointments | 1 visit (fillings) or 2 visits (inlays/onlays) |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia for comfort |
| Longevity | 5-10+ years with proper care |
| Aesthetics | Custom shade-matched to blend invisibly |
| Insurance | Most PPO plans cover fillings at 80% |
| Serving | Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville |
Tailored treatments to meet your specific goals.
Direct, tooth-colored restorations for small to moderate cavities and minor chips.
Custom-crafted restorations that fit within the cusps (bumps) of a back tooth.
Partial crowns that cover one or more cusps of a damaged tooth.
Safe removal and replacement of old, dark silver fillings with tooth-colored composite.
A consultation helps determine if this is the best path for your goals.
Teeth with new decay that needs to be removed and sealed to prevent further damage.
Silver amalgam fillings that are breaking down, leaking, or causing cosmetic concerns.
Teeth that are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweets, which often indicates decay or enamel wear.
Small fractures or chips that do not require the extensive coverage of a dental crown.
Areas between teeth where food constantly catches, often due to decay or failing restorations.
Patients seeking biocompatible, mercury-free restorative options for their oral health.
No pressure and no rushing. We give you the information you need to decide thoughtfully.
We visually inspect your teeth and use specialized instruments to detect soft areas of decay.
Imaging reveals decay between teeth or under old fillings that cannot be seen visually.
We determine if the tooth needs a simple filling, an inlay/onlay, or a full crown.
We discuss the best material for the location and function of the tooth.
We select the exact composite shade to match your natural enamel.
We outline the procedure, timeline, and answer any questions you have.
Careful planning follows a predictable, patient-centered sequence.
The area is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure you feel no discomfort.
The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed, preserving healthy structure.
The tooth surface is lightly etched to create a strong micro-mechanical bond.
The tooth-colored composite is applied in layers and sculpted to match the natural tooth shape.
A specialized UV light is used to instantly harden and set the composite material.
The filling is smoothed, polished, and your bite is checked to ensure perfect comfort.
The right choice depends on your specific needs.
| Feature | Composite Filling | Inlay / Onlay | Dental Crown | Amalgam (Silver) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Damage Level | ✓ Mild to Moderate | Moderate to Severe | Severe | Mild to Moderate |
| Tooth Prep | ✓ Minimal | Moderate | Extensive | More than composite |
| Aesthetics | ✓ Excellent | ✓ Excellent | ✓ Excellent | Poor (Dark) |
| Appointments | ✓ 1 Visit | 2 Visits | 2 Visits | 1 Visit |
| Strength | Good | ✓ Very Strong | ✓ Strongest | Strong |
| Bonding | ✓ Bonds to tooth | ✓ Bonds to tooth | Cemented | Wedged in place |
Results depend on careful diagnosis, disciplined planning, and a team that respects your goals.
We use only biocompatible, BPA-free composite materials for your health and safety.
Expert shade matching and sculpting techniques make fillings look like natural enamel.
Composite bonding allows us to preserve more of your natural, healthy tooth structure.
Most fillings are completed in a single, comfortable visit so you can get back to your day.
We prioritize your comfort with effective local anesthesia and a calm environment.
Patients appreciate our thorough, gentle approach to routine restorative care.
Our approach is designed around clear information and careful design.
I had three old silver fillings replaced with white ones. The difference is amazing. You can’t even tell I have fillings anymore, and the procedure was completely painless.
Dr. Schraeder fixed a chipped front tooth with bonding. He matched the color perfectly. It was fast, easy, and looks completely natural.
I appreciate that they use mercury-free materials. The team was gentle and explained everything before they started. Highly recommend.
Every treatment plan is developed with attention to health, function, and appearance.
Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
Dr. Stuart focuses on natural-looking cosmetic and restorative care that respects the character of each patient’s smile.
Read Full Bio →
Cosmetic Dentistry & Implants
Dr. Schraeder brings digital planning and detail-oriented craftsmanship to cosmetic treatment conversations and smile design.
Read Full Bio →Clear answers to common questions.
Our team can help you understand how your benefits and treatment options may apply.
We review available benefits before your care begins.
Our treatment coordinators help you understand the clinical sequence and timing.
Carmel Family Dental is conveniently located in Carmel, Indiana, and welcomes patients from throughout the greater Indianapolis area.
Schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Carmel Family Dental. We will listen to your goals, review the health of your smile, and explain the appropriate options clearly.
13590 N Meridian St, Suite 200, Carmel, IN 46032 | Serving Indianapolis & Surrounding Areas