What Are Dental Fillings — and Why Are They Needed?
Dental fillings restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or small fractures. At Tribeca Dental Studio, our approach is modern, minimally invasive, and focused on aesthetics — meaning restorations blend perfectly with your natural teeth.
Common reasons patients need a filling include:
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Cavities (tooth decay)
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Cracked or chipped teeth
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Old silver/amalgam fillings that need replacement
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Tooth sensitivity
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Enamel wear
Our dentists use tooth-colored composite materials that match your enamel tone, preserve more of your natural tooth structure, and strengthen the tooth long-term.
Why Choose Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings?
At Tribeca Dental Studio, we do 100% metal-free fillings, because they:
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Look natural
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Bond securely to the tooth
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Require less drilling
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Do not contain mercury
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Strengthen weakened tooth structure
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Last many years with proper care
Composite restorations are ideal for both front and back teeth, providing strong function and exceptional aesthetics.
Before & After Dental Filling Cases
Dental Filling Before
Dental Filling After
What To Expect During a Filling Appointment
Your visit at Tribeca Dental Studio is comfortable, fast, and fully digital.
Step 1 — Digital Exam & Diagnostics
We use HD intraoral cameras and digital X-rays to detect decay early.
Step 2 — Gentle Numbing (If Needed)
Most small fillings require minimal anesthesia — comfort is always our priority.
Step 3 — Removing Decay Conservatively
Using minimally invasive dentistry, your doctor removes only damaged tooth structure.
Step 4 — Placing the Composite Filling
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Material is color-matched to your natural shade
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Layered for strength
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Cured with advanced LED technology
Step 5 — Polishing to a Natural Shine
Your filling is shaped and polished so it feels smooth, natural, and completely invisible.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
Composite fillings typically last:
7–12 years — and often longer with proper care.
Factors affecting longevity include:
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Oral hygiene
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Size of filling
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Nighttime grinding (bruxism)
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Diet and habits
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Regular dental cleanings
We also provide nightguards for patients who grind their teeth to protect restorations long-term.
Aftercare: How to Protect Your New Filling
To keep your restoration strong for years:
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Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
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Floss every night
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Avoid chewing ice or extremely hard foods
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Attend regular cleanings every 6 months
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Use a nightguard if recommended
If you feel sensitivity after treatment, this is normal and usually fades in 24–48 hours.
7–12 years on average, depending on size, hygiene, and habits.
No — we use advanced numbing and gentle techniques. Most patients feel nothing.
No. We use only biocompatible, mercury-free, tooth-colored materials.
Yes — composite bonding can rebuild natural shape instantly.
When it cracks, leaks, darkens, or causes sensitivity.
Call or Text 212-561-5303
[email protected] 54 Warren St., New York, NY 10007SUNDAY: 9-2 PM