01
A small or moderate cavity
Caught before it needs a crown, which is the whole point of coming twice a year.
Tooth-Colored Fillings in Katy, TX
Tooth Coloured Fillings
Composite resin, shaded to your own teeth and bonded to them. Mercury free, and less of the healthy tooth taken away.
Is this you
Is this the treatment you need?
Not every restoration needs major work. A cavity, a small chip, or an old silver filling you have stopped liking are all this.
02
A chipped or fractured tooth
A minor chip on a front tooth is the most common one we see.
03
Old silver fillings
Amalgam that has started to show every time you laugh.
04
You want nothing metal
Anyone looking for a metal-free restoration.
And what else the same material is used for
- RepairA tooth affected by decay, or a chipped front tooth.
- ReshapeTeeth worn down or made uneven by grinding.
- CloseSmall gaps between teeth, without orthodontics.
- ProtectTooth roots left exposed by gum recession.
The Treatment
What it is, and what it involves.
What is a composite filling?
Plastic resin blended with finely ground glass, in a shade matched to your own enamel. It bonds to the tooth rather than sitting inside it, which is why less of the tooth has to go.
In the practice’s words
Composite fillings are made from a blend of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles. This combination produces a material that closely matches the color and translucency of natural teeth. These tooth-colored fillings offer a discreet way to restore decayed, chipped, or broken teeth without leaving noticeable signs of dental work.
Unlike older silver or metal fillings, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure. This bonding process not only strengthens the tooth but also requires less removal of healthy enamel, helping to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible.
What the appointment includes
- 01Examination, and digital x‑rays where the decay is not visible
- 02Local anaesthetic before anything is touched
- 03Only the compromised tissue removed
- 04The resin placed in thin layers, each cured under the light
- 05Sculpted to the tooth’s anatomy, then polished
Why This One
What it does for you.
The practice’s own six reasons patients now ask for these instead of amalgam.
Nothing shows
Matched and polished, the filling is invisible when you talk, laugh or eat.
It bonds to the tooth
Chemically, not mechanically. That adhesion reinforces what is left of the tooth.
Less of the tooth is removed
A more conservative preparation than amalgam needs, which matters long term.
Mercury free
No metal at all, for patients who would rather not have any.
It feels like the tooth
No rough edges and no uneven surfaces once it is sculpted and polished.
One material, several jobs
Cavities, chips, worn edges, small gaps and exposed roots, all with the same resin.
Your dentist
Dr. Dave Cho, DMD
Dr. Dave Cho places the resin in layers and shapes it by hand, which is what decides whether the bite feels right afterwards.
- 1Visit, in most cases
- 0Mercury
- 5–10Years, often longer
Also on the teamDr. William Sung, DMDFellow of the Academy of General DentistryWhat patients get here that they do not get everywhere
- A compassionate and gentle approach from Dr. Dave Cho, Dr. William Sung and the team.
- Advanced techniques that maximise tooth preservation. The less that comes out, the longer the tooth lasts.
- Personalized treatment tailored to your needs.
- Natural-looking results you’ll feel confident sharing with the world.
- Honest advice and clear communication every step of the way.
We know that visiting the dentist can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we take the time to listen, explain your options, and work together toward the healthiest, most natural restoration possible.
The Path
What happens, step by step.
Comprehensive examination
The tooth is examined for decay, cracks and structural damage, with digital x‑rays where they are needed.
Gentle preparation
Local anaesthetic, then only the compromised tissue removed. Healthy structure stays.
Layered placement
Thin layers of resin, each cured under the light, so the bond holds and no gaps are left.
Shaping and polishing
Contoured to the tooth’s own anatomy so the bite feels normal, then polished to a gloss that resists staining.
Start at step one.
Most fillings are done in a single visit. Book, and tell us which tooth it is.
Book an appointmentOr call (281) 769-8878
The full detail of each stage
1. Comprehensive examination. Dr. Dave Cho will carefully examine the affected tooth or teeth, looking for signs of decay, cracks, or structural damage. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, we may take digital X-rays for a clearer, more detailed view of the internal structures. The goals at this stage are identifying all areas of concern, early detection of hidden cavities, and a customized plan tailored to your needs.
2. Gentle preparation. We gently administer local anesthesia to numb the area, then carefully remove the decayed or damaged parts of the tooth. Our technique is minimally invasive, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible for better long-term strength and support.
3. Layered filling placement. The composite material is placed in carefully controlled layers, each thin layer applied and then hardened using a dental curing light. Layering strengthens the filling and lets Dr. Dave Cho shape the material with precision. It provides a strong bond, reduces the chance of gaps or leaks, and ensures an even distribution of material. The shade is selected to match your natural teeth.
4. Shaping and polishing. Dr. Dave Cho sculpts and contours the filling to match the natural anatomy of your tooth so the bite feels comfortable, then polishes it to a glossy finish, which improves appearance and prevents staining and plaque buildup.
The Alternatives
How it compares.
Composite, against amalgam.
CompositeAmalgam
Matched to the tooth’s own shade.Silver, and visible.
Bonds chemically to the tooth.Sits inside the cavity.
Less healthy enamel removed.More preparation required.
Mercury free.Contains mercury.
Can stain with coffee, tea or red wine.Does not stain.
Where a tooth has more filling in it than tooth, neither is the answer any more — that one needs a crown.
Making one last
Five to ten years is the average. Size, hygiene and grinding are what move it either way.
- BrushTwice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste.
- FlossDaily, to clear plaque between the teeth and at the gumline.
- AvoidBiting ice, hard candy and popcorn kernels, especially on a fresh restoration.
- LimitCoffee, tea and red wine, which stain resin over time.
- ReturnFor checkups, so a filling is monitored before it fails.
The Cost
What it costs, before it starts.
A filling is the cheapest thing on this whole list of services, and it stays that way only while the cavity is small.
One visitIn most cases
Examined, prepared, filled and polished in a single appointment.
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What moves the number
How large the cavity is, where the tooth sits, and how many surfaces the filling has to cover.
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Insurance and financing
Fillings are the most commonly covered restoration there is. See insurance and financing and the savings plan.
The Proof
What Katy patients say about being here.
The staff here is super friendly and informative. Just had my cleaning and exams done, and they were thorough without being rough. The dental filling went really well, didn’t hurt one bit, and they took extra care to ensure it looked great. Overall, a very clear and calm vibe in the office. Highly recommend checking them out for your family dentistry needs.
Really quick and easy, i was in and out for a teeth cleaning and loved every second. i am i first time customer and i will be returning soon. Doctor Tiffany and Dr Cho were VERY helpful and nice, accommodating my needs and request!
anjana dade
Had my cleaning and exams today, and the staff was super friendly. They explained everything in detail and made me feel at ease. Not just a routine visit, more like a mini spa for my teeth. A great feeling knowing they really look after your health too. Highly suggest making this place your go to.
Oluwatoyin Dominic
Very friendly staff and were willing to help in every way! Felt more comfortable here than at any other dentist office in the past, highly recommend!
Gabriel Sanchez
Questions
Questions patients ask before they decide.
What are composite fillings made of?
Composite fillings are crafted from a combination of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles. This mixture produces a durable, tooth-colored material that bonds tightly to your natural tooth structure for a seamless repair.
Is getting a composite filling painful?
The process is generally painless. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area completely before treatment begins. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
Can I replace my old metal fillings with composite fillings?
Yes. Many patients choose to replace old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings for a more natural appearance. Dr. Dave Cho can assess your current restorations and recommend safe replacement options if appropriate.
How do I care for my composite fillings after placement?
Brush and floss daily, avoid excessive biting on hard objects, and keep up regular dental checkups. Good oral hygiene protects both your natural teeth and your restorations.
Do composite fillings stain over time?
While composite fillings are resistant to stains, they can occasionally pick up discoloration from foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine. Regular cleanings help minimize staining and keep your fillings looking good.
How long do they last?
On average, resin fillings last between 5 and 10 years. With excellent care and routine dental visits they can last longer. The size and location of the filling, your oral hygiene habits, and how much wear comes from chewing or grinding are what decide it. We monitor every restoration during your exams.
The Invitation
Ask about this one.
Book online or call, and say which tooth it is. A cavity found this year is a filling; the same cavity in two years is a crown.
- Hours
- Mon to Wed 9am to 6pm
Thu 9am to 5pm
Fri to Sun Closed - Emergencies
- Call the practice. We keep same day slots for pain, breaks and knocked out teeth.
