Yes — modern composite resins are durable enough for both front and back teeth, including molars under heavy chewing load. The key difference is that composite bonds to the tooth chemically, which actually reinforces the remaining structure. Amalgam relies on mechanical retention and requires more drilling. Well-placed composite fillings in non-extreme situations last 10–15 years with normal care.

It depends on their condition. Amalgam fillings that are cracked, corroded, leaking, or causing micro-fractures in the surrounding tooth are worth replacing — both for structural and health reasons. Fillings that are intact and asymptomatic are lower priority. That said, many patients choose to proactively replace amalgam for biocompatibility reasons, and we support that decision. If you want to explore it, we'll assess each filling honestly and tell you which ones actually need attention. Schedule a consultation here.

SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique — a protocol developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). When amalgam is ground down the conventional way, it releases a spike of mercury vapor that can be inhaled by the patient, the dentist, and the assistant. The SMART protocol prevents this by sectioning the filling into chunks, using a rubber dam to isolate the tooth, and applying high-volume suction to capture vapor at the source. It's the safest way to remove amalgam fillings, and it's the only method we use at Fairlington Dental.

BPA (bisphenol A) is a chemical found in some composite resins that has raised concerns as a potential endocrine disruptor. Not all composites contain BPA — the specific monomers used in the resin determine whether BPA is present or can form as a byproduct. At Fairlington Dental, we use composites that are explicitly BPA-free, which is particularly important for patients who are pregnant, have young children, or are health-conscious about what materials go into their bodies long-term.

With proper care, composite fillings typically last 10–15 years. Longevity depends on the size and location of the filling (larger fillings in high-stress areas wear faster), your oral hygiene habits, whether you grind your teeth, and the quality of placement. We use high-quality composites and take care with layering and curing technique — both of which meaningfully affect how long a filling lasts. Regular cleanings let us catch any wear or marginal breakdown early before it becomes a bigger issue.

The procedure itself is done under local anesthesia — you'll feel pressure but not pain. Some sensitivity in the first few days after a filling is normal, particularly to hot and cold, and typically resolves on its own. Deep fillings close to the nerve can occasionally cause prolonged sensitivity, which we'll discuss with you before the appointment if it's a consideration for your specific tooth. We also offer sedation options for patients with dental anxiety. Call us at 703.671.1001 with any questions before you come in.

Several factors influence the cost of a filling: the size of the cavity (how many tooth surfaces are involved), which tooth it's on, the material used, and your insurance coverage. Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings at least partially, though some older plans still pay only up to the cost of amalgam and bill you the difference. We verify your benefits before your appointment and walk you through your out-of-pocket estimate. We also offer flexible payment options. See our financial options here.