Q1. What is a dental filling and when do I need one?

A dental filling is a restorative material used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay (a cavity), a minor fracture, or normal wear. When bacteria in plaque produce acids that dissolve tooth enamel, the result is a cavity a hole in the tooth that will continue to grow larger if left untreated. A filling removes the decayed portion of the tooth, cleans and disinfects the area, and fills the space with a durable material that restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and function. At Summerlin Dental Solutions, Dr. Cohan uses our AI-assisted diagnostic imaging to detect cavities at their earliest stage  often before they become visible to the naked eye or cause any symptoms. Catching decay early means a smaller filling, more preserved tooth structure, and a longer-lasting restoration.

Q2. What types of dental fillings are available at Summerlin Dental Solutions?

Dr. Cohan offers tooth-colored composite resin fillings as the standard of care at Summerlin Dental Solutions. Composite resin is a blend of medical-grade plastic and glass particles that is matched precisely to the shade of your natural teeth, making the filling virtually invisible once placed. Unlike older silver amalgam fillings, composite bonds directly to the tooth structure, which means less healthy tooth needs to be removed during preparation and the tooth is actually strengthened by the restoration. For larger restorations where a standard filling may not provide sufficient strength, Dr. Cohan may recommend an inlay or onlay  a custom-fabricated porcelain or composite restoration that combines the conservative approach of a filling with the durability of a crown. She will explain the options clearly during your consultation and recommend the approach that gives you the best long-term outcome.

Q3. Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver amalgam fillings?

Modern composite resin fillings have improved dramatically in both strength and longevity and are now considered an excellent choice for most filling applications, including back teeth that bear chewing forces. While amalgam fillings were historically valued for their durability, composite technology has advanced to the point where well-placed composite fillings routinely last 10 to 15 years or longer. Composite also offers significant advantages that amalgam cannot match: it bonds directly to tooth structure (reducing the need for extensive preparation), it contains no mercury, it does not expand and contract with temperature changes the way metal does (which can cause microfractures over time), and it is aesthetically invisible. Dr. Cohan’s Operative Dentistry Award recognizes her clinical precision in placing restorations, and that precision is what determines how long any filling will last  material matters, but technique matters more.

Q4. How much do dental fillings cost in Las Vegas?

The cost of a dental filling in Las Vegas depends on the size and location of the cavity, the number of tooth surfaces involved, and the material used. A single-surface composite resin filling typically ranges from $150 to $300, while larger multi-surface fillings can cost $250 to $500 or more. Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings as a “basic” restorative service at 70–80% after your deductible. At Summerlin Dental Solutions, our front office team verifies your insurance benefits before treatment and provides a clear cost estimate so you know exactly what to expect. For any out-of-pocket costs, we offer 0% interest financing through HFD with approval in under a minute and no impact on your credit score. Investing in a filling today is always more affordable than the crown, root canal, or extraction that becomes necessary when a small cavity is allowed to grow.

Q5. Does getting a dental filling hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during a filling procedure. Dr. Cohan uses local anesthesia to numb the treatment area completely before beginning, so you should not feel any pain only mild pressure. For patients who experience dental anxiety, even for a routine filling, Summerlin Dental Solutions offers sedation dentistry options including nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for gentle relaxation, oral sedation for deeper calm, and IV sedation for patients who prefer to feel as though they slept through the appointment. Our spa-like comfort amenities warm blankets, noise-canceling headphones, complimentary beverages, and personal entertainment screens at every treatment chair  make even a routine filling feel like something other than a typical dental visit. Our team is the friendliest you will ever encounter at a dental office, and they will check on you throughout the procedure to make sure you are completely comfortable.

Q6. How long does it take to get a dental filling?

A single filling typically takes 20 to 40 minutes from start to finish, depending on the size and location of the cavity. If multiple fillings are needed, Dr. Cohan can often complete several in a single appointment, saving you the inconvenience of multiple visits. The process involves numbing the area, removing the decayed tooth structure with precision instruments, cleaning and disinfecting the cavity, placing the composite resin in layers with each layer light-cured for optimal bonding, and shaping and polishing the restoration to match your natural bite and tooth contour. The efficiency of our digital X-rays and AI-assisted diagnostics means less time spent on diagnosis and more time spent on delivering a precise, beautiful result. Our centrally located Summerlin office at 851 S Rampart Blvd is easily accessible from The Summit, The Ridges, Queensridge, and all surrounding areas, making it convenient to fit a filling appointment into your schedule.

Q7. How long do dental fillings last?

The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material used, the size and location of the filling, your bite forces, and your oral hygiene habits. A well-placed composite resin filling typically lasts 10 to 15 years, with many lasting even longer when combined with consistent preventive care visits and good daily oral hygiene. Larger fillings and fillings on teeth that bear heavy chewing forces may have a shorter lifespan. Dr. Cohan monitors every filling at each check-up visit, looking for early signs of wear, chipping, staining, or marginal leakage that indicate it may be time for replacement. Catching a failing filling early means it can typically be replaced with another filling rather than escalating to a more extensive restoration like a crown. This proactive monitoring is part of the comprehensive care approach that has earned Summerlin Dental Solutions 19 Best of Las Vegas awards.

Q8. Can I replace my old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings?

Yes, and many patients at Summerlin Dental Solutions choose to do exactly that. There are several reasons patients opt for amalgam replacement: cosmetic concerns (silver fillings darken over time and can cause surrounding tooth structure to appear grayish), structural concerns (older amalgam fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially causing microcracks in the tooth over decades), mercury concerns (while the FDA and ADA consider dental amalgam safe for most adults, some patients prefer to eliminate mercury-containing materials from their mouths), or simply because an old filling has reached the end of its functional life and needs replacement. Dr. Cohan carefully evaluates each amalgam filling using AI-assisted diagnostics and digital imaging to determine whether replacement is warranted and develops a priority-based plan if multiple fillings are involved. For patients concerned about mercury exposure during removal, our office follows established safety protocols including high-volume suction and rubber dam isolation.

Q9. How does Dr. Cohan detect cavities that need fillings?

Dr. Cohan uses a multi-layered diagnostic approach that goes far beyond the traditional visual exam and metal explorer. Our advanced technology suite includes AI-assisted radiological analysis that reviews every diagnostic image alongside Dr. Cohan, identifying decay patterns in their earliest stages  often before they would be visible on a standard X-ray or detectable during a visual exam. Digital X-rays deliver instant imaging at up to 90% less radiation than conventional film and can reveal decay between teeth (interproximal cavities) that is impossible to see clinically. The 3D CBCT scanner can be used for complex cases where the extent of decay near the nerve chamber needs to be precisely mapped. And our dual-screen exam rooms allow Dr. Cohan to show you exactly what she sees, pointing out the cavity on screen so you understand the diagnosis and can make an informed decision about treatment. This diagnostic thoroughness is why patients trust Summerlin Dental Solutions to catch problems early, when treatment is simplest and most affordable.

Q10. What happens if I wait too long to get a cavity filled?

A cavity is a bacterial infection of the tooth, and like any infection, it only gets worse with time. A small cavity that could be resolved with a simple, affordable filling can grow into a large cavity that requires a more extensive and expensive dental crown. If the decay reaches the nerve chamber (pulp) of the tooth, root canal therapy becomes necessary to save the tooth followed by a crown to protect the weakened structure. If the infection becomes severe enough, the tooth may not be salvageable at all, leading to extraction and the need for a dental implant, bridge, or denture to replace it. The cost difference between a $200 filling and a $3,000–$5,000 implant case illustrates why early treatment is so important. Regular preventive visits at Summerlin Dental Solutions catch cavities while they are still small, saving you time, money, and discomfort.

Q11. Are dental fillings safe during pregnancy?

Yes, dental fillings are generally considered safe during pregnancy, and the American Dental Association recommends that necessary dental treatment should not be postponed because of pregnancy. Untreated dental infections can actually pose a greater risk to both mother and baby than the treatment itself. The safest time for elective dental treatment during pregnancy is the second trimester, but urgent treatment like a filling for an active cavity can be performed at any stage. Dr. Cohan uses local anesthetics that are safe for pregnant patients and avoids medications that are contraindicated during pregnancy. Digital X-rays at Summerlin Dental Solutions use up to 90% less radiation than conventional film, and a lead apron with thyroid collar provides additional protection. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, let our team know at the time of scheduling so Dr. Cohan can tailor your care plan accordingly.

Q12. What technology does Summerlin Dental Solutions use for dental fillings?

Summerlin Dental Solutions has invested in the most advanced dental technology available to make every filling more precise, more comfortable, and more durable. Our AI-assisted radiological analysis system catches early-stage decay that traditional methods often miss, meaning your cavities are detected when they are smallest and easiest to treat. The 3D CBCT scanner maps complex cases where decay is close to the nerve, helping Dr. Cohan determine whether a conservative filling will suffice or whether more extensive treatment is needed. Digital X-rays provide instant imaging at 90% less radiation. Our soft tissue laser can treat minor gum tissue that has grown over a cavity site with less discomfort than traditional instruments. The TRIOS digital scanner captures precise impressions when inlays or onlays are recommended as an alternative to traditional fillings. Dual-screen exam rooms display your diagnostic images in real time so you see the cavity before treatment begins and understand exactly what Dr. Cohan is recommending. And our computerized shade-matching technology ensures every composite filling blends invisibly with your natural tooth color.

Q13. What are Dr. Cohan’s qualifications for performing dental fillings?

Dental fillings may seem straightforward, but the difference between a filling that lasts five years and one that lasts fifteen comes down to the skill and precision of the dentist placing it. Dr. Marianne Cohan earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo with dual honors, including the Operative Dentistry Award  the highest academic recognition for excellence in restorative procedures like fillings, crowns, and direct restorations. This is the exact clinical discipline that applies to every filling she places. With more than 31 years of experience and over 25 years serving Las Vegas, she has placed tens of thousands of fillings and refined a technique that prioritizes maximum preservation of healthy tooth structure, optimal bonding for longevity, and invisible shade matching. She is an AACD Accredited Member (fewer than 1% of dentists), a Best Dentist in America through peer nomination, and a 19-time Best of Las Vegas winner. She maintains memberships in the AAFE, AAID, ADA, Academy of Laser Dentistry, and Academy of General Dentistry. For a procedure where precision is everything, you genuinely could not be in better hands.

Q14. Can I get a filling and other dental work done in the same appointment?

Yes, and in many cases this is the most efficient approach. If you need multiple fillings, or if a filling is part of a larger treatment plan that includes preventive cleaning, cosmetic treatments, or other restorative work, Dr. Cohan will design an appointment plan that maximizes what can be accomplished in each visit while respecting your comfort. Multiple fillings in the same quadrant of the mouth can almost always be completed in a single appointment since the same area is already numb. For patients traveling from Henderson, Centennial Hills, or other communities farther from Summerlin, consolidating treatment into fewer visits is especially valuable and something Dr. Cohan’s team is happy to coordinate.

Q15. Does dental insurance cover fillings in Las Vegas?

Yes. Dental fillings are one of the most commonly covered procedures in dental insurance plans. Most insurers cover composite (tooth-colored) fillings as a “basic” restorative service at 70–80% after your deductible is met. Some older plans may pay composite at the amalgam rate and require the patient to pay the difference, though this practice is becoming less common. At Summerlin Dental Solutions, our front office team verifies your benefits before treatment, submits pre-authorization when required, and provides a clear breakdown of your estimated costs. Visit our insurance and financial information page for a list of accepted plans. For any remaining balance, 0% interest financing through HFD is available with approval in under a minute and no credit impact. HSA and FSA accounts can also be used toward filling costs.

Q16. Where is the closest filling dentist to The Summit, The Ridges, and Queensridge?

Summerlin Dental Solutions is located at 851 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145 centrally positioned in the heart of Summerlin between Tivoli Village and Boca Park. Queensridge residents are just 5–10 minutes away and can easily fit a filling appointment into a lunch break or morning errand run. The Summit residents reach our office in approximately 10–12 minutes via Town Center Drive and Rampart Boulevard. The Ridges residents connect via Rampart or the 215 Beltway in a similarly short drive. All three communities are among Summerlin’s most distinguished, and residents appreciate having a dentist whose Operative Dentistry Award, AI-assisted cavity detection, and meticulous technique ensure that even a simple filling is done to the highest standard. Call (702) 341-9160 to schedule your appointment.

Q17. Can patients from Henderson get dental fillings at Summerlin Dental Solutions?

Yes. Henderson, Green Valley, and Anthem residents reach our Summerlin office in approximately 25–30 minutes via the 215 Beltway. While there are certainly dentists closer to Henderson, patients make the drive to Summerlin Dental Solutions because of Dr. Cohan’s diagnostic precision  specifically her AI-assisted imaging that catches decay earlier and more accurately than standard methods her Operative Dentistry Award-caliber filling technique, and the overall experience in our spa-like, newly renovated office. Many Henderson patients schedule their filling appointments alongside other services to make the most of each visit, and our team is happy to coordinate multi-procedure appointments that respect both your time and your comfort.

Q18. Is there a dentist near Centennial Hills and Spring Valley for same-day fillings?

Yes. Summerlin Dental Solutions serves patients from throughout the Las Vegas Valley including Centennial Hills, North Las Vegas, and Spring Valley. Centennial Hills residents travel south on the 215 or US-95 in approximately 20–25 minutes, while Spring Valley patients are just 10–15 minutes south along the 215 Beltway. Both communities represent significant portions of our patient base, and patients from these areas frequently tell us they discovered our practice through word-of-mouth from friends and coworkers who were impressed by the invisible quality of their composite fillings and the comfortable, anxiety-free experience. When your schedule allows, Dr. Cohan can often diagnose and fill a cavity in a single visit, eliminating the need for a separate diagnostic appointment.

Q19. How do I care for my teeth after getting a filling?

Caring for a filled tooth is essentially the same as caring for your natural teeth: brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and maintain regular preventive care visits at Summerlin Dental Solutions every six months. Immediately after your appointment, the filling is fully cured and ready for normal function, though you should wait until the local anesthesia wears off before eating to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal for the first few days and typically resolves on its own. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, Dr. Cohan may recommend a custom night guard to protect both your fillings and your natural teeth from excessive wear. At each check-up visit, Dr. Cohan inspects every filling for signs of wear, staining, or marginal breakdown so any issues can be addressed early.

Q20. How do I schedule a filling appointment at Summerlin Dental Solutions?

Call (702) 341-9160 and let our team know you need a filling evaluation or that you have been told you have a cavity that needs treatment. You can also book online through our website or begin with a virtual consultation from home. New patients can complete patient forms online before arriving to save time. Your visit includes a comprehensive examination with Dr. Cohan, advanced diagnostic imaging to identify all areas of concern, a clear explanation of findings with visual evidence on our dual-screen monitors, a treatment plan with cost estimates and insurance verification, and  when your schedule allows  same-day filling placement so you leave with the problem resolved. We are located at 851 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 230, Las Vegas, NV 89145, in the heart of Summerlin near Tivoli Village and Boca Park. We proudly serve patients from The Summit, The Ridges, Queensridge, Henderson, Centennial Hills, Spring Valley, and all surrounding communities throughout the Las Vegas Valley.

The Summit

One of Summerlin’s most prestigious guard-gated communities, The Summit is approximately 10–12 minutes from our office via Town Center Drive and Rampart Boulevard. Summit residents trust Dr. Cohan for the same standard of excellence they expect in every aspect of their lives — fillings that are invisible, precise, and built to last, placed using AI-assisted diagnostics and the most advanced restorative techniques available.

The Ridges

Nestled against Red Rock Canyon, The Ridges is a short drive from Summerlin Dental Solutions via Rampart Boulevard or the 215 Beltway. Ridges families appreciate Dr. Cohan’s meticulous approach to even the simplest procedures. A filling may take only 30 minutes, but the diagnostic precision and clinical technique behind it reflect 31 years of experience and an Operative Dentistry Award.

Queensridge

Our closest neighboring community at just 5–10 minutes from our front door. Queensridge residents can schedule a filling during a lunch break and be back home or at the office within the hour. Many Queensridge families have trusted Dr. Cohan for over two decades, and she has monitored and maintained their fillings through every stage of life.

Henderson

Henderson, Green Valley, and Anthem patients reach our Summerlin office in approximately 25–30 minutes via the 215 Beltway. Henderson patients choose Summerlin Dental Solutions because Dr. Cohan’s AI-assisted cavity detection catches decay earlier, her Operative Dentistry Award technique ensures fillings that last, and the newly renovated spa-like office makes even a routine filling feel like a premium experience.

Centennial Hills

North Las Vegas and Centennial Hills residents travel south on the 215 or US-95 in approximately 20–25 minutes. This growing community is one of our fastest-expanding patient bases, with families choosing Summerlin Dental Solutions for everything from children’s first fillings to complex restorative cases — all under one roof with one trusted doctor.

Spring Valley

Located just south of Summerlin along the 215 Beltway, Spring Valley patients reach our office in 10–15 minutes. As one of our largest patient communities, Spring Valley residents discover us through word-of-mouth and stay because of the invisible quality of our composite fillings, the comfort of the experience, and the team’s genuine warmth.

AI-Assisted Radiology

Our artificial intelligence diagnostic system reviews every radiographic image alongside Dr. Cohan, identifying early-stage decay patterns — including tiny interproximal cavities between teeth — that can be invisible on standard visual examination. For filling patients, this means cavities are caught when they are smallest, treatment is least invasive, and the restoration preserves the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure.

3D CBCT Scanner

For complex cases where decay is suspected near the nerve chamber, the cone beam CT scanner provides a three-dimensional view that reveals the exact depth and extent of the cavity, helping Dr. Cohan determine whether a conservative filling will be sufficient or whether a crown or root canal may be needed. This eliminates guesswork and prevents both under-treatment and over-treatment.

Digital X-Rays

Delivering instant diagnostic images at up to 90% less radiation than conventional film, digital X-rays are the frontline tool for detecting cavities. Between-teeth decay that is completely invisible during a visual exam shows clearly on digital radiographs, which is why regular X-ray intervals are so important during preventive visits.

Soft Tissue Laser

When gum tissue has grown over or near a cavity site (subgingival decay), our soft tissue laser can gently and precisely remove the tissue to access the cavity with minimal bleeding, no sutures, and faster healing than traditional methods. This enables Dr. Cohan to treat cavities that other offices might refer to a specialist.

TRIOS Digital Scanner

For larger restorations like inlays and onlays that are lab-fabricated as an alternative to traditional fillings, the TRIOS scanner captures precise digital impressions in minutes without messy putty trays, ensuring a perfect fit and reducing turnaround time.

Dual-Screen Exam Rooms

Every treatment room features dual monitors that display your X-rays and diagnostic images in real time. Dr. Cohan shows you the cavity before treatment, explains its size and location, and discusses the recommended approach. This visual evidence-based approach eliminates uncertainty and ensures you understand and agree with the treatment plan before any work begins.

Computerized Shade Matching

The color of a composite filling must precisely match the surrounding natural tooth to be invisible. Our shade-matching technology analyzes the color, translucency, and value of your tooth and selects the composite shade that will blend seamlessly — so no one will ever know you have a filling.

Schedule Your Filling Appointment

Call (702) 341-9160 or book online today.

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851 S Rampart Blvd, Suite 230  •  Las Vegas, NV 89145  •  Near Tivoli Village & Boca Park