Tooth-colored fillings
in Waupaca
— restore your tooth without anyone knowing it was ever treated
Modern composite resin fillings match your natural tooth color so precisely that even you won’t be able to tell which tooth was treated. At Crystal River Dental, we use only advanced, tooth-colored materials for a restorative result that looks and feels completely natural.

Biocompatible Matrix • No silver, no mercury, no compromise

Tooth-colored, mercury-free, and bonded directly to your tooth

Composite resin restorations represent a leap forward from historical metal filling frameworks. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, which are packed mechanically into a hollow space and require extensive tooth destruction, composite materials bond chemically directly to your natural enamel and dentin architecture.

This molecular adhesion reinforces and supports the remaining enamel structures from within, significantly decreasing the risk of future structural fractures. Because the composite bonds so securely, Dr. Piontek can practice ultra-conservative dentistry — removing only infected decay layout fields while leaving healthy tooth crystal completely intact.

Filling Parameters Baseline

Appointment Span: Single-visit delivery block

Anesthesia Protocol: Localized comfort tracking
Aesthetic Metric: Precisely shade-matched to natural tooth color
Structural Impact: Strengthens remaining tooth structure
Insurance Standard: Most plans cover • Same-day: yes
Amalgam Replacement Protocol

Is it time to upgrade your historical silver fillings?

Many patients with old silver amalgam fillings ask about having them replaced with tooth-colored composite. Here’s an honest answer about when it makes sense — and when it doesn’t.

Good reasons to replace amalgam

The filling is old, cracked, or failing

The tooth has developed secondary decay around the filling

You want a more natural appearance

The metal is visible when you smile or talk

You have mercury sensitivity concerns

When replacement may not be necessary

The filling is intact, well-sealed, and functioning well

Removing a sound amalgam involves additional drilling

No current clinical evidence requiring immediate amalgam removal in healthy patients

We'll assess each filling individually and give you an honest recommendation

Our approach to amalgam replacement

“We evaluate each amalgam filling on its own merits. If replacement is appropriate — due to age, failure, decay, or your preference — we remove it safely and replace it with a matched composite restoration. We never recommend replacement purely for commercial reasons.”

Material Bio-Metrics

The Key Performance Differences

Composite (tooth-colored)

Matches natural tooth color exactly

Bonds to tooth — strengthens structure

Requires less tooth removal

Mercury-free

Expands and contracts with temperature similarly to tooth

Amalgam (silver)

Silver/gray color — visible when speaking or smiling

Mechanically retained — doesn't bond to tooth

Requires more healthy structure to be removed

Contains mercury (stable when intact)

Can expand and crack tooth over time with temperature cycling

Clinical Workflow
The Filling Process — Done in One Visit

01

Anesthesia & prep

Local anesthesia applied. Decay or old filling material removed. Conservative — only what needs to come out comes out.


02

Shade matching

Composite resin shade selected to match natural tooth color precisely. The match is so accurate the filling is virtually invisible.


03

Placement & curing

Composite placed in layers and hardened with a curing light. Each layer shaped and polished to restore natural tooth contour and bite.


04

Done in one visit

Entire process completed in a single appointment. You leave with a finished, polished, fully functional restoration the same day.


Fillings that look natural and last — placed with care at Crystal River Dental in Waupaca

Mercury-free practice

We prioritize your long-term health values by relying exclusively on modern composite tooth restoration systems across all operations.

Precise shade matching

We take time to match composite shading to your natural tooth — including characterization, translucency, and surface texture. The result should be undetectable.

Conservative preparation

Composite bonding requires less healthy tooth structure removed than amalgam. We take the most conservative approach that serves you long-term.

Real Patient Feedback

Google reviews

Trusted by local families

4.8 ★★★★★ Google
Anthony Brzozowski
Anthony Brzozowski1 month ago
★★★★★

Had a crown done today, always professional and painless work done by the dentist here at Crystal River Dental ! The staff is always…

Christopher Gudex
Christopher Gudex1 month ago
★★★★★

Very professional and thorough.

Jim Tomasko
Jim Tomasko4 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone is very polite and helpful. I had to make a last minute appointment because of a broken tooth. They got me in fast…..worked…

Marilyn Lange
Marilyn Lange5 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and staff are great. I'm very happy with the excellent care and the efficiency of Crystal River Dental.

Gary Prochnow
Gary Prochnow2 months ago
★★★★★

I had work done in both Waupaca and Wausau locations over the past year. Doctors and staff were excellent. Worked with me financially to…

Kathy Baker
Kathy Baker5 months ago
★★★★★

Hygienist, Angela, very thorough, does an excellent job explaining teeth and toothbrush issues. Reminding me to change the electric toothbrush head more often, perhaps…

bonnie banaszak
bonnie banaszak1 month ago
★★★★★

Thank you for getting me in today you made my day.

Debbie Altenburg
Debbie Altenburg4 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly Staff and the dentist is the best dentist I’ve ever been to 😊

Patrick Kelly
Patrick Kelly4 months ago
★★★★★

They are very friendly an efficient

Mark wheaton
Mark wheaton4 months ago
★★★★★

Great attention to detail.

Karin Nieubuurt
Karin Nieubuurt5 months ago
★★★★★

Staff is always upbeat and friendly.

Mary Lindenmeyer
Mary Lindenmeyer2 weeks ago
★★★★★

You really care about your clients!!! More than the one I had after40 plus years in Waupaca !!! Thank you for caring Mary Lindenmeyer

Karen Galske
Karen Galske4 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Lap Nguyen was the dentist I saw today, and I was very impressed. I recently moved to Waupaca and needed to find new…

Chuck Wieland
Chuck Wieland4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Tina was excellent in what she was doing with my teeth. Was able to get me in a little earlier the schedule. Never a…

Del Volpel
Del Volpel5 months ago
★★★★★

Outstanding care. Professional and compassionate.

Aaron Mueller
Aaron Mueller1 month ago
★★★★★

Very pleased! As an itinerant substitute dentist she did a fantastic and thorough job.

Lynn Eberly
Lynn Eberly4 months ago
★★★★★

I had my bottom teeth removed. I had no bruising, swelling or any pain, just some discomfort at times. I would recommend Crystal River…

Avilomah Ridge
Avilomah Ridge5 months ago
★★★★★

I had dental phobia, but everyone here is so kind, patient and understanding. Dentist does top notch work. They've turned me into a loyal…

Gator G
Gator G3 months ago
★★★★★

Great and helpful always listens to my concerns

Vicki Sommers
Vicki Sommers4 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and efficient, best dentist I've ever had. Due to exposed roots teeth are very sensitive, but they are so careful.

Tracy Karabelas
Tracy Karabelas1 month ago
★★★★★

Love this place & the Dentist! They are efficient, friendly and realistic! They work with you for the best outcomes! Awesome place!

Cliff
Cliff4 months ago
★★★★★

Glad to be here: good listeners, good attention to detail, and hospitable. All make you feel comfortable.

Josh Jahnke
Josh Jahnke5 months ago
★★★★★

Doc was great. Got one tooth pulled didn't feel a thing. Doc was very informative about what I needed to do after. Definitely will…

Chad
Chad4 months ago
★★★★★

It was a great experience, they were very unstanding and very kind.

Kathy Wagner
Kathy Wagner3 months ago
★★★★★

Everything they did was pain free. Thank you

Bonita Erdmann
Bonita Erdmann3 months ago
★★★★★

I was very pleased with the staff and Dr. Matte. Thank you.

Jesus isLord
Jesus isLord2 months ago
★★★★★

The dentist is very cordial and respectful. I appreciate the care she gives.

martine mancini
martine mancini3 months ago
★★★★★

Service was on time and very friendly.

Lynn Anderson
Lynn Anderson5 months ago
★★★★★

I highly recommend Crystal River Dental. Everyone there is professional and kind. I have been treated with care and concern for all my issues….

Marcia Lieske
Marcia Lieske3 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Very thorough, friendly & gentle. They provide detailed explanations of procedures and upfront pricing, which I appreciate. I'm confident that I made…

Cindy Roberts
Cindy Roberts4 months ago
★★★★★

All of the staff are so very friendly. They always get to me on time. They make going to the dentist a nice experience….

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson3 months ago
★★★★★

I had a wonderful experience. The dental hygienist was very nice and was also encouraging to me and my home care. The dentist was…

Lois Richter
Lois Richter3 weeks ago
★★★★★

The staff at Crystal River Dental is very professional, friendly & efficient. I am so happy that I found them.

Janet Kitzrow
Janet Kitzrow4 months ago
★★★★★

I had an exam with Dr Nguyen, that was very thorough. I appreciate his comprehensive oral cancer screening and advice

Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)
Darrell Bartel (Flatlineyourbird)2 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing from when you first walk in the door until you leave. Everyone treats you special and such great care. Explains everything every step…

Randy Thern
Randy Thern4 weeks ago
★★★★★

The cleaning was done in a relatively painless way. The exam was thorough and I was given a reasonable long-term plan for treatment.

Ben Schroeder
Ben Schroeder5 months ago
★★★★★

Great customer service and friendly staff! Outstanding dentist!

Brittany Durrant
Brittany Durrant2 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience! Made me feel very comfortable and wanted to make sure I was okay with all decisions!

Lisa Kasner
Lisa Kasner5 months ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental is a very professional and caring establishment. The atmosphere is relaxing. I have personally had great, informative and quality service everytime….

David Golke
David Golke3 months ago
★★★★★

I've been with crystal river for about a year now and they have been nothing but great! I'd recommend them to anyone in the…

Bpontzloff Bigboyss
Bpontzloff Bigboyss2 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and professional staff.They are honest and do a great job.

Edward McCardell
Edward McCardell5 months ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental does a fantastic job. Hygienist Angela is very thorough and takes the time to explain everything. Very pleased.

Debby Dear
Debby Dear2 months ago
★★★★★

I couldn’t be happier with Crystal River Dental. Everyone from the front desk to the dentist and dental staff are warm, friendly, profession and…

Stephen L Manske
Stephen L Manske3 months ago
★★★★★

I've been really impressed with the service and the quality of work. This visit provides the extra effort I've done has been beneficial.

Linda Mueller
Linda Mueller5 months ago
★★★★★

Every time I’m here the entire staff is friendly, helpful, kind and on top of any and all issues. I’ve had Invisalign here 1…

Mark Forseth
Mark Forseth5 months ago
★★★★★

Excellent care in a friendly and professional manner.

Denny Schroeder
Denny Schroeder4 months ago
★★★★★

Always a pleasant experience Thank you

LRSchuelke
LRSchuelke4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Dentist, associates, & all office staff are absolutely awesome. They don’t treat their patients as a number. They all take time to listen &…

b c (BC)
b c (BC)4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Very through and honest dentist. Sugested but did not try 2 push expensive improvements.

Darrell Bartel
Darrell Bartel2 months ago
★★★★★

Amazing Dental Care. From the Receptionist, throughout the whole process, Everyone makes you feel special. Explains everything and great listeners. Thanks for all you…

Steve and Linda
Steve and Linda4 months ago
★★★★★

They have always done a great job with my regular teeth cleaning. got same day service for removal of two infected wisdom teeth. Entire…

Patricia steinbarth
Patricia steinbarth2 months ago
★★★★★

Very competent and friendly people. Angela did a great job cleaning my teeth.

Cara Frias
Cara Frias5 months ago
★★★★★

Friendly, professional, took the time to answer my questions.

Timothy Hein
Timothy Hein2 weeks ago
★★★★★

Crystal River Dental is a top notch practice from top to bottom. Highly competent and professional. I'm very happy to be their patient.

Anna Gallegos-Hunt
Anna Gallegos-Hunt2 months ago
★★★★★

Dr Nguyen is a very knowledgeable and caring person..he explains options and the why of it all I really like Alicia at the front…

Cindy Cate
Cindy Cate1 month ago
★★★★★

I thought she is very kind and gentle! Gave me good advice for future care!

Tonette Decker
Tonette Decker4 months ago
★★★★★

I like Dr. Nyugen my dentist here at Dental Crystal River – Waupaca very professional , smiles and explained procedures he performs. He gave…

Heather Krueger
Heather Krueger3 months ago
★★★★★

They were very nice and took care of me right from the start

Judith Gudex
Judith Gudex4 months ago
★★★★★

Great experience at Crystal River Dental. My Hygienist, Angela did an outstanding job and I really appreciated meeting Dr. Nguyen. Very professional staff and…

Linda Kubczak
Linda Kubczak2 months ago
★★★★★

Very sad to see Doctor Lap Nguyen had left sure enjoyed going to have him as a dentist. Have a fill in now till…

Ruth Hanson
Ruth Hanson1 month ago
★★★★★

Very thorough exam and nice people!

Mary Robinson
Mary Robinson4 months ago
★★★★★

Great dentist and coworkers!

Julie Johannes
Julie Johannes3 months ago
★★★★★

Met Hygienist Angela today for the first time. She was extremely thoughtful, thorough and educational. The interim Dentist was equally warm and friendly as…

dirk williams
dirk williams3 weeks ago
★★★★★

I had my first visit. I had to miss my first appointment….The staff was very accommodating in rescheduling and meeting my schedule!

Barbara
Barbara4 months ago
★★★★★

I always feel very cared about. 😊 I am cared about as a person compassionately and professionally! 😊

Brenda Sedlar
Brenda Sedlar3 months ago
★★★★★

Everyone there is friendly. The office is spotless and the hygenists are very thorough. Office staff is informative and welcoming.

Sherry Werner
Sherry Werner2 months ago
★★★★★

She was awesome. She was concerned and listened to me

Joel Altenburg
Joel Altenburg5 months ago
★★★★★

I found a diamond of a dentist office in Waupaca, WI . From the reception desk to the dental assistant and more it was…

Joyce Greenholdt
Joyce Greenholdt4 months ago
★★★★★

Dr. Nguyen and all the staff have been friendly, helpful, very skilled, and very good at explaining options and performing procedures w/a minimum of…

Linda Hughes
Linda Hughes5 months ago
★★★★★

The receptionists, the hygienist, Nicole and Dr. Nguyen were all very communicative, professional, efficient and friendly. A dental plan was put in place for…

Beth Ann Zellmer
Beth Ann Zellmer1 month ago
★★★★★

Today, I had a cleaning of my teeth at Crystal Dental. The service I received was excellent. The new dentist was thorough completely, as…

Sharrey Kalbus
Sharrey Kalbus2 months ago
★★★★★

Very professional and friendly.

Cindy Buenning
Cindy Buenning4 months ago
★★★★★

As a first time patient, I was very happy with the hygienist and the dentist.

MJB
MJB1 month ago
★★★★★

Good experience! Dr.Saad, assistant Lisa, and hygienist Angela have all been very professional and helpful. Receptionist and billing make appointments friendly and easy.

Emilie Eppensteiner
Emilie Eppensteiner1 month ago
★★★★

I chatted with hygienist and dentist. Both were nice and knowledgeable. I had a filling done. Went good.

John Charleston
John Charleston4 months ago
★★★★★

Professional and sensitive to patients needs.

Dennis Marten
Dennis Marten3 weeks ago
★★★★★

Very nice, I was totally comfortable. Thanks.

Dale Hazard
Dale Hazard5 months ago
★★★★★

Even being late everyone was pleasant

desiree lucena
desiree lucena1 month ago
★★★★★

A perfect place with super-professional people who provide excellent service. I was extremely satisfied with their work.

Pauline Suhs
Pauline Suhs4 months ago
★★★★★

Very kind and efficient. Friendly staff.

Marlene Germundson
Marlene Germundson4 months ago
★★★★★

The assistants and the doctor are very nice and explains things very well.

Rodney Frankovis
Rodney Frankovis3 months ago
★★★★★

Very good. On time and thorough.

Russell Delgado
Russell Delgado5 months ago
★★★★★

A very good dentist and very nice and friendly

Stacy
Stacy2 months ago
★★★★★

All employees are very nice and listen to ymy issues and explain what needs to be done Angela cleaned my teeth gently and took…

Christal Berg
Christal Berg5 months ago
★★★★★

I feel very comfortable there

Jeanine Kes Bode
Jeanine Kes Bode5 months ago
★★★★★

Always on time. Always very friendly.

Gwynn Schroeder
Gwynn Schroeder3 weeks ago
★★★★★

The appointment was right on time. My cleaning was great without discomfort. Dr. did a check that all was done.

Kevin Killeen
Kevin Killeen5 months ago
★★★★★

Great care, friendly staff. Hard to find a dentist this good and caring but this place is the one to go to.

Tami French
Tami French4 months ago
★★★★★

First experience went awesome & I look forward to my future visits! I broke my tooth and they got me in asap and will…

Kay Konen
Kay Konen1 month ago
★★★★★

Hygienist was great,and Dr.'s explanation of teeth matters explained throughly.

Christine Galyardt
Christine Galyardt3 months ago
★★★★★

Love the dentist! They are very caring and efficient.

Dorene Knolle
Dorene Knolle1 month ago
★★★★★

Every was nice and helpful.

Paul Hanneman
Paul Hanneman2 weeks ago
★★★★★

I appreciate their honest work and explanation of what is going on when I get X-rays and progress reports on if anything is changing.

doc finn
doc finn1 month ago
★★★★★

I'm very pleased with the service and the professionalism at Crystal River dental. I felt well informed and very comfortable with the staff and…

All-Time Greatest Music
All-Time Greatest Music2 months ago
★★★★★

The young lady that cleaned my teeth was very thorough and had a very pleasant personality!

Michael Messing
Michael Messing2 weeks ago
★★★★★

The new dentist was very friendly and good and the hygienist was great.

Deb Ostrander
Deb Ostrander4 months ago
★★★★★

Jan, their dental hygienist did a fabulous job cleaning my teeth. Very knowledgeable and thorough.

Becca Lewis-Clifton
Becca Lewis-Clifton4 weeks ago
★★★★★

After starting in 2022, at CRD, I was happy the practice finally settled down with you Dr Jon as the permanent dentist! WELCOME I…

Sherry Nushart
Sherry Nushart5 months ago
★★★★★

My Hygienist, Angela, was very friendly and thorough. She has nice conversation and lets me answer. You know how hard it is to answer…

Nancy Anderson
Nancy Anderson5 months ago
★★★★★

Very happy with the crown Color was perfect and so was the fit.Thank you!

Heather Meyer
Heather Meyer3 months ago
★★★★★

This dentist made me feel BEYOND comfortable! I have never had a dentist so forward, open, and understanding. I left feeling so happy and…

Alyssa Schauer
Alyssa Schauer3 months ago
★★★★

Dr. B was thorough and I am glad that my son had his chipped tooth filled by him.

Dave N
Dave N3 months ago
★★★★★

Very friendly and great service

Nate Kahler
Nate Kahler1 month ago
★★★★★

First visit to Crystal River Dental. The staff was very accommodating and helpful.

Debra Olsen
Debra Olsen1 month ago
★★★★★

For the first time in my life I am not afraid to go to the dentist. Awesome doc and staff. So thorough and gentle….

Timothy Lemerand
Timothy Lemerand4 months ago
★★★★★

CRD stands behind its work and products Rarely do you see a company that has such integrity.

Jan Niemuth
Jan Niemuth2 weeks ago
★★★★★

Routine 6 mo cleaning and exam today. Punctuality is appreciated. Comfortable, painless procedures done in time alloted with next appointment already scheduled. A real…

Frequently Asked Filling Questions

5–10 years on average, with many lasting longer. Depends on filling size, bite forces, and oral hygiene. We check filling integrity at every recall visit.

For moderate-sized fillings, yes — modern composites are very strong. For very large restorations with high bite forces, an inlay, onlay, or crown may be more appropriate than composite.

If your amalgam fillings are intact and functioning well, there is no urgent clinical reason to replace them. If they are old, cracking, leaking, or you prefer tooth-colored restorations, replacement with composite is a reasonable choice. We evaluate each one individually.

The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia before any preparation begins — you should feel pressure but no pain. Some sensitivity for 1–3 days afterward is normal and resolves on its own.

Most plans cover composite fillings for front teeth at 100% and back teeth at the amalgam rate. Many plans now cover composite for all teeth. We verify your benefits before your appointment.

Related services

Inlays & onlays

For larger cavities where a filling is insufficient — the conservative step between a filling and a crown.

Dental crowns

When a tooth is too damaged for a filling or inlay — full coverage protection.

Teeth whitening

If you’re replacing old fillings, whitening first ensures the new composite is matched to your brightest smile.

Natural-looking, mercury-free, done in one visit. Schedule your filling appointment today.