Composite fillings consist of a tooth-colored resin composed of plastic and some additives. In some cases, there are also glass particles mixed with the plastic.
Made from a tooth-colored resin composed of plastic and additives, sometimes including glass particles for added strength.
Although mostly used for treating cavities, a composite filling can also improve a tooth's cosmetic appearance, such as reshaping a tooth.
Provides a natural, tooth-colored appearance that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
More durable but significantly more visible in the mouth and more expensive than composite fillings.
Closer to natural tooth color but can be quite costly compared to composite options.
More visible and requires more drilling than composite fillings, but may last longer.
Offer a balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability for most patients.
"For many patients, composite fillings offer a balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability."
If a patient has tooth decay, a composite filling may be the solution. According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay.
Composite fillings primarily fix tooth decay. They can also fix cracks, chips, and tooth wear. This helps to restore a tooth's function and health.
Compared to other filling types, composite fillings are very subtle. Our dentist can color match the filling to the surrounding teeth. Many patients prefer this natural appearance.
Composite fillings bond well with the treated tooth. It can help to strengthen and support the remaining natural tooth. This filling provides support to prevent or slow the worsening of further tooth damage.
Relative to other filling types, especially silver amalgam, composite filling requires little drilling. These fillings can fit into small cavity spaces. This results in patients keeping more of their natural teeth.
Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile or speak.
Requires less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to other filling materials, preserving more of your natural tooth.
Can be used for both front and back teeth, making them suitable for a wide range of dental restoration needs.
More affordable than gold or porcelain fillings while providing excellent aesthetics and functionality.
"According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay."
Although composite fillings are the most popular type of filling, they are not always the right choice for every patient.
Some people prefer the appearance of gold fillings, and they are more durable than composite fillings, lasting 10 or more years longer.
Closer to the surrounding teeth in color, but can be quite costly compared to composite fillings.
May last about five years longer than a composite filling, but requires more drilling and is more visible.
According to the American Dental Association, composite fillings can also take longer to place than other types of fillings.
Compared to silver amalgam, a composite filling can be more expensive. However, this may depend on insurance coverage. However, it is less costly than gold and porcelain filling.
Some people may have a specific aesthetic preference for a different kind of filling, such as the appearance of gold fillings.
Patients should discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option with our dentist before making a decision.
"Although composite fillings are the most popular type of filling, they are not always the right choice for every patient."
Various situations may call for a filling. The most common is tooth decay. Typically, a filling is the least invasive procedure for correcting decay.
The most common reason for needing a filling. A filling is typically the least invasive procedure for correcting decay.
People who have teeth with cracks, chips, and wear can also choose to have a filling to restore teeth.
In some cases, a filling can also fill small holes formed for reasons other than tooth decay.
Dentists sometimes offer procedures to correct discoloration or misshapen teeth for cosmetic-only purposes.
Patients of all ages can have situations that require a filling. However, these situations are less common for children who do not yet have their permanent teeth.
According to the previously mentioned National Institute of Health survey, 85% of adults have at least one filling before 34.
The probability of needing a filling can also vary significantly depending on oral hygiene practices.
Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene can help prevent the need for fillings and maintain optimal oral health.
"Patients of all ages can have situations that require a filling."
Composite fillings are tooth-colored resin fillings made from plastic and additives, sometimes including glass particles. They provide natural appearance and good durability for cavity treatment.
Benefits include natural appearance, strong bonding to teeth, minimal drilling required, and the ability to fix decay, cracks, chips, and tooth wear while maintaining aesthetics.
Composite fillings may not last as long as gold or porcelain fillings, can take longer to place than other types, and may be more expensive than silver amalgam depending on insurance coverage.
Anyone with tooth decay, cracks, chips, or tooth wear may need fillings. Patients of all ages can require fillings, with 85% of adults having at least one filling before age 34.
A diet low in sugary and acidic foods, rich in calcium and phosphorus, and including plenty of water can help prevent tooth decay and maintain oral health.
Fluoride mouthwash helps strengthen tooth enamel, prevent cavities, and provide additional protection against tooth decay between dental visits.
Preventive care helps catch problems early when they're easier and less expensive to treat, preventing the need for more complex and costly procedures later.
Typically, we will numb the area before removing any decayed or damaged tooth enamel with a drill or laser. Then, we will clean and dry the area. Our dentist may probe the treatment site to check for any missed decay. Finally, we fill the cavity with the patient's filling material of choice.
Composite fillings are usually more expensive than silver amalgam but less than gold or porcelain. Every insurance plan is different. People should make sure to contact their insurance provider to learn more about composite filling coverage before seeking treatment.
According to WebMD, good dental hygiene practices can help with filling care. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes, floss, and use mouthwash. Also, visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Patients may experience some sensitivity or discomfort around the treatment area. However, these symptoms are normal and temporary. In rare cases, patients may have an allergic reaction to some filling types; however, this is uncommon with composites.
Composite fillings typically last an average of seven years. However, a study from the Journal of Dental Research found that they can last for 10 or more years if the fillings are smaller and the patient has good oral health. Patients who take good care of their oral health and hygiene can lengthen their composite filling lifespan.
Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person's teeth, gums and/or bite.
Tooth decay is when the enamel of the tooth begins to decay and cause erosion from plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Dental caries are also known as cavities and result from a lack of proper oral hygiene leaving plaque that forms tiny holes in the teeth.
A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.
A dental filling involves restoring the structure of the tooth by using metal, alloy, porcelain or plastic to fill the tooth.
A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.
Dental sealants contain a resinous material that we apply to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth to prevent dental caries.
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.
Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.
Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.
Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.
Tooth enamel is the protective visible outer surface of a tooth that contains the dentin and dental pulp.
If you have a tooth that requires a filling, do not hesitate to seek treatment. Our team at myDentist El Monte can help restore your oral health with natural-looking composite fillings.