Restore the Healthy Function and Beautiful Brilliance of Your Smile with Composite Fillings
Pearls of Dentistry offers the latest dental filling technology to repair cavities and minor tooth damage. Drs. Lynne Thomas and Juergen Langenbach use composite fillings as a simple and easy solution for restoring your teeth’s form and function. Unlike amalgam fillings popular years ago, composite is colored to match the shade of your natural teeth to generate undetectable results. If you need a tooth filling in San Diego, California, schedule an appointment today with our dental team. We can’t wait to give you a healthy, cavity-free smile.
What should I expect when getting a filling?
Placing a composite filling is a minimally invasive procedure often completed in a single dental visit. The dentist begins the treatment by inspecting the tooth in question to determine whether only a filling is required. Severe damage or decay may need to be fixed with other treatment options, like a ceramic onlay or partial crown. Teeth with decay, left untreated can result in needing root canals.
If only a filling is needed, the dentist will remove the decayed portions and clean the area to remove all traces of decay. Then, we’ll fill the resulting hollowed cavity with layered composite resin. A ceramic filling can be used instead of composite resin. Next, we’ll shape your filling before using a special curing light to harden the material. We’ll then adjust your filling until your bite looks and feels natural. Finally, the dentist will polish your filling to mimic the contours of your natural teeth.
What are the benefits of composite or ceramic fillings?
Cavities are common dental problems but are easily treatable with composite and/or ceramic fillings. Our dentistry uses the safest materials, even for addressing minor issues like cavities. We prefer composite and/or ceramic fillings because they offer the following benefits.
- Natural appearance: Composites are created from tooth-colored materials for a seamless appearance.
- Conservative treatment: Placing a composite filling is a minimally invasive procedure in which we remove only a small portion of the tooth structure.
- Safety: Composite fillings are made from safe and biocompatible materials, providing a safe option for tooth restoration.
- Optimal bond: A composite filling chemically bonds with the tooth to create an airtight seal against future bacterial attacks.
- Thermal resistance: Composites have strong insulating properties, remaining intact despite temperature changes. This protects your tooth from cracks that can occur over time when the filling changes in size.
How long do composite and ceramic fillings last?
Composite resin is an easily moldable material in its raw form, the life expectancy depends on the size. The larger the size the shorter the life. In such cases, opting for a ceramic filling may be advisable. Ceramic fillings are stronger and support the tooth differently than composite fillings. Conservative composite fillings can last over ten years, but the longevity depends on several factors.
Some include:
- Oral hygiene: A diet rich in sugar and acids will likely wear out your fillings faster.
- Smoking: Unlike ceramic, composite fillings are easily stained, ruining aesthetics. Avoid tobacco use and other enamel-staining substances to keep your filling looking its best.
- Location: Fillings in the posterior teeth wear out faster than those in the front because of the everyday grinding and chewing forces.
- Bruxism: Excessive forces from chronic teeth grinding will damage your fillings if you don’t wear a nightguard.
Need a tooth filling in San Diego, California? Pearls of Dentistry is here to help restore the function and appearance of your smile. Drs. Thomas and Langenbach use the latest materials to ensure your fillings are durable and lifelike—call (858) 451-4413 to start your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings
What is a composite filling?
A composite filling is a tooth-colored restoration used to repair cavities or minor tooth damage. Crafted using a safe blend of finely ground glass and resin, composite fillings are crafted to match the natural appearance of the surrounding tooth without sacrificing any functional aspects that your natural tooth provided prior to requiring restoration. They’re a popular alternative to silver (amalgam) fillings due to their natural appearance and durability.
How do composite fillings compare to silver fillings?
Unlike silver fillings, composite fillings are bonded right to the tooth’s natural structure, allowing for a more conservative treatment. They also blend in seamlessly with your smile. While silver fillings are very strong, many patients prefer composite for both cosmetic and biocompatible reasons.
Are composite fillings a safe choice for restoration?
Absolutely! Composite fillings have a wonderful track record and have provided the dental world with a safe and biocompatible restoration option. They contain no mercury, which makes them a preferred option for patients seeking metal-free dental care. Drs. Thomas and Langenbach use high-quality, BPA-free materials to ensure your fillings are safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.
How long should I expect my composite filling to last before requiring replacement?
When cared for properly, your composite filling should last anywhere from 7 to 10 years – possibly even longer! The length of time your filling lasts will depend on several factors that include the size of the filling, how well you adhere to proper oral hygiene, and if you grind your teeth. Regular dental checkups with Drs. Thomas and Langenbach will help monitor and maintain your restorations.
What is the process for getting a composite filling?
Drs. Thomas and Langenbach will begin by numbing the area and removing any decay or damaged tissue. Once the tooth is clean, the composite material is placed in layers, shaped to match your tooth, and hardened using a special curing light. The result is a smooth, natural-looking restoration completed in just one visit.
Will the procedure hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to keep the area numb, and the entire process is generally quick and comfortable. Afterward, you may experience slight sensitivity, but this typically resolves within a few days.
Are composite fillings a good option for any tooth, including my back teeth?
Yes, composite resin is strong enough for both front and back teeth. It’s especially popular for front teeth because it blends beautifully with natural enamel. On molars or teeth exposed to heavy chewing pressure, Drs. Thomas and Langenbach may use reinforced materials or discuss other options depending on your needs.
Can old metal fillings be replaced with composite?
Absolutely. Many patients choose to replace old amalgam fillings with composite for cosmetic or health reasons. Your current silver fillings will first need to be removed before being replaced using tooth-colored composite. This results in an appearance that is not only natural in appearance and aesthetically pleasing, but which provides strength and durability as well for a pleasing smile.
How should I care for my composite fillings?
Caring for composite fillings is easy—just brush and floss regularly, avoid biting on very hard objects, and maintain routine dental visits. Good oral hygiene helps extend the life of your fillings and prevents new decay from forming around or beneath the restoration.
Are composite fillings covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings at least partially, especially for front teeth. Coverage for back teeth may vary depending on your plan. Drs. Thomas and Langenbach’s team will review your benefits and provide a clear estimate before treatment, and flexible payment options are available if needed.
