Composite Fillings Modesto, CA
Today, there are many options for tooth fillings. Composite or tooth-colored fillings offer a durable and more natural look that may be preferable to a traditional silver metal filling. Since this type of filling matches the color of your teeth, you can use it to fix several different issues on both the front and back teeth.
A tooth-colored filling can help improve your smile. Composite fillings are available at Great Smiles Dental in Modesto and the surrounding area. Call us today at (209) 222-3636 to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.
Composite Fillings Explained
Composite fillings have been used for decades and have steadily grown in popularity. Tooth-colored fillings consist of a resin material, which is a combination of plastic and powdered glass and typically lasts between 5-7 years. The material is applied to the tooth in layers and hardened using a special curing light. Once cured, we will smooth and polish it to prevent premature wear and tear.
A tooth-colored filling differs from other types of fillings such as gold, porcelain, and silver amalgam in several ways. Since they are color-matched to blend with natural teeth, they can fill cavities in both the front and back teeth and can also fix chips and cracks. A composite filling requires less of the tooth to be removed, which helps the tooth retain its overall structure. It can also be cleaned and repaired as necessary.
“Composite fillings have been used for decades and have steadily grown in popularity.”
Benefits of Composite Tooth Fillings
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. There are various benefits of composite fillings, including:
- Fix Decay and Other Issues: 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.
- Subtle Aesthetics: 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.
- Strong Bonding to Teeth: 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.
- Minimal Drilling Needed: 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.
“According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay.”
Composite Filling: Things to Consider
Keep in mind a few things when considering a composite filling. Compared to their silver amalgam counterparts, composite fillings do not last quite as long in larger fillings, but they do well in smaller ones. Depending on their location, they can also be prone to chipping. However, one advantage is that tooth-colored fillings can be repaired.
Compared to other options, it does take a bit longer to have a composite filling applied. However, the time difference is minimal. The shade of this type of filling can change slightly from these certain types of drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. We can put a plastic coating over the material to prevent any color changes.
“Keep in mind a few things when considering a composite filling.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Modesto, CA
When to Get a Filling
A filling is necessary when tooth decay has weakened the structure of the tooth. If left untreated, it can lead to serious dental problems. Fillings repair a tooth that has been cracked, broken, or worn down. We can inform patients if they require a filling.
While people of all ages can experience a dental event that requires a filling, school-age children and teens are more often more susceptible. Age, oral hygiene, diet, and genetics all play a factor in the risk for tooth decay. Proper oral hygiene and regular trips to the dentist will help reduce that risk and the need for a filling.
“A filling is necessary when tooth decay has weakened the structure of the tooth.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the benefits of composite fillings?
Q. What are composite fillings?
Q. What are some potential disadvantages of composite fillings?
Q. Who should get tooth fillings?
People Also Ask
Q. How can a person's diet help with tooth decay?
Q. Why does the dentist use fluoride mouthwash in the cleaning?
Cost Considerations
Composite fillings typically cost more than silver amalgam but less than other options. In most cases, tooth fillings are covered by insurance as they are deemed essential health care treatments. We recommend reaching out to an insurance provider to determine whether there are any co-pays involved.
When considering the different types of fillings, insurance providers can assess what a patient's plan covers. Our staff can work to find the best solution that fits a patient's budget.
“Composite fillings typically cost more than silver amalgam but less than other options.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long does it take to place a composite filling?
A. Compared to a traditional silver filling, a composite filling takes about 10-20 minutes longer to put into place. That depends on the size and location of the filling. You should expect to be in the dental chair for at least an hour.
Q. What are the advantages of a tooth-colored filling?
A. One of the major advantages of a tooth-colored filling is its ability to be matched to the same shade as your teeth. This provides a seamless look. Similar to other types of fillings, a composite filling also protects your tooth from further decay.
Q. What material makes up a composite filling?
A. Composite fillings comprise resin material that contains no metal. Instead, it is a mixture of powdered glass, silica, or other ceramic particles and plastic compounds. That makes it a good option for people who have metal allergies or want to avoid metal fillings.
Q. How much do composite fillings cost?
A. Composite fillings, like most other fillings, are typically covered by insurance as they are considered essential restorative procedures. However, we always recommend patients contact their insurance providers to determine any out-of-pocket costs before starting any treatment. We can also discuss any payment information during your consultation.
Q. How long do composite fillings last?
A. On average, a composite filling lasts around seven years. However, newer research has shown they can last for a decade or more if the filling is smaller and good oral hygiene practices get followed. Making regular trips to the dentist will help ensure your tooth-colored filling lasts as long as possible.
Scan here to view this page, Composite Fillings, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
If you have a tooth that requires a filling, do not hesitate to seek treatment. Our team at Great Smiles Dental can help. Call us today at (209) 222-3636 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business, license, and website security
- Great Smiles Dental was established in 2014.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Stanislaus County and San Joaquin County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Modesto, Oakdale, Turlock, Tracy, Stockton, Lathrop, Ripon, Atwater, Salida, Manteca and Ceres
- CA (License #33512). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1629180617). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Great Smiles Dental on mobile
Back to top of Composite Fillings
Related Posts
Standard Cosmetic Dental Services To Improve Your Smile
If you suffer from crooked, damaged, or discolored teeth, cosmetic dental services may be able to help. Bright, straight teeth can boost your confidence and make you more willing to share your smile with the world.Dentists offer various cosmetic dental services, so there are plenty of options available depending on your budget and what is…
Cosmetic Dental Services: Indirect Fillings Procedure
Cosmetic dental services, such as indirect fillings, can improve your smile and dental health. Many cosmetic dental services are elective rather than essential, but indirect fillings are restorative treatments for tooth decay and alternatives to conventional fillings. They are durable and fitted to the patient’s mouth and can be fabricated from materials like gold.Many patients…
Cosmetic Dental Services For Chipped Teeth
Cosmetic dental services can restore the aesthetics of decayed, damaged, or deformed teeth. Teeth can become chipped due to their structures being weakened by tooth decay or due to trauma from a blow to the face.A severe chip that reaches the innermost layers of a tooth is classified as a dental emergency because it leaves…
Cosmetic Dental Services To Strengthen Teeth
Cosmetic dental services can be used to strengthen your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry focuses mainly on issues that address how teeth look, but certain issues, like tooth decay, also affect teeth structures. Dental cosmetics like crowns can be used to address such issues while restoring the appearance of your affected teeth.Here are a few of the…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Great Smiles Dental on mobile