Navarro Dental Center provides natural-looking, tooth-colored fillings to restore your smile seamlessly. Whether you need to repair a cavity or replace an old filling, our tooth-colored fillings blend perfectly with your natural teeth, offering both durability and aesthetics.

WHAT ARE COMPOSITE FILLINGS?

Composite fillings are a modern, tooth-colored alternative to traditional metal fillings. Made from a durable resin material, they provide a strong and discreet way to repair cavities, chips, or minor fractures. Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings bond directly to your tooth structure, reinforcing its integrity and reducing the risk of further damage.

BENEFITS OF TOOTH-COLORED FILLINGS

  • Natural Appearance: Matches your natural tooth color for a seamless look.
  • Strong & Durable: Bonds directly to the tooth, adding strength.
  • Minimally Invasive: Requires less tooth structure removal compared to metal fillings.
  • Mercury-Free: A safe, biocompatible alternative to amalgam fillings.
  • Reduced Tooth Sensitivity: Less temperature conductivity compared to metal fillings.

WHEN DO YOU NEED A COMPOSITE FILLING?

You may need a composite filling if you have:

  • A cavity that requires restoration
  • A chipped or cracked tooth
  • An old silver filling that needs replacement
  • Minor tooth discoloration or imperfections

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, our dental team can assess your needs and determine if composite fillings are the right solution.

THE COMPOSITE FILLING PROCEDURE

  1. Examination & Diagnosis: Our dentists will examine your tooth and determine if a filling is needed.
  2. Preparation: The affected area is cleaned, and any decay is removed.
  3. Filling Application: The composite resin is applied in layers and hardened using a special curing light.
  4. Shaping & Polishing: The filling is shaped to match your bite and polished for a natural appearance.

HOW LONG DO COMPOSITE FILLINGS LAST?

Tooth-colored fillings can last 7-10 years or longer with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. To extend the lifespan of your filling, practice good oral care habits and avoid excessive pressure from grinding or biting complex objects.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What are composite fillings, and how do they work?

Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations that repair cavities, cracks, or chips. Made from a blend of resin and glass, they bond directly to the tooth, restoring strength and aesthetics. Unlike silver fillings, composite fillings match natural teeth, making them popular. They provide a durable and discreet solution for restoring damaged teeth while preventing further decay or deterioration.

2. How long do composite fillings last?

With proper care, tooth fillings can last 7-10 years or longer. Their longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, diet, and the location of the filling. Regular dental checkups help monitor wear and tear. Unlike metal fillings, composites resist fractures and can be repaired if minor damage occurs, ensuring long-lasting protection while maintaining the natural appearance of your smile.

3. Are composite fillings better than amalgam fillings?

Dental composite fillings offer a more aesthetic and biocompatible alternative to amalgam fillings. Unlike silver fillings, composites blend seamlessly with natural teeth and do not contain mercury. Additionally, they bond directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of the healthy structure. Composite fillings are ideal for front and back teeth, providing durability, strength, and a natural appearance without the metallic look of amalgam fillings.

4. Do composite fillings require special care?

Caring for affordable composite fillings is simple: Maintain good oral hygiene, brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine checkups. Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or nuts to prevent chipping. Since composite fillings resist stains, limiting coffee, tea, and tobacco use helps maintain their color. With proper care, your fillings will stay strong, ensuring long-lasting protection for your teeth.

5. How much do composite fillings cost?

The cost of tooth fillings varies based on cavity size, location, and dental insurance coverage. On average, they range from $100 to $400 per tooth. Many insurance plans cover part of the cost. While slightly more expensive than amalgam fillings, their natural appearance and durability make them a worthwhile investment in aesthetics and long-term dental health. Schedule a consultation for an accurate estimate.