Composite fillings are a highly requested type of filling these days — and it's not hard to understand why. Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, offer a long-lasting solution for fillings and small imperfections without having metal cast a shadow on the aesthetics of your smile. In fact, many people opt to get their silver fillings replaced with a tooth-colored option for aesthetic and health purposes.  

Continue reading to learn more about the other benefits that make composite fillings a popular choice and where to find the best dentists in Valencia and Santa Clarita who offer composite fillings. 

What Are Composite Fillings? 

Composite fillings, often called composite resins or tooth-colored fillings, are a type of dental material used to restore decayed teeth. They are made from a mixture of plastic (resin) and fine glass particles. Composite fillings are popular for filling cavities because their color can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, making them less noticeable than other fillings, like amalgam fillings, which are silver in color.

Composite fillings are renowned for their durability, standing strong against the pressure of chewing for many years. Compared to other fillings, they require minimal removal of the natural tooth structure, making them a conservative option for dental restoration. This longevity provides you with a secure and lasting dental solution.

How Do Composite Fillings Compare to Silver or Ceramic Fillings?

When it comes to getting a filling, you have a few different options. Common options include silver fillings, ceramic fillings, or composite fillings. Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, have a long history of being well-tolerated and durable. However, ceramic and composite fillings are popular choices in modern dentistry. 

When it comes to composite fillings — there are several advantages: 

  1. Composite fillings can be color-matched to your natural teeth, making the filling virtually invisible. In contrast, silver fillings are noticeable due to their metallic color, while ceramic fillings may not always perfectly match the tooth color.
  2. Composite fillings require less removal of the natural tooth structure than ceramic fillings, which can help preserve more of the tooth's integrity.
  3. Composite fillings are as durable and long-lasting as metallic fillings — and stronger than ceramic ones.
  4. Composite fillings can be less sensitive to temperature changes than silver and ceramic fillings, which may both expand and contract with temperature variations. 

Overall, composite fillings offer a more aesthetically pleasing option with comparable durability and conservative tooth preservation compared to silver or ceramic fillings.

How Long Can Composite Fillings Last? 

The lifespan of any composite filling can vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the filling and your oral hygiene habits. On average, composite fillings can last five to 15 years or more. With proper care, your composite fillings can last for many years and possibly the rest of your life. 

Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, can extend the longevity of your fillings. 

Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings

A common question our patients ask is, “Are composite fillings safe?” Composite fillings are considered safe by regulatory bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA). They are widely used and studied in modern dental practice. However, there was previously some concern about trace amounts of bisphenol A (BPA) in some composite resin materials. There are now BPA-free composite fillings available.

Additional benefits of composite fillings include:

  • Durability that ensures you get long-lasting use from your fillings
  • A natural appearance that blends in with your natural teeth for a flawless smile
  • The ability to fix both minor flaws and larger damage areas from tooth decay.
  • Can be used to fix small imperfections like chips and cracks
  • Short-lived temperature sensitivity after the procedure, in contrast to the longer tooth sensitivity that metal fillings are often associated with

Some downfalls of getting composite fillings include:

  • A higher cost in some cases, however, this depends on your insurance coverage
  • Composite fillings may take slightly longer to apply because each composite layer must be cured with a special light before the next layer is applied

Like other types of fillings, composite fillings are best for solving small imperfections and cavities. A tooth extraction or dental implant may be a better option for cases of severe tooth decay. 

Where to Get Composite Fillings From the Best Dentist in SoCal

We know your smile is important to you, and composite fillings are an excellent option if you want to keep a metal-free smile. To ensure your filling is done right, it's important to choose a dentist who’s an expert in modern restorative dentistry techniques — including composite fillings.  

At SoCal Dental of Valencia, Dr. Danny Aframian, Dr. Homan Shamoeil, and Dr. Sherry Solouki are dedicated to providing the highest quality care, with the most advanced techniques and a focus on individualized treatment plans. Our state-of-the-art dental office proudly serves patients in the Valencia, Santa Clarita, and surrounding Southern California areas with comprehensive dental care, including orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and periodontics. 

Ready to get long-lasting, tooth-colored composite fillings in Southern California?