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Composite Teeth Fillings
A composite filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks or fractures. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.
There are many types of dental filling materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You and your Boston Center for Oral Health dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth as each patient’s needs are different. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth, making them especially practical for use in front teeth or more visible areas of your smile.
As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may eventually need to be replaced. However, they are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.
Reasons for getting composite fillings:
- Chipped teeth
- Closing space between two teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Worn teeth
What does getting a composite filling involve?
Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment at Boston Center for Oral Health. While the tooth is numb, your Boston dentist will remove decay, as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay occurred near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be carefully placed, shaped and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when teeth fillings are first placed, but this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.
You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will help extend the lifespan of your new fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings | BCOH, Boston
Q: What are composite fillings?
A: Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations used to repair cavities or minor tooth damage. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and are a popular alternative to silver (amalgam) fillings.
Q: Are composite fillings safe and durable?
A: Yes. Composite materials are safe, strong, and long-lasting. With proper care, a composite filling can last many years while preserving the natural look of your tooth.
Q: How long does it take to get a composite filling?
A: Most composite fillings can be completed in a single visit. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and typically takes less than an hour per filling.
Q: Will the filling match my tooth color?
A: Absolutely. Composite fillings are custom-shaded to match the color of your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile or speak.
Q: Do composite fillings contain mercury?
A: No. Composite fillings are mercury-free and made from a mixture of tooth-colored plastic and glass materials — making them a safer, more aesthetic choice for many patients.
Q: Can composite fillings be used on front and back teeth?
A: Yes. Composite fillings are versatile and strong enough to be used on both front and back teeth, depending on the size and location of the cavity.
Q: What should I expect after getting a composite filling?
A: You may experience slight sensitivity to pressure or temperature for a day or two, but most patients return to normal eating and brushing habits immediately after the procedure.
Q: How do I care for my teeth after getting a filling?
A: Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. Avoid chewing on hard objects and sticky foods to prolong the life of your filling.