Composite Fillings

Maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile is easier than ever with composite fillings. Unlike traditional silver (amalgam) fillings, composite fillings are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a discreet, durable, and long-lasting solution for cavities and minor tooth damage. At Simi West Dental Group, we specialize in high-quality tooth-colored fillings, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and optimal oral health.

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made from a blend of resin and finely ground glass particles. This material is highly customizable, allowing us to match the filling precisely to the color of your existing teeth. Composite fillings are used to repair cavities, fix minor cracks, and restore the structure of a tooth, all while maintaining a completely natural appearance.

Benefits of Composite Fillings

Natural Appearance – The color-matched material blends seamlessly with your teeth.
Stronger Bond – Composite fillings adhere directly to the tooth, strengthening the structure.
Mercury-Free – Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, composite materials are safe and biocompatible.
Less Tooth Removal – Requires minimal removal of healthy tooth structure compared to metal fillings.
Prevents Further Decay – Provides a tight seal to protect against bacteria and decay.
Durable & Long-Lasting – When properly cared for, composite fillings can last for many years.

When Do You Need a Composite Filling?

Composite fillings are a versatile solution for various dental issues. You may need a tooth-colored filling if you have:

A cavity caused by tooth decay.
A chipped or cracked tooth that needs minor restoration.
Discoloration that can’t be removed with whitening treatments.
Worn-down teeth due to grinding or excessive chewing forces.
An old amalgam filling that you want to replace for cosmetic or health reasons.

Our Composite Filling Procedure

At Simi West Dental Group, we ensure that every composite filling procedure is quick, comfortable, and pain-free. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

Examination & Diagnosis – We assess the condition of your tooth to determine if a composite filling is the best option.
Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free experience.
Tooth Preparation – The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
Filling Placement – The composite resin is applied in layers and hardened using a special curing light.
Shaping & Polishing – The filling is sculpted to match the natural contours of your tooth and polished for a smooth finish.

How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?

With proper care, composite fillings can last 7 to 10 years or longer. Factors that affect their lifespan include:

Oral hygiene – Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups help maintain your filling.
Diet – Avoid excessive consumption of hard, sticky, or sugary foods.
Bruxism (teeth grinding) – Wearing a nightguard can protect fillings from excessive pressure.
Size & location – Fillings on molars endure more chewing force and may wear out faster than those on front teeth.

Are Composite Fillings Safe?

Yes! Composite fillings are a biocompatible and non-toxic alternative to traditional metal fillings. They do not contain mercury or other harmful substances, making them a safer choice for your long-term oral health.

Will My Insurance Cover Composite Fillings?

Many dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, especially if they are placed in visible areas of the mouth. Coverage may vary depending on your policy. We offer affordable payment options and financing plans to ensure you receive the care you need.

Do composite fillings hurt?

The procedure is generally painless. We use local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience, and most patients report minimal to no discomfort.

How long does the procedure take?

A composite filling procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, depending on the extent of the decay.

Can composite fillings be replaced?

Yes. If a composite filling becomes worn or damaged, it can be safely removed and replaced with a new filling.

How do I care for my composite fillings?

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist for routine checkups. Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or pens.

Are composite fillings better than silver (amalgam) fillings?

Composite fillings offer several advantages over silver fillings, including better aesthetics, no mercury content, and a stronger bond to the tooth structure.

Schedule Your Composite Filling Appointment

If you need a composite filling in Simi Valley, trust Simi West Dental Group to provide expert care in a friendly and comfortable environment. Our team is dedicated to restoring your smile with high-quality, long-lasting dental solutions.

Call us today or schedule your appointment online to learn more about how composite fillings can protect and enhance your smile!