Composite Fillings Irvine, CA
Composite fillings treat cavities to protect teeth and restore oral health. There are various types of fillings that dentists can use to fill a cavity. However, composite fillings are the most common type due to their natural appearance and good durability.
If you have a tooth that requires a filling, composite fillings may be a good option. Composite fillings are available at Smile by Design Dental Group in Irvine and the surrounding area. Call us today at (949) 336-3404 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Understanding Composite Fillings
Composite fillings consist of a tooth-colored resin composed of plastic and some additives. In some cases, there are also glass particles mixed with the plastic. Although mostly used for treating cavities, a composite filling can also improve a tooth's cosmetic appearance, such as reshaping a tooth.
Other common types of fillings include gold, porcelain, and silver amalgam. Compared to composite fillings, metal fillings are significantly more visible in the mouth. While porcelain fillings are closer to the surrounding teeth in color, they can be quite costly. For many patients, composite fillings offer a balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability.
“For many patients, composite fillings offer a balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability.”
The Benefits of Tooth Fillings
Tooth fillings occur commonly in dental practice. The average American has three dental fillings, and 25% have 11 or more. Fillings fix small areas of tooth decay and serve as a barrier between the teeth and harmful bacteria. The goal is to prevent further deterioration.
Fillings help restore the normal function and appearance of teeth. Since a composite filling is tooth-colored, it is an aesthetically pleasing option. It bonds to the tooth and supports the remaining structure. That helps prevent additional damage and sensitivity to extreme hot and cold temperatures.
“Fillings fix small areas of tooth decay and serve as a barrier between the teeth and harmful bacteria.”
Other Types of Fillings
Although composite fillings are the most popular type of filling, they are not always the right choice for every patient. Some people may have a specific aesthetic preference for a different kind of filling. For example, although tooth-colored fillings are more subtle, some people prefer the appearance of gold fillings. Additionally, gold and porcelain fillings are more durable than composite fillings. They may last 10 or more years longer than composite filling material. Silver amalgam may also last about five years longer than a composite filling.
According to the American Dental Association, composite fillings can also take longer to place than other types of fillings. Compared to silver amalgam, a composite filling can be more expensive. However, this may depend on insurance coverage. However, it is less costly than gold and porcelain filling. Patients should discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option with our dentist before making a decision.
“Although composite fillings are the most popular type of filling, they are not always the right choice for every patient.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Irvine, 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 composite fillings?
Q. What are some potential disadvantages of composite fillings?
Q. What are the benefits of composite fillings?
Q. Who should get tooth fillings?
People Also Ask
Q. Why does the dentist use fluoride mouthwash in the cleaning?
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 Smile by Design Dental Group can help. Call us today at (949) 336-3404 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business and website security
- Smile by Design Dental Group was established in 2000.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Orange County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Irvine, Lake Forest, Santa Ana, Newport Beach, Mission Viejo, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, and Laguna Beach
- National Provider Identifier Database (1396953949). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Smile by Design Dental Group on mobile
Back to top of Composite Fillings
Related Posts
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Cosmetic Dentist
There are several things to consider as you try to find a cosmetic dentist who can improve your oral health and give you a radiant smile you have always wanted.As you search for a dentist who can perform cosmetic surgery, it is important to research their credentials and areas of expertise. This information should be…
Common Services Offered By A Cosmetic Dentist
A cosmetic dentist can help you have a radiant smile, which can change how you perceive yourself and can influence your first impressions. Beyond general dentistry, which focuses on the health of our teeth and gums, there exists the artful world of dentistry. These types of dentists are the artists behind the sparkling smiles we…
Questions To Ask The Cosmetic Dentist About Veneers
A cosmetic dentist can transform your smile with the help of various dental procedures and restorations. Dental veneers are one of the most common. Many people, celebrities included, get veneers to achieve a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile. If you are considering this procedure, ask the cosmetic dentist a few common questions to ensure it…
How Cosmetic Dentists Can Transform Oral Health
It is often thought that a cosmetic dentist only focuses on the way that the teeth and gums appear; however, that is not the case. They also focus their efforts on ensuring that the teeth and gums remain in good health while also looking and functioning properly.Below is an overview of how a cosmetic dentist…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Smile by Design Dental Group on mobile