What To Know
What to know aboutTooth-Colored Fillings
Composite fillings, also called tooth-colored or white fillings, are made of a durable resin material that's matched precisely to the color of your natural teeth. At Veda Dental Studio, composite fillings are our preferred restoration for cavities and minor tooth damage because they blend invisibly with your smile while preserving more of your natural tooth structure than older filling materials.
Composite resin bonds directly to tooth structure, which is a fundamental advantage over amalgam (silver) fillings. This bond means less healthy tooth needs to be removed during the procedure, the filling itself reinforces the remaining tooth, and the seal between filling and tooth is tight enough to prevent decay from sneaking in around the edges. Composite is also versatile and can be used on both front and back teeth, in small fillings as well as larger restorations.
Beyond cavities, composite material is also used for cosmetic bonding to repair chips, close small gaps, reshape teeth, and improve the appearance of discolored areas. The procedure for placing a composite filling is the same whether it's for a cavity or cosmetic bonding: the area is prepared, the resin is applied in layers and hardened with a curing light, and the final restoration is shaped and polished. Most composite fillings last 7 to 10 years and longer with good care, and they remain largely invisible throughout their lifespan.
Questions
Frequently askedquestions
Answers to the questions patients ask us most, so you feel prepared before your visit.
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years with proper care, and many last considerably longer. Longevity depends on the size of the filling, its location, your bite, and habits like grinding. Smaller fillings on front teeth often outlast larger fillings on back teeth that face heavy chewing forces.
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are safe and have been used widely for decades. The materials are FDA-approved and biocompatible. Composite fillings are also free of mercury, which appeals to patients who prefer to avoid amalgam materials. Modern composites have an excellent safety record and are used by dentists worldwide.
Can composite fillings be used on back teeth?
Yes, modern composite materials are strong enough for use on back teeth, including molars that face heavy chewing forces. While amalgam was historically preferred for back teeth due to durability concerns, today's composites have closed much of that gap. For very large back-tooth restorations, a crown may be recommended over a filling.
Will a composite filling match my tooth color exactly?
Composite materials come in many shades and we select the closest match to your natural tooth color before placing the filling. The result is typically invisible in normal lighting conditions. Some natural tooth color variation may show under certain conditions, but most patients and observers cannot distinguish a well-placed composite filling from natural tooth structure.
Do composite fillings stain over time?
Composite material can stain slightly over many years, particularly from coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. The staining is usually minimal and the filling remains far less noticeable than aged amalgam fillings. Polishing during regular cleanings can reduce surface staining, and very stained fillings can be replaced if needed.
Will I have sensitivity after a composite filling?
Some mild sensitivity, particularly to cold, is common for a few days to a few weeks after a filling. This is usually a normal response to the procedure and resolves on its own. Persistent sensitivity beyond a few weeks should be reported to us so we can evaluate the bite and the tooth.
Can old amalgam fillings be replaced with composite?
Yes, many patients choose to replace amalgam fillings with composite for aesthetic reasons or personal preference. The procedure involves removing the old filling, cleaning the tooth, and placing a new composite restoration. We follow safety protocols when removing amalgam fillings. Note that some insurance plans may not cover the replacement of a functional filling for cosmetic reasons alone.
How should I care for my composite filling?
Brush twice daily, floss daily, and attend regular cleanings. Avoid biting hard objects like ice, pen caps, or fingernails, which can chip composite material. If you grind your teeth, a custom nightguard significantly extends the life of your fillings. Limiting frequent snacking on sugary or acidic foods reduces the risk of new decay around the filling.
Serving Savannah, Pooler
and Port Wentworth
Our studio is at 492 Jimmy DeLoach Pkwy, Suite 104, Savannah, GA 31407, in The Highlands, just off I-95. It is an easy drive from downtown Savannah, Pooler and Port Wentworth, with parking right outside.
New Patients Welcome