Composite Fillings Vista, 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 Pearl Dental Group Specialty & General Dentistry in Vista and the surrounding area. Call us today at (760) 560-3169 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Composite Fillings Explained
Composite fillings have been used for decades and have steadily grown in popularity. Tooth-colored fillings consist of a resin material, which is a combination of plastic and powdered glass and typically lasts between 5-7 years. The material is applied to the tooth in layers and hardened using a special curing light. Once cured, we will smooth and polish it to prevent premature wear and tear.
A tooth-colored filling differs from other types of fillings such as gold, porcelain, and silver amalgam in several ways. Since they are color-matched to blend with natural teeth, they can fill cavities in both the front and back teeth and can also fix chips and cracks. A composite filling requires less of the tooth to be removed, which helps the tooth retain its overall structure. It can also be cleaned and repaired as necessary.
“Composite fillings have been used for decades and have steadily grown in popularity.”
Benefits of Composite Tooth Fillings
If a patient has tooth decay, a composite filling may be the solution. According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay. There are various benefits of composite fillings, including:
- Fix Decay and Other Issues: Composite fillings primarily fix tooth decay. They can also fix cracks, chips, and tooth wear. This helps to restore a tooth’s function and health.
- Subtle Aesthetics: Compared to other filling types, composite fillings are very subtle. Our dentist can color match the filling to the surrounding teeth. Many patients prefer this natural appearance.
- Strong Bonding to Teeth: Composite fillings bond well with the treated tooth. It can help to strengthen and support the remaining natural tooth. This filling provides support to prevent or slow the worsening of further tooth damage.
- Minimal Drilling Needed: Relative to other filling types, especially silver amalgam, composite filling requires little drilling. These fillings can fit into small cavity spaces. This results in patients keeping more of their natural teeth.
“According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay.”
Composite Filling: Things to Consider
Keep in mind a few things when considering a composite filling. Compared to their silver amalgam counterparts, composite fillings do not last quite as long in larger fillings, but they do well in smaller ones. Depending on their location, they can also be prone to chipping. However, one advantage is that tooth-colored fillings can be repaired.
Compared to other options, it does take a bit longer to have a composite filling applied. However, the time difference is minimal. The shade of this type of filling can change slightly from these certain types of drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. We can put a plastic coating over the material to prevent any color changes.
“Keep in mind a few things when considering a composite filling.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Vista, 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 the benefits of composite fillings?
Q. What are composite fillings?
Q. What are some potential disadvantages of composite fillings?
Q. Who should get tooth fillings?
People Also Ask
Q. How can a person's diet help with tooth decay?
Q. Why is preventative care important? How can it save you money?
Q. How can a dentist handle cleaning around sensitive teeth?
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 Pearl Dental Group Specialty & General Dentistry can help. Call us today at (760) 560-3169 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, license, and website security
- Pearl Dental Group Specialty & General Dentistry was established in 2001.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: San Diego County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Vista, Carlsbad, San Marcos, Oceanside, Escondido, Bonsall, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Fallbrook, Valley Center and Poway
- CA (License #45944). View License Information and Specifics
- National Provider Identifier Database (1659410199). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Pearl Dental Group Specialty & General Dentistry on mobile
Back to top of Composite Fillings
Related Posts
What Is A Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover is a process that involves one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to make a person's smile look better. Some of the treatments include bonding, dental crowns, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings. In many cases, the procedure can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The treatment options also depend on the patient’s individual condition.A…
Welcome To Pearl Dental Group Specialty & General Dentistry
We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Vista, CA area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, Botox for Dentistry, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, All-on-4 Dental Implants, Implant Supported Dentures, Dentures and Dental Crowns.
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Pearl Dental Group Specialty & General Dentistry on mobile