Composite fillings are used to restore teeth affected by decay, fractures, or wear. Made from a durable, tooth-colored resin, they are shaped and bonded directly to the tooth to rebuild structure and function. This material blends with your natural enamel and supports the tooth without relying on metal or removing more structure than necessary.
Fillings are commonly recommended for small to moderate areas of damage and can also be used to replace older silver (amalgam) restorations with a more conservative, natural-looking alternative.
Summary: Composite dental fillings are a strong, tooth-colored solution for repairing cavities, chips, and minor fractures. They preserve natural tooth structure, blend seamlessly with your smile, and offer long-lasting protection without metal. Ideal for both functional and cosmetic repairs, composite fillings support long-term oral health with a conservative approach.
We provide composite dental fillings at our dental office in Boulder, CO.
What Are Composite Dental Fillings?
Composite fillings are made from a strong, tooth-colored composite resin that chemically bonds to your tooth structure. These fillings are ideal for small to moderate restorations, offering both functional support and aesthetic appeal.
Unlike metal-based options, composite materials match the natural color and contours of your teeth, making them an excellent choice for visible areas of your smile.
Composite resin is biocompatible, mercury-free, and BPA-free, making it a safe and trusted choice for long-term dental treatment.
Why We Use a Biomimetic Approach
Biomimetic dentistry focuses on mimicking the natural properties of teeth. Our technique involves preserving healthy tooth structure, restoring the tooth’s natural flexibility, and creating long-lasting seals against bacteria and sensitivity.
This approach allows us to:
- Use less invasive preparation methods
- Avoid unnecessary removal of healthy enamel
- Reduce the risk of future fractures or sensitivity
- Extend the life of your natural teeth
By following biomimetic principles, we support long-term oral health with restorations designed to preserve tooth structure and prevent future damage.
Conditions Treated with Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are versatile and commonly used to address a variety of dental issues. They can restore function, improve appearance, and prevent further damage when the underlying tooth structure is still intact.
We may recommend a composite filling for:
- Cavities and decayed teeth
- Broken teeth or minor fracture
- Replacing worn or broken amalgam fillings
- Cosmetic improvements to tooth shape or color
- Tooth sensitivity caused by worn enamel
If the damage is too extensive for a filling, we may recommend a dental crown or other restorative solution that aligns with your needs.
What To Expect During the Filling Procedure
The filling procedure is straightforward and comfortable, thanks to our conservative preparation methods and advanced techniques.
Here is what you can expect:
- Assessment & imaging: We will examine the tooth and take digital x-rays to determine the extent of the decay or damage.
- Tooth preparation: The compromised areas are gently removed, preserving as much healthy structure as possible.
- Filling placement: The composite resin is applied in layers and carefully sculpted to match the natural contours of the tooth. Each layer is hardened using a curing light..
- Polishing & Final Adjustments: The filling is polished to a smooth, natural finish, making it virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth.
You may experience some mild sensitivity after the procedure, especially to temperature or pressure. This is usually temporary and improves quickly. If any discomfort persists, we are happy to make adjustments to ensure a proper fit.
Benefits of Composite Resin Fillings
Composite fillings offer both functional strength and natural aesthetics, making them a popular choice for patients seeking conservative and long-lasting dental care.
- Blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth
- Preserve healthy enamel through conservative preparation
- Strong bond supports the natural tooth structure
- Mercury-free and metal-free alternative to amalgam fillings
- Reduce the risk of future cracking or leakage
- Compatible with a wide range of restorative needs
While composite fillings are durable, every patient’s lifestyle, diet, bite, and oral hygiene habits can affect how long a filling lasts. We provide guidance during your checkups to help you monitor their condition over time.
Conservative Dentistry You Can Trust
We take a conservative approach to restorative care, using composite fillings to repair damage without removing healthy tooth structure. Every decision is guided by what’s best for your long-term oral health, with materials and techniques selected to match your needs and preserve your natural smile.
Key Takeaway: Tooth-colored composite fillings are a conservative, metal-free way to restore decayed or damaged teeth. They provide strong, natural-looking results that support long-term oral health and blend seamlessly with your smile.
Insurance and Membership Options
We are in-network with Delta Dental Premier, Cigna DPPO Plus, Anthem, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. We also accept out-of-network benefits and offer a dental membership plan for patients without insurance.
Our office proudly serves Boulder and the surrounding communities of Superior, Louisville, Lafayette, Longmont, and Erie.
To book an appointment at our dental office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 442-6141 or visit us at 777 29th St, Unit 300 Boulder, CO 80303.
FAQs
What is the difference between composite and amalgam fillings?
Composite fillings use tooth-colored resin that bonds to your tooth, while amalgam fillings are made from a silver-colored metal blend. Composite fillings are more aesthetic and require less removal of healthy tooth structure.
How long do composite fillings last?
The lifespan of a composite filling depends on several factors, including the location of the filling, your oral hygiene routine, and how your teeth come together when you bite. During regular checkups, we monitor the condition of your restorations and recommend replacement only when necessary.
Can composite fillings cause tooth sensitivity?
Some patients experience mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure after a composite filling. This is usually temporary and should improve within a few days to a few weeks. If the sensitivity persists or worsens, it may need to be adjusted.
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are considered safe for dental use. The materials are widely used and have been studied extensively. They do not contain mercury, and many are formulated without BPA. If you have concerns about specific ingredients, your dentist can discuss the materials used and recommend options that meet your preferences.
How long does it take to get a dental filling?
Most dental fillings can be completed in about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. The procedure is typically done in one visit.
