Dental Health Topics

White Fillings (Composite)

If you're embarrassed about your smile because of decay or dark fillings in your teeth, you may be a good candidate for composite resins.

Because composite resins are not made of metal, your doctor can blend and mix shades to find the perfect color to match your natural teeth. This means only you and your dentist will know you have fillings. Another benefit is that the tooth/composite bond actually supports the remaining tooth structure, deterring breakage and insulating against temperature changes. Medium and small composites can last seven to ten years: as long as the best of metal amalgam fillings. Best of all, composite resins allow more of your natural tooth structure to remain intact than when using amalgam fillings.

Some patients experience mild and temporary post-placement sensitivity from composite resin fillings. Please also be cautioned that coffee, tea, and other staining foods and beverages may discolor your composites unless you ask to have them coated with a clear plastic sealant.