Composite Fillings in Salida, CO

 At Relaxation Dental, we use tooth-colored composite resin to restore decayed or damaged teeth without the noticeable appearance of silver (amalgam) fillings.

Composite fillings provide a durable, mercury-free alternative that strengthens your tooth structure while maintaining a beautiful, natural look.

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin material that bonds directly to your tooth. They are used to:

• Repair cavities and tooth decay.
• Restore chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.
• Replace old metal (amalgam) fillings for a more natural appearance.
• Fill small gaps or minor imperfections in teeth.

Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings are custom-matched to your tooth color, making them virtually invisible in your smile.

Benefits of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings offer several advantages over traditional metal fillings:

• A natural appearance – The material is tooth-colored and blends seamlessly with your smile.
• A mercury-free and biocompatible solution – Composite fillings do not contain mercury, making them a safer alternative.
• More tooth preservation – Less enamel needs to be removed compared to amalgam fillings.
• Reduced temperature sensitivity – Composite fillings expand and contract less than metal fillings, lowering the risk of cracks.
• Strong and long-lasting – These fillings are durable and provide excellent support for moderate decay and fractures.

Composite fillings are an excellent option for patients looking for a safe, strong, and aesthetic dental restoration.

The Composite Filling Procedure

Getting a composite filling is quick, comfortable, and completed in just one visit. Here’s what to expect:

1. Numbing & Preparation – A local anesthetic is applied to ensure comfort, and the decayed portion of the tooth is removed.
2. Tooth Cleaning & Bonding – The tooth is thoroughly cleaned, and a bonding agent is applied to help the filling adhere.
3. Filling Application & Shaping – The composite resin is placed in layers and carefully shaped to match your natural tooth.
4. Hardening & Polishing – A special curing light hardens the filling, and final adjustments are made for a smooth finish.

Once the procedure is complete, your tooth will look and function naturally with no downtime needed.

How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?

With proper care, composite fillings can last 7-10 years or more. To extend the lifespan of your fillings:

• Brush and floss daily to prevent decay around the filling.
• Avoid biting on hard foods, ice, or non-food objects.
• Schedule regular checkups and cleanings to monitor your fillings.
• Consider a nightguard if you grind your teeth to prevent wear.

If a filling becomes loose, worn, or damaged, we can easily repair or replace it.

Composite Fillings vs. Amalgam Fillings

If you’re deciding between composite and metal fillings, here’s what to consider:

• Appearance: Composite fillings match your natural tooth color, while amalgam (silver) fillings are dark and noticeable.
• Durability: Amalgam fillings are slightly more durable for large cavities, but composite fillings provide excellent strength for small to medium restorations.
• Tooth Preservation: Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, requiring less enamel removal than amalgam.
• Sensitivity: Metal fillings expand and contract with temperature changes, which can increase the risk of cracks, while composite fillings provide more stability.
• Safety: Composite fillings are mercury-free and biocompatible, making them a healthier choice.

For most patients, composite fillings are the preferred option because they are both strong and aesthetically pleasing.