Composite Fillings

Explained by a San Diego Cosmetic Dentist

In the 70s and 80s, silver fillings were far more popular than they are today. Thanks to modern technology, people can turn to composite fillings which are developed to match the look and feel of natural teeth instead of having a mouth full of noticeable, metal fillings. Composite fillings are made by a mixture of glass and quartz filler, and they are commonly used on the back or front teeth.

Why You May Need a Composite Filling

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

Reasons for composite fillings:

Chipped teeth
Closing space between two teeth
Cracked or broken teeth
Decayed teeth
Worn teeth

The Benefits of Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings

In many cases if a patient is given the choice between amalgam (metal) and the tooth-like composite fillings, they will choose composite fillings due to their natural appearance.

There are many advantages to composite fillings and these include:

Composites provide a natural look and feel unlike traditional silver fillings
Composites are mercury free
Restored teeth are less sensitive to hot and cold than with amalgam
They chemically bond to the tooth structure, thus providing additional support
Less tooth structure needs to be removed in the process

Using Nature as a Guide

In the past dentistry aimed at creating "stronger" teeth by using very durable and rigid materials to replace damaged or decayed teeth. Unfortunately, these rigid materials would contribute to further decay by allowing additional decay and cracking to occur.

Today's modern dentistry uses nature as a guide by constantly searching for materials that closely mimic the natural form and function of our teeth. This combination of art and science takes into consideration restoring the natural function and internal shape of the tooth. With composite fillings, the tooth, in whole or in part is recreated using materials that respond as a healthy tooth would.

Contact Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center to schedule a consultation with San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Roya Mirkhan!

What Our Patients

Are Saying About Us

“Knowledgeable and kind and patient.”
Former Patient
“I highly recommend Dr. Mirkhan for all dental issues.”
Former Patient
“Dr. Roya Mirkhan and very capable staff have warmly welcomed us as new patients to their large state-of-the-art offices.”
Former Patient
“ I left Dr. Mirkhan's office feeling relieved and comforted knowing that I would be in good hands. ”
Former Patient
“Personalized care and high level of care.”
Former Patient
“The staff is always friendly and helpful.”
Former Patient
“I shall always recommend her to all as the best dental physician, especially for persons who have the most challenging dental problems.”
Former Patient
“I felt no pain or even discomfort. I must also say the office is extremely clean. I am so glad to have found an excellent dentist.”
Former Patient
“Her staff is well trained and the office is extremely patient-friendly.”
Former Patient
“I love her warm and friendly personality. Best of all, you’ll love the results on your teeth!”
Former Patient
“I love my new teeth!”
Former Patient
“Very proficient and professional.”
Former Patient
“my teeth look and feel better than they ever have.”
Former Patient
“I would recommend Dr. Mirkhan to anyone looking for dental implants or any other dental work.”
Former Patient
“I will always be thankful that I have you to depend on for kind, skilled, professional and caring service and look forward to a long relationship with you and your staff.”
Former Patient