Bakersfield, CA

Composite Fillings

Introduction

Introduction to Composite Fillings

Our dentists at Valley Grace Dental offer composite dental fillings to repair minor tooth decay and damage caused by cracks, chipping, or wear. Composite fillings are designed to match the natural appearance of your teeth, creating a beautiful restoration for your smile. Call us today at (661) 587-7002 to learn more about composite and metal-free dental fillings in Bakersfield, California, and to schedule your appointment with our dentists.

What Are Composite Fillings?

A dental filling is a restoration used to repair minor to moderate tooth damage. We may recommend a filling if your tooth has been damaged by tooth decay (for example, if it has a cavity) or if it suffers from minor fracturing or chipping. A dental filling restores the tooth to its original structure and function and restores your smile to good health.

Our practice only offers composite dental fillings, as we are known for being a “Mercury-Free office.” Also known as metal-free or tooth-colored fillings, composite fillings are made of composite resin, ceramic, or other tooth-colored materials. They’re designed to match the exact color and shade of your surrounding teeth, making them blend perfectly. As such, composite resin fillings are inconspicuous and aesthetically pleasing. They also preserve more of your natural tooth structure than metallic fillings.

Dr. Huang points at a screen, possibly during a discussion or presentation. The indoor office setting includes a wall and a window. Wearing glasses and a shirt, Dr. Huang appears focused on his professional task. - Composite Fillings in Bakersfield, CA

Dental Filling Replacement

Composite dental fillings usually last five to seven years, following which they must be replaced. You’ll know it’s time to replace the dental fillings when you notice darker spaces around the edges. Dental fillings start wearing away from the edges, gradually pulling away from the enamel to create small pockets of space between the filling and the tooth structure. When this happens, you must immediately contact your dentists for dental filling replacement because weakened or damaged fillings increase your risk of bacterial decay.

If your tooth is decayed or damaged, a dental filling may be a great choice for restoring its health and function. Call or schedule a visit today to learn more about the metal-free dental fillings Bakersfield residents trust and to schedule your next appointment with our team. We look forward to caring for your smile!

What Are the Benefits of Composite Fillings?

When placed by our skilled, dedicated practitioners at Valley Grace Dental in Bakersfield, CA, composite fillings come with a wide range of benefits, including the following:

  • It can be utilized successfully for both front and back teeth
  • Requires less drilling when compared with other types of fillings
  • Composite fillings bond to your natural tooth structure
  • They harden within a few seconds
  • Corrects the appearance of cracks and chips
  • Reduces the likelihood of post-treatment sensitivity
  • They can be repaired if they start to degrade
  • They can be used to replace old amalgam fillings
  • They are matched to your tooth shade and color

Who Are the Best Candidates for Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are more popular than ever today, thanks to their aesthetically pleasing appearance and versatility. They may be ideal for the following patients:

  • Those who need to address cavities or decay
  • Those concerned about tooth sensitivity after a filling
  • Those with chipped, cracked, or damaged teeth
  • Those seeking to replace older fillings

Dr. Huang and his team in Bakersfield will thoroughly assess your smile to determine the best approach for correcting your concerns and supporting ongoing oral hygiene and overall wellness.

What’s the first step?

Your treatment journey at Valley Grace Dental in Bakersfield begins with an initial assessment by Dr. Huang and his friendly team. You will undergo X-rays, an oral exam, and an in-depth medical and dental history review. If Dr. Huang finds that you have cavities/decay, chips, or cracks in your teeth, he may recommend composite fillings to restore the integrity of your smile and prevent further damage.

Dr. Huang smiling and looking at clipboard - Dentist in Bakersfield, CA

What to Expect on the Day of a Composite Filling

Your composite filling is placed through a series of steps as follows:

  1. Preparation – The first step is to remove the damaged or decayed portions of the tooth, leaving behind a clean, indented space to be filled with the composite material.
  2. Applying the bonding agent – Next, your dentist will apply a bonding agent to the tooth, which helps ensure the composite material adheres securely to the tooth’s structure.
  3. Layering – Dr. Huang will apply the composite resin using a layering technique. He will utilize a specialized light to harden (cure) each layer. This process allows him to strategically sculpt the filling to match the existing tooth’s natural shape and color.
  4. Polishing – Once all layers have been applied and the tooth has been shaped to perfection, Dr. Huang will polish it to ensure an aesthetically pleasing final look. At this stage, he will also ensure that your bite is functioning properly and that the filling feels comfortable.

Composite Filling Aftercare Instructions

After completing your composite filling treatment in Bakersfield, Dr. Huang will ensure you go home with customized aftercare instructions. These may include temporary restrictions to your diet and overall recommendations for maintaining optimal oral hygiene and health. Practice these simple tips after your session for best results:

  • Wait until your numbing agent has worn off before eating
  • Eat softer foods for the first day after your treatment
  • Avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks for a day or so
  • Wait 24-48 hours before eating hard or crunchy foods
  • Limit drinks and foods that cause stains, like tobacco, coffee, tea, sodas, wine, vinegar, food dyes, beets, and berries
  • Continue to brush and floss properly on a daily basis
  • Get a dental check-up every six months
  • Break harmful habits like chewing on ice or grinding your teeth
Valley

How Much Does a Composite Filling Cost in Bakersfield, CA?

The cost of a composite filling in Bakersfield, CA, can range, depending on its location and the extent of the work required to restore your smile. After completing your initial assessment, Dr. Huang will give you a detailed quote. You can also check with your insurance carrier to see what kinds of treatments they cover.

Why Choose Valley Grace Dental?

Dr. Arthur Huang assumed ownership of Valley Grace Dental in 2020 and has since elevated its practice model to provide the highest standards of safety and excellence for his patients in and beyond Bakersfield, CA. He completed his training at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and is an active member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Orange County Dental Society, Kern County Dental Society, The Crown Council, and Tops Institute Mastermind. Dr. Huang has been in private practice for over 16 years and has refined his approach to offer patients a seamless, rewarding treatment experience tailored to their needs and comfort levels. He treats patients of all ages and backgrounds with compassion and meticulous attention to detail.

Composite Fillings FAQ’S

4.8 543 Reviews
  • Everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable. They have a nice big office that is comfortable.

    I was there for a new patient appointment to have x-rays taken and to meet the doctor, who I really liked. I then waited to see the dental hygienist for my cleaning and because I did both, I was there about 2 hours.

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Valley Grace Dental in Bakersfield

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