Tooth-Colored Fillings in Walnut Creek, CA
Composite fillings offer a natural-looking solution for problems like tooth decay or cracks. At William M. Schneider, DDS, we use tooth-colored materials so your repair blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
Request an AppointmentA Natural-Looking Way to Repair Decay
A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. Unlike traditional metal fillings, composite material is matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making the repair virtually unnoticeable. This procedure is also used for cosmetic improvements, such as fixing discoloration or reshaping disfigured teeth.
When Tooth-Colored Fillings Are Recommended
Fillings are typically recommended when decay is caught early, before it reaches the inner pulp of the tooth. If decay is caught during a routine cleaning and exam, a simple filling can often prevent the need for more extensive treatment later, such as a root canal. If a tooth is too damaged for a filling to be effective, we may recommend a porcelain crown instead.
What to Expect During Treatment
Placing a tooth-colored filling is typically a quick, comfortable procedure performed in a single visit. We’ll numb the area, remove the decayed portion of the tooth, and bond the composite material in place, shaping it to match your natural bite. If you feel anxious about dental procedures, we also offer sedation dentistry to help you relax.
Tooth-Colored Fillings FAQs
What are tooth-colored fillings made of?
Tooth-colored fillings are made from a composite material, a mixture of plastic and glass, designed to match the natural shade of your teeth.
Are tooth-colored fillings better than metal fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings blend in naturally with your smile and bond directly to the tooth, which can help preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to some metal fillings.
Does getting a filling hurt?
The area is numbed before treatment, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, composite fillings can last many years, though they may eventually need to be replaced.
Can fillings be used for cosmetic repairs?
Yes, tooth-colored fillings can also be used to fix minor discoloration or reshape a disfigured tooth for cosmetic purposes.
What happens if the decay is too advanced for a filling?
If decay has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary instead of a filling.
How do I schedule a filling appointment?
You can request an appointment online through our appointments page or call us directly at (925) 935-2700.
Repair Your Smile Naturally
Don’t let a cavity wait. Call William M. Schneider, DDS at (925) 935-2700 or request an appointment online for a tooth-colored filling.