Dr. Terri M. Nguyen
Dr. Tiffany H. Nguyen
Dr. Laura T. Huynh
23
Apr
The ultimate guide to composite tooth-colored fillings
At West Portal Family Dentistry in the area of San Francisco, California, we love helping our patients achieve beautiful and healthy smiles. One of the most versatile and adequate solutions we offer is composite, tooth-colored fillings. Whether you have a cavity, a small chip, or a gap that needs attention, composite fillings can help restore your teeth while maintaining a natural look. To make it easy for you to understand, we have answered some of the most common questions about composite fillings below so you can educate yourself on your options.
What are composite fillings?
Composite fillings are a variety of dental restorations made from a tooth-colored resin material. They are used to fix cavities, cracks, or minor damage to teeth. These fillings blend in seamlessly with the natural color of your existing teeth, making them a popular choice for those who want to maintain an aesthetically pleasing smile.
What are the advantages of tooth-colored fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings offer numerous benefits. They provide a natural appearance, are durable, and bond directly to the tooth structure, which strengthens the tooth. Additionally, composite fillings require much less removal of healthy tooth tissue compared to traditional metal fillings.
How long do composite fillings last?
With proper care, composite fillings can last many years. Their lifespan often depends on factors such as the exact size of the filling, the location of the decay in your mouth, and your oral hygiene habits. On average, composite fillings last 5-10years.
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Do tooth-colored fillings cost more than traditional, conventionally used metal fillings?
Composite fillings often cost slightly more than metal fillings initially due to the advanced materials and techniques used. However, many patients consider them a worthwhile investment for their natural appearance and the way they integrate seamlessly into the tooth.
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are completely safe. They have been used in dentistry for decades and are made from biocompatible materials that pose no harm to your teeth or gums when placed by a skilled dentist like those at West Portal Family Dentistry.
Can composite fillings replace old metal fillings?
Absolutely! Composite fillings are often used to replace old or damaged metal (amalgam) fillings. This not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also avoids exposure to mercury present in some metal fillings.
How do I care for my new composite resin dental fillings?
Taking care of your composite fillings is simple. Maintain good oral hygiene! Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once daily, and visit your local area dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard objects or foods that can stress the filling.
How do I schedule an appointment with a San Francisco, California area dentist to learn more?
If you have more questions about composite tooth-colored fillings or are ready to enhance your smile, the friendly team at West Portal Family Dentistry is here to help. Located at 26 West Portal Avenue, Suite 4, in San Francisco, California, we are committed to providing the best possible care for all your dental needs. Call us today at (415) 604-9292 to schedule your upcoming consultation appointment and discover the many benefits of composite resin dental fillings.
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A graduate from UC San Francisco with a Doctor of Dental Science degree, Dr. Terri M. Nguyen has over 20 years of expertise in the field of dental practice. She is known for her caring and passionate nature towards her patients whilst having a wealth of knowledge and technical skill.
Dr. Nguyen continues to update herself with newer and tested treatment methods and technology to ensure that she is capable of delivering the best possible service to her clients. Her areas of specialty include root canal therapy, implant dentistry and cosmetic treatment. She is also a prestigious member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
Dr. Tiffany H. Nguyen grew up in Santa Clara. She studied dentistry at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, with over 6 years of expertise in the field of dental practice. She is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) and American Academy of Clear Aligners (AACA).
As a Bay Area native, Dr. Tiffany Nguyen is excited to settle in the West Portal neighborhood and serve her community.
Dr. Laura T. Huynh dedicates herself to providing the highest level of dental care to patients of all ages. While she has over 15 years of experience in all areas of general practice, she especially enjoys pediatric dentistry and cosmetic dentistry for adults.
A UC Irvine graduate, Dr. Huynh obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Arthur Dugoni Dental School at University of Pacific. She stays on top of the latest trends and technologies in dentistry by following continuing education courses annually. She is a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and San Francisco Dental Society.