A tooth-colored option
Shade selection helps the repair blend with the surrounding tooth.
TOOTH-COLORED RESTORATIONS
Composite fillings
in Thousand Oaks.
Repair the damaged area.
Restore the tooth’s shape and function.
At Lombard Dental Studio, Dr. Vadim Lebovich assesses tooth decay and damage and explains your restorative options. A composite filling can provide a tooth-colored repair for suitable front or back teeth.
WHAT IS A COMPOSITE FILLING?
A direct repair
for part of your tooth.
A filling restores an area affected by a cavity or other damage. Composite is placed and shaped directly in the prepared tooth, with a shade selected to blend with its surroundings.
Restore shape and function
A suitable filling repairs the damaged area and restores the tooth’s contour.
Care chosen for your tooth
The examination determines whether a filling or another restoration is appropriate.
UNDERSTAND THE MATERIAL
Resin and filler particles.
A material made for repair.
Composite combines a resin matrix with reinforcing particles. The material is bonded to the tooth and hardened according to the product used, commonly with a curing light.
Composite is technique-sensitive: a clean, dry working area and appropriate bonding and curing are important. It can wear or fracture and does not make the tooth immune to new decay.
ADA guide to restorative materials ↗FRONT TEETH & BACK TEETH
Appearance and bite.
Consider both.
Composite can be used in front and back teeth. The size and location of the repair, remaining tooth structure, and chewing forces affect suitability.
Front-tooth composite fillings
A filling may repair suitable decay or damage while restoring the visible contour. Ask how shade, shape, and the location of the repair affect the result.
Explore cosmetic bonding ↗Back-tooth composite fillings
Back teeth carry chewing forces. Small to moderate repairs may suit composite; more extensive damage can call for additional coverage.
Compare inlays & onlays ↗WHAT TO EXPECT
Your filling appointment,
step by step.
Many direct fillings can be completed in one appointment. Confirm the time needed for your tooth and any other care before scheduling.
Assess and plan
Examine the tooth, review appropriate imaging, and discuss the recommended repair and cost.
Prepare the tooth
Use local anesthesia when needed, manage the affected area, and prepare for bonding.
Place and harden
Place composite using the selected technique and harden it according to the material’s requirements.
Shape and check
Finish the restoration, check your bite, and explain aftercare and follow-up.
AFTER YOUR VISIT
Look after the repair.
Keep looking after the tooth.
Follow the instructions for your appointment, especially while the mouth is numb. Ask what sensitivity to expect and when to contact the office.
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth daily.
- Keep recommended examination and cleaning visits.
- Tell us about grinding, clenching, or an uneven bite.
- Report persistent pain, sensitivity, chipping, or looseness.
A filling does not last forever. Reviews help assess its condition and the surrounding tooth.
Everyday dental hygiene ↗
FILLING COST & INSURANCE
Know the estimate
before treatment.
The tooth, number of surfaces, size of the repair, and other care affect cost. Ask for a written estimate and confirmation of any insurance benefits or material-related limits.
Coverage varies. Your team can discuss payment options and explain the proposed treatment so you can make an informed decision.
Explore payment options ↗BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Your composite
filling questions.
Bring your questions about appearance, comfort, materials, longevity, and cost.
What are composite dental fillings?
Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations used to repair areas of decay or damage. The material is bonded to the prepared tooth and shaped to restore its contour and function.
What are composite fillings made of?
Dental composite contains a resin matrix reinforced with small filler particles, such as glass or silica. Formulations vary. Ask about the material being used and mention any known material allergies.
Can composite fillings be used on front teeth?
Yes. Composite can repair suitable areas of decay or damage on front teeth. Shade, shape, and polish affect appearance, but the extent of damage and bite still determine whether a filling is appropriate.
Can composite be used on back teeth?
Yes, in suitable cases. The size of the restoration, remaining tooth, and chewing forces matter. A tooth with extensive damage or weakened cusps may need an onlay or crown instead.
How long do composite fillings last?
There is no fixed lifespan for every filling. Size, location, material, bite forces, grinding, and daily care affect longevity. Regular exams help identify wear, cracks, or decay around a restoration.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Local anesthesia may be used to help you stay comfortable. Tell the clinician about anxiety, sensitivity, or previous numbing difficulties. Ask what discomfort to expect afterward and how to contact the office if it persists.
Can I eat after a composite filling?
Follow the instructions for your treatment and wait until numbness has worn off before chewing. The resin is hardened during placement, but your dentist may give additional guidance based on the tooth and procedure.
What if my bite feels high or the tooth stays sensitive?
Contact the office if biting feels uneven or painful, or sensitivity is persistent or worsening. The filling and tooth need assessment; symptoms should not simply be assumed to be normal.
Should I replace my silver fillings?
A change in appearance alone is not an automatic reason to remove a sound filling. The FDA does not recommend removing amalgam that is in good condition with no underlying decay unless medically necessary. Discuss any concerns with your dentist.
Can a damaged filling be repaired?
Some defects can be repaired; others require replacement or a different restoration. An examination helps assess the filling, surrounding tooth, and any new decay before choosing an approach.
How much do tooth fillings cost?
Costs vary by tooth, number of surfaces, size, and any other treatment needed. Ask for a written estimate and confirmation of your insurance benefits. Coverage for composite can differ between plans and tooth locations.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Get the tooth checked.
Understand the repair.
Visit Lombard Dental Studio in Thousand Oaks to discuss a cavity, damaged tooth, or existing filling that needs attention.
Visit our studio
245 Lombard St
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Monday–Friday · 10 am–5 pm
Contact & directions ↗Further reading: ADA: tooth-colored fillings · NIDCR: dental fillings · FDA: existing amalgam fillings · ADA: restoration repair
