What are composite dental fillings, and what are their benefits?

At RK Dentistry of Danville, California, Dr. Richard J. Koeltl likes to ensure that all dental work completed in his practice is natural-looking and durable. When patients present with tooth decay, he often recommends composite resin dental fillings. Composite restorations are an excellent solution for patients who have cavities and are seeking a solution that doesn’t “look” like dental work and is visible to others when speaking and laughing. Continue reading to learn more about composite dental fillings and their many benefits!

What are composite dental fillings?

Dr. Richard J. Koeltl of RK Dentistry describes composite dental fillings as tooth-colored fillings used to treat tooth decay. These fillings are made of resin material, and they bond directly to the tooth. They can be used to restore decayed, cracked, or broken teeth and teeth worn from excessive grinding.

What are the advantages of composite resin fillings?

Composite dental fillings are typically preferred by patients because of their natural look and feel. Compared to traditional metal fillings, composite fillings require more precision and skill on the dentist’s part when applied. However, with technological advances, composite dental fillings have become less time-consuming and easier for dentists to apply. Additionally, other materials often used in the past for treating decay, such as silver amalgam fillings, have a high mercury content that essentially makes them toxic to the human body and puts patients at risk of mercury toxicity. These composite resin fillings are completely safe and do not expand and contract as silver amalgam fillings often do, significantly reducing the risk of infection inside the tooth due to the entry of bacteria.

Find out more about cavity-filling options at RK Dentistry!

If you would like more information about composite dental fillings, we encourage you to contact Dr. Richard J. Koeltl’s office today. He is happy to answer any questions you might have about composite restorations and tooth-colored fillings for areas of decay.

Call 925-732-5516 to request an appointment at the Danville, CA office at 4165 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Suite #200.