Tooth-Colored Fillings in Temecula, CA

When a dentist discovers one or more cavities in your teeth, it’s essential to have the option of tooth-colored or white fillings. Otherwise, you may be stuck with amalgam or metal restorations.

Metal fillings can detract from the beauty of your smile, and some studies suggest they may pose health risks.

The cosmetic dentists at Rancho Dental in Temecula, California, are committed to our patients’ overall oral health and ensuring that their smiles remain bright. For this reason, we offer tooth-colored fillings. 

Call Rancho Dental in Temecula today at (951) 699-4746 to learn more about tooth-colored fillings and our other cosmetic dental services.

Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Restorations Right for You?

If you or a loved one visit the dentist due to pain around a tooth or had a cavity diagnosed on a routine dental visit, you will likely require treatment with a filling (if decay has not spread far). 

For a long time, metal (amalgam) fillings were the only choice. Composite resin fillings became available on a small scale in the 1960s but were not widely available until the 1980s. Even then, they were more expensive and rarely covered by insurance.

Earlier forms of composite fillings didn’t last as long as amalgam, and it’s taken a long time, but today, white, tooth-colored fillings outperform amalgam and are the cavity restoration of choice for most dentists. Some dentists don’t even offer metal fillings anymore. 

Many insurance companies now cover most of the cost of composite fillings.

What Are My Metal-Free Dental Filling Options?

At Rancho Dental, all our restorations are customized to meet your specific needs.

Our dentists use the most advanced dental composites and can precisely match the color of your tooth with the wide range of tints available.

These fillings are highly flexible and adhere nicely to the natural tooth structure.

How Do White Dental Fillings Work?

A filling is a simple dental restoration used to repair a decayed tooth. This decay causes a hole (cavity or dental carie) in the enamel and dentin of the tooth. If decay spreads past this point and reaches the nerve root, additional treatment will be necessary in the form of root canal therapy or RTC.

The following steps are involved when treating cavities that only require a filling.

  • Gently administer novocaine into the gum tissue surrounding the affected tooth
  • Thoroughly remove decay
  • Place the filling material
  • Restore the shape of the tooth
  • Check the bite and adjust as needed
  • Set the filling with UV light

What Happens After Receiving Metal-Free Dental Restorations?

Composite resin fillings harden as soon as the UV light is applied, so you will be able to eat right away. However, you should avoid hard foods for 24 hours. For softer foods, wait until you are no longer dumb to avoid biting your lip or tongue.

What Kind of Results Should You Expect With Non-Metal Restorations?

You can expect tooth-colored fillings to blend in with your natural teeth, and if all else is well, your smile will be as beautiful as it was before.

How to Care for Your New Smile

Continue to practice proper care for your teeth and gums:

  • Brush twice per day in the morning and evening
  • Floss daily
  • Use an appropriate mouthwash for your needs (anti-cavity, anti-tartar, whitening)
  • Never use your teeth as tools or chew on non-food items
  • Eat healthy snacks and drink plenty of water 

What Do Metal-Free Fillings Cost?

Composite fillings still cost a little bit more than amalgam, but most of this could be covered by your insurance. Exact prices will depend on the condition of the tooth or teeth being treated.

Other Cosmetic Dental Services We Offer in Temecula

Rancho Dental offers a wide range of restorative and cosmetic dentistry services.  

If you are interested in improving your smile, we offer the following options, which just might be the solution you need:

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth-Colored or White Fillings

How do I know if I need a filling?

Dental pain is a sign of decay, and it’s important to see a dentist quickly to prevent it from spreading into the root. The only way to address issues with your teeth is by making a dental appointment.

What shouldn’t I do after getting a filling?

Avoid eating while your mouth is numb. Chewing when your mouth is still numb can cause you to bite your tongue, cheeks, or lips. Wait until the anesthetic wears off before attempting to eat.

Also, avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods for two weeks. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, you should not eat or drink extremely hot or cold foods and beverages.

Try not to bite down too hard or grind your teeth, as dental restorations can only take so much pressure and can crack under some circumstances. The bigger the filling, the more vulnerable they are, so make sure to treat your teeth gently.

What if I have pain following a filling?

It is normal to experience some pain or sensitivity to hot, cold, and pressure after receiving your composite filling. Ibuprofen, TYLENOL®, or aspirin are recommended to help alleviate any discomfort.

If sensitivity to hot and cold or pain persists for more than a few days, or if these symptoms increase, please contact our office.

What if I have nausea following a filling?

If you experience nausea after your dental filling appointment, avoid eating or drinking for at least one hour. You can take small sips of ginger ale or tea.

How do I take care of my teeth after a filling?

We recommend brushing your teeth and rinsing gently on the day you receive your filing. You should be able to brush regularly after that.

Call Rancho Dental for Your Dental Restoration Needs

Call Rancho Dental in Temecula, California, today if you need more information about composite or white dental fillings. Our team is happy to answer your questions or schedule a visit for you to discuss all your dental concerns. Call 951-699-4746 or use our contact form.