A Brighter Dental Experience
Tooth-Colored White Fillings in Beverly Hills
A cavity is a small hole in your tooth caused by decay, and once it forms, it will not heal on its own. A filling removes the decay and seals the tooth so it can keep doing its job. At Applemint in Beverly Hills, we use tooth-colored composite fillings instead of metal. Composite is bonded directly to your tooth and shaded to match it, so the repair is strong, mercury-free and very hard to spot, even on a back tooth when you laugh. We can also replace older metal fillings when they are worn, cracked or simply not the look you want.
Benefits
- Shaded to blend with your natural tooth color
- Mercury-free composite resin
- Bonds directly to your tooth for a tight seal
- Often needs less drilling than a metal filling
- Usually finished in a single visit
- Can replace old metal fillings when it makes sense
Signs You May Have a Cavity
Early cavities often cause no symptoms at all, which is why many are found at routine checkups before you notice anything. As decay grows, you may start to feel or see it. Common signs include:
- Sensitivity to sweets, hot or cold drinks
- A sharp twinge or ache when you bite down
- A dark spot, stain or white chalky area on a tooth
- A small hole or rough edge you can feel with your tongue
- Food that keeps catching in the same spot
- A filling that feels rough, chipped or loose
If you notice any of these, book a visit. A small cavity is usually a simple filling, while a cavity left to grow can reach the nerve and may need a root canal or a crown.
Composite Compared with Metal Fillings
For many years, silver amalgam was the standard filling material. It is durable and still used in some situations, but composite resin has become the first choice for most patients who want a natural look. Here is how the two compare:
- Appearance. Composite is matched to the shade of your tooth. Amalgam is silver and tends to darken over time, and it can give the surrounding tooth a gray tint.
- How it holds. Composite bonds to the tooth, which helps seal the edges. Amalgam is held in place mechanically, so the tooth usually needs more shaping to keep it in.
- Tooth structure. Because composite bonds, your dentist can often remove only the decay and keep more of your healthy tooth.
- Durability. Amalgam is very hard wearing. Modern composite is strong enough for most back teeth, though very large fillings or heavy grinding may call for an onlay or crown instead.
Replacing Old Metal Fillings
Yes, we can replace old metal fillings with tooth-colored composite. We also want to be straightforward with you. The American Dental Association and the FDA consider sound, intact amalgam fillings safe for most people, and they generally do not recommend removing a healthy filling only because it contains mercury. Removing a filling also takes away a little more tooth each time.
Replacement does make sense when:
- The filling is cracked, chipped or worn down
- The edges are leaking or have pulled away from the tooth
- There is new decay underneath or around it
- The tooth around it has cracked
- You would like a more natural look when you smile
At your exam, we will look closely at each older filling and tell you honestly which ones need attention and which can stay.
Matching Your Shade, and Whitening First
Composite is matched to your teeth on the day it is placed, and it will not change color afterward. Whitening lightens natural enamel but not fillings, crowns or veneers. If you are thinking about whitening, it is best to do it before any visible fillings are placed or replaced, so we can match your new, brighter shade. Many patients pair new front fillings with KöR whitening for this reason. If you already have composite fillings and whiten later, we can talk about updating any that no longer match.
Caring for Your Fillings and Preventing New Cavities
With good care, composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years or longer, though how long yours lasts depends on its size, where it is and your habits. Composite can pick up surface stains over time, much like natural teeth.
To protect your fillings and the rest of your teeth:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily
- Limit sugary snacks and sipping on sweet or acidic drinks
- Avoid chewing ice, pens or other hard objects
- Ask about a night guard if you clench or grind
- Keep up with regular cleanings and checkups so we can catch small problems early
The Process, Step by Step
Exam and X-rays
We examine the tooth, take X-rays if needed and explain what we see, including whether a filling is the right repair or the tooth needs something more.
Numbing and comfort
We numb the area so you stay comfortable. If you feel anxious about dental work, ask us about sleep dentistry.
Removing decay
We gently remove the decayed part of the tooth, or the old filling, and clean the area.
Bonding and layering
We apply a bonding agent, then place the composite in thin layers. Each layer is hardened with a curing light that uses visible blue light.
Shaping and polishing
We shape the filling to fit your bite, check how your teeth come together and polish it to a natural shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long do white fillings last?
- With proper care, composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years or longer. Size, location, grinding and how well you care for your teeth all play a role, and we check your fillings at every visit.
- Will my tooth be sensitive afterward?
- Some mild sensitivity to cold, air or biting pressure is common for a few days to a couple of weeks, especially with deeper fillings, and it usually fades on its own. If your bite feels high, or the sensitivity is strong or getting worse, call us so we can check it.
- When can I eat after a filling?
- Composite is fully hardened by the curing light before you leave, so you can eat once the numbness wears off. Waiting helps you avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
- Should I replace my metal fillings?
- Only if there is a good reason. Intact amalgam fillings generally do not need to be removed because of mercury concerns. We recommend replacing them when they are cracked, leaking or have decay underneath, or if you would like a more natural look.
- Do white fillings stain?
- Composite can pick up some surface stains over time from coffee, tea, red wine or tobacco. Regular cleanings and polishing help keep them looking fresh.
- Can a filling be whitened?
- No. Whitening only lightens natural teeth. If you plan to whiten, we suggest doing it first so your fillings can be matched to your new shade.
- Is a filling always enough?
- Not always. If decay or a crack has taken out a large part of the tooth, an onlay or crown may protect it better. If decay has reached the nerve, the tooth may need a root canal first.
Ready to get started?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your White Fillings options.