Composite Fillings

Composite Fillings: A Guide to Tooth-Colored Restorations

When treating a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill it with another substance. This procedure is called a filling. There are multiple options for the material to be used in the filling, the most common of which are composite fillings and amalgam fillings.

A composite filling is also known as a tooth colored filling, since the material used in the filling can be closely matched to the color of your teeth. Composite fillings provide good durability for small to medium cavities, and the procedure typically involves removing less of a tooth than you would during an amalgam filling. They are also particularly well suited for treating front or highly visible teeth because of their natural look.

When can a composite filling be used for?

Decayed tooth (i.e. cavity)
Chipped or broken teeth
Decreasing the gap between teeth

How its done

After the dentist numbs the area where the filling is to be placed, he will remove any decayed portions. A substance is then applied to help open up the pores of your teeth for a stronger bond, and hardened and cured with a special light. Once this is complete, the filling is applied in thin layers to slowly form the complete filling. After the composite has hardened, the filling will be smoothened and polished to be comfortable and fit your bite.

Meet Your Award-Winning Doctors

At Mid Missouri Dental Center, Dr. Michael Todd, Dr. Susan Lance and Dr. Charlotte Stueve are committed to providing excellence in dentistry, and each stands out as leading dentists in Columbia, MO. They use the latest in dentistry techniques to provide you with a beautiful and healthy smile. Additionally, we believe strongly in education to prevent oral health problems before they occur, and makes sure to keep patients fully informed about their dental health.

Dr. Michael Todd

Dr. Susan Lance

Dr. Charlotte Stueve

We Love Hearing From Our Patients

Reviews

Positive Feedback & Testimonials

Robyn was amazing with my 4-year-old. It was his first time feeling comfortable enough to do x-rays. She talked about everything beforehand to ensure he had nothing to be afraid of. He let her use the teeth cleaning device, suction, and water without throwing a fit at all. She provided so much patience and that made all the difference for my son. Thank you so much Robyn!

I am giving them 5 stars! My daughter is VERY hard to handle when it comes to these types of situations! The team was VERY outstanding with their patience with her! The did everything in their power to help keep her calm and to have my back as her mother! Thank you guys very much for your support! I know that wasn't easy!

My daughters were both first time patients here and they loved it! Dr. Charlotte was amazing with them and the hygienists took the time to explain what all the tools were and that nothing would hurt or be scary! Highly recommend taking your children here.

I love Dr. Lance and Derik (don’t hate me if I spelled your name wrong lol) so much! They are always so kind to me and my kiddos! I am gonna be sad when my kids are too old to go there but until then we will be back every 6 months for a visit! You all rock! Only complaint is I like to bring my water bottle in and I’m not allowed lol!

Composite Fillings