Composite Restorations in Southwest Houston
If you’ve chipped a tooth, have small areas of decay, or want to improve minor imperfections in your smile, composite restorations offer a conservative, aesthetic solution. At Griffith Dental Associates, we use tooth-colored composite materials to restore strength, function, and beauty to your teeth, often in just one visit.
Serving patients from Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Bellaire, and across Southwest Houston, we’re committed to providing minimally invasive restorations that support both your smile and your long-term health.
What Are Composite Restorations?
Composite restorations are made from a tooth-colored resin material that is bonded directly to your natural tooth. These restorations are highly versatile and are used to:
- Repair small chips or cracks
- Close small gaps between teeth
- Restore decayed areas
- Reshape worn or uneven teeth.
- Replace old or discolored fillings.
Unlike metal or amalgam restorations, composite materials blend seamlessly with your enamel, allowing for a restoration that is strong, smooth, and virtually invisible.
Composite restorations are a great option when traditional fillings aren’t enough, but crowns or inlays/onlays would be too extensive.
Why Patients Choose Composite Restorations
Patients often prefer composite restorations because they are:
- Aesthetic: Custom-shaded to match your teeth
- Minimally Invasive: Require less removal of healthy enamel
- Versatile: Useful for both front and back teeth
- Mercury-Free: No metal or dark lines
- Strong and Durable: Can last many years with proper care
We often recommend composite restorations for patients seeking an alternative to metal fillings or cosmetic touch-ups without the commitment of veneers.
Learn more about how this service fits into a full treatment plan by visiting our Restorative Dentistry page.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Composite restorations are completed in a single visit. The process typically involves:
- Cleaning and preparation: The affected area is cleaned, and if decay is present, it’s removed.
- Bonding: The tooth is treated with a bonding agent to help the material adhere properly.
- Shaping and curing: The composite resin is applied in layers, shaped, and hardened with a special light.
- Polishing: The final restoration is smoothed and polished for a natural look and feel.
Most patients find the process comfortable and quick, with no downtime required afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
We focus on prevention, whole-person wellness, and long-term relationships. Our care is designed to support not just oral health, but overall well-being.
Still have questions?
How long do composite restorations last?
Composite restorations typically last 5 to 10 years or more, depending on the size and location of the restoration and your oral hygiene habits.
Are composite restorations better than traditional fillings?
They offer better aesthetics and preserve more of your natural tooth structure. In many cases, they also provide a better seal and are less prone to expansion and cracking than metal fillings.
Will people be able to see the restoration?
No. Composite resin is color-matched to your natural tooth shade, so the restoration blends in seamlessly. It’s ideal for visible areas of the smile.
Do composite restorations stain?
While the material is stain-resistant, it can still discolor over time, especially with frequent consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. Good hygiene and regular cleanings help maintain the appearance.
Are these restorations covered by insurance?
Most PPO dental insurance plans cover composite restorations when medically necessary. We’ll confirm your benefits and provide a treatment plan before getting started.
Restore and Enhance Your Smile with Composite Bonding
Whether you need to repair damage or want a subtle improvement to your smile, composite restorations offer a safe, effective, and natural-looking solution. At Griffith Dental Associates, we focus on high-quality, conservative care that fits your lifestyle and supports long-term health.
Call our office at (713) 523-1666 or book your visit online. We’re proud to serve patients in Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Bellaire, and nearby communities in Southwest Houston.