Composite Fillings
Natural-Looking Fillings That Blend in with Your Smile
Cavities are common, but fixing them doesn’t have to mean noticeable silver fillings. Composite fillings are designed to repair decay while matching the natural colour of your teeth, so your smile still looks like your smile.
These tooth-coloured fillings restore strength to the tooth, help prevent further damage, and blend in seamlessly with the surrounding enamel.
Not every cavity hurts right away.
In fact, many start small and painless, which is why they’re easy to ignore. The problem is that cavities don’t stop on their own. Over time, they continue to grow deeper into the tooth, often leading to bigger problems later.
Treating decay early can help you:
- Prevent toothaches and sensitivity
- Avoid infections or dental abscesses
- Preserve more of your natural tooth
- Reduce the need for more extensive treatment later
- Restore comfortable chewing and biting
- Keep your smile healthy and natural-looking
A small filling now is usually much easier than treating a larger problem later on.
Composite fillings are made from durable resin material that bonds directly to the tooth.
Because they’re carefully colour-matched, they blend naturally with your smile and are often barely noticeable.
Compared to traditional metal fillings, composite fillings:
- Look more natural
- Require less removal of healthy tooth structure
- Bond securely to the tooth
- Help strengthen and support the remaining tooth
The result is a restoration that looks good, feels comfortable, and functions naturally.
What to Expect During Treatment
Getting a filling is a straightforward, routine procedure focused on keeping you comfortable from start to finish.
The earlier a cavity is treated, the simpler the solution usually is.
Gentle Numbing
Before we begin, we carefully numb the area to make sure you stay comfortable throughout the appointment.
Removing the Decay
The damaged portion of the tooth is gently cleaned and prepared, removing any decay while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Placing the Filling
The tooth-coloured composite material is applied in layers, shaped to fit your tooth naturally, and carefully adjusted to ensure your bite feels comfortable.
Hardening and Polishing
A special curing light hardens the filling in seconds. Once complete, we polish the tooth so it feels smooth and natural.
Strong, Comfortable, and Made to Blend In
Most patients forget they even have a filling once the treatment is complete. Composite fillings are designed to restore the function of your tooth while keeping your smile looking natural and healthy
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do fillings last?
With regular brushing, flossing, and scheduled dental visits, your fillings should typically last well over ten years.
What about amalgam, silver or mercury fillings?
Those silver fillings you might have heard about—they’re actually made from something called dental amalgam. Some people call them ‘silver’ or ‘mercury’ fillings because of their colour. There’s been a lot of talk about whether they’re safe, but according to the Canadian Dental Association, studies haven’t shown them to make people sick. So, if you’ve got silver fillings already, no need to worry!
Can I use a homemade tooth filling?
Using a homemade tooth filling as a temporary solution is possible with over-the-counter products, but it’s important to understand they are not a permanent fix and should not replace a professional filling. A cavity represents permanent damage to the tooth that requires cleaning, preparation, and filling by a dental professional. Allowing dental decay to progress unchecked poses serious risks; untreated cavities can lead to tooth loss and other potential complications.
How can I treat dental pain from a cavity?
If you’re dealing with intense tooth pain that’s making eating or sleeping difficult, it’s definitely a dental emergency—reach out to us right away so we can assist you. While you wait, try applying a cold pack on the outside of your cheek near the sore spot to ease the ache. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can also help relieve the discomfort. Just remember to follow the dosage instructions, and let us know what you’ve taken when you visit. We’re here to help you get comfortable and resolve the issue as quickly as possible!
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are considered safe. They are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles and have been used in dentistry for decades. They are preferred for their natural appearance and ability to bond directly to the tooth structure.
How long do composite fillings typically last?
Composite fillings can last for many years with proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Their lifespan can vary based on factors like the size of the filling and the location in your mouth.