Composite Fillings

Aesthetic and effective repairs for damaged teeth

Having a tooth filled is an incredibly common dental procedure, treating dental cavities and damage. Composite fillings offer an aesthetic repair, rebuilding teeth and restoring them back to full functionality. Dental composite looks just like dental enamel and can be colour-matched to blend in perfectly with your natural tooth.

Why have white fillings?

They blend in beautifully with your natural teeth

Modern materials make them a durable choice

Less of the tooth needs to be removed before placement of the filling

They can restore decayed, chipped, worn or broken teeth

What is involved in having a tooth filled?

Preparation

We numb the affected area using local anaesthetic, and carefully remove the decayed part of your tooth before cleaning it thoroughly. We apply an acidic gel to your tooth, which creates tiny holes to allow the composite material to bond to it and create an effective repair.

Application

We carefully colour match the composite material to the shade of your natural tooth, and apply it in layers, gradually building up the shape. We can mould the composite, so it fits perfectly in your tooth cavity and feels comfortable.

Polish

We harden the composite material using a UV light and give it a professional polish, so it looks and feels like a natural part of your tooth.

Frequently asked questions

Are white fillings better than silver amalgam fillings?

Many people opt for a white filling over the more traditional silver amalgam for aesthetic reasons, as the silver stands out a lot more in the mouth. A white dental filling has many of the same strong and durable qualities as amalgam and contains no metal.

Can white teeth fillings be seen in the mouth?

White fillings blend beautifully into your natural teeth, and can’t be seen when you talk, laugh or smile. We ensure the composite material is colour matched to the shade of your natural teeth to give the most aesthetic repair possible.

Should I have my silver fillings changed to white composite?

If you have silver amalgam fillings and would like a more aesthetic alternative, we can change them for white composite. We remove the entire silver filling, clean your tooth and apply the composite to the tooth cavity for a natural looking repair.

Can my white filling be repaired if it gets damaged?

Yes, a composite dental filling can be easily repaired if it becomes damaged. As the composite is applied in layers and can bond to itself, we can add more material to cover the damage to your filling. In some cases, we may opt to remove the whole filling and replace it, but this still can be achieved in a single appointment.

How do I look after my white composite dental filling?

The best way to look after your white filling is to simply treat it as part of your natural tooth. Brush and floss twice a day to prevent decay forming and visit your dentist for regular check-up appointments.