Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings
A composite filling is used to restore a tooth affected by decay, cracks, fractures, or other damage. The affected portion of the tooth is removed and replaced with a composite material.
There are several types of filling materials, each with its own advantages. Your dentist will help determine the best option for your specific needs. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam, are among the most commonly used today. Because composite fillings are tooth-colored, they blend seamlessly with natural teeth and are ideal for front teeth or other visible areas.
Like most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent but are highly durable and can last many years, helping maintain a long-lasting, attractive smile.
Reasons for Composite Fillings:
- Chipped teeth
- Closing gaps between teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Worn teeth
How Composite Fillings Are Placed
Composite fillings are usually completed in a single visit. After numbing the tooth, your dentist will remove any decay and thoroughly clean and prepare the space. If the decay is close to the nerve, a protective medication may be applied. The composite material is then carefully placed, shaped, and polished to restore the tooth’s natural form and function.
Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal when the filling is first placed, but this typically subsides as the tooth adjusts.
You will receive care instructions following your treatment. Maintaining good oral hygiene, healthy eating habits, and regular dental visits will help prolong the life of your new fillings.