Composite Fillings

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair teeth that are broken, decayed, broken, chipped, fractured, ect. The procedure is very simple; the broken or decayed part of the tooth is removed (painless) and then the hole is filled with composite. Prior to the composite filling, a shade will be selected so that the color of the composite filling will match the current tooth. Every effort is made to make sure that those composite fillings will not affect your smile.

There are various types of filling materials. Each material will have its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
However, the most commonly used are composite (tooth colored) fillings and silver amalgam. Silver amalgam fillings are used towards the back of the mouth (either top or bottom) typically where they will not affect your smile. On the other hand, composite fillings do a better job matching to teeth and they tend to work best on teeth that are visible while smiling. We use these most often because of the long lasting results and because it is a very low cost to the patient.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings and silver amalgam fillings are not permanent. At some point in time, they may have to be replaced. That being said, they are very
durable and will provide you will many long lasting years, giving you that beautiful smile that you have always wanted.

Reasons for Composite Fillings:
- To close spacing between two teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Decayed tooth/teeth
- Worn teeth
- Chipped tooth/teeth

What is involved in a Composite Filling?

This procedure takes one appointment. While your tooth is numb (with novocain), we will extract any decay, broken pieces, ect. The empty space will then be cleaned and prepared for the composite filling. The pain level is below minimal for most patients. Occasionally the decay is near the nerve of the tooth, when this occurs we will pay extra special attention to the area. We will ensure that you will not be in any pain during the procedure.

After the procedure you will be given post procedural care instructions. For example, some patients experience a sensitivity to hot and cold after a composite filling is placed. This is completely normal and will subside after the tooth becomes acquainted with the new composite filling. As with any examination or procedure good oral hygiene practices, and regular dental examination visits will be encouraged to maintain the life of the fillings and your smile.










Shown above, the silver amalgam filling to the left, and the composite (tooth colored) filling to the right.