Composite Fillings

When treating a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill it with another substance. This procedure is known as a filling. There are a variety of options for the filling material, the most common being a composite filling or amalgam filling.

A composite filling is also known as a tooth colored filling, since the material used in the filling can be closely matched to the color shade of your teeth. Composite fillings last for an extensive period of time for small to medium cavities, and the procedure typically involves removing less of a tooth than you would during an amalgam filling. They are also particularly well suited for treating front or highly visible teeth because of their natural look.

When can a composite filling be used for?

  • Decayed tooth (i.e. cavity)
  • Chipped or broken teeth
  • Decreasing the gap between teeth

How it’s done

After the dentist numbs the area where the filling is going to be placed, he will remove any decayed portions. A substance is then applied to help open up the pores of your teeth for a stronger bond, and hardened and cured with a special light. Once complete, the filling is applied in thin layers to slowly form the complete filling. After the composite has hardened, the filling will be smoothened and polished to comfortably fit your bite.