Composite Fillings

At Fletcher Dental Care, we believe that restorative treatments should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Composite Fillings, also known as tooth-coloured fillings, are a popular choice for repairing cavities and minor tooth damage. Made from a blend of fine glass and plastic particles, composite fillings match the natural colour of your teeth, providing a seamless, durable solution for treating decay or damage. Our skilled team ensures that each filling is expertly applied, giving you a comfortable, long-lasting restoration that blends beautifully with your smile.

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are a modern alternative to traditional metal (amalgam) fillings. They are designed to blend with the natural shade of your teeth, making them ideal for treating visible areas such as front teeth, as well as molars. Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing extra support and reducing the risk of further damage. This makes them not only more attractive but also a structurally sound solution for restoring your teeth.

Benefits of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings offer several advantages over traditional filling materials:

Aesthetic Appeal: Composite fillings are tooth-coloured, so they blend naturally with your smile, unlike silver amalgam fillings which can be noticeable.
Durability: Composite fillings are highly durable, making them suitable for small to moderate cavities, even in molars.
Minimally Invasive: Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, allowing for a more conservative approach that preserves more of your natural tooth structure.
Improved Bonding Strength: The material bonds well to the tooth surface, providing additional support and preventing further breakage.
Versatile Application: Composite fillings can be used to repair chips, cracks, and worn areas, as well as filling cavities.

The Composite Filling Procedure

Receiving a composite filling is a simple, straightforward process that typically takes only one visit to our office. Here’s what you can expect:

Who Can Benefit from Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are ideal for patients of all ages who need to restore a tooth with a small to moderate cavity or minor damage. They’re especially suitable for:

Cavities in Visible Areas: If you have a cavity in a tooth that’s visible when you smile, composite fillings provide a discreet, aesthetically pleasing solution.
Small to Moderate Cavities: Composite fillings are best suited for cavities that do not compromise a large portion of the tooth structure. For more extensive decay, other restorative options, like inlays, onlays, or crowns, may be more appropriate.
Minor Tooth Damage: Composite fillings are a versatile solution for repairing minor chips, cracks, or wear in teeth, helping to restore function and prevent further damage.

Aftercare for Composite Fillings

Caring for your composite fillings is straightforward and requires the same daily oral hygiene practices as your natural teeth. Here are some tips to keep your fillings in top condition:

Brush and Floss Daily: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily to maintain your filling and prevent future cavities.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While composite fillings are durable, chewing on hard objects or sticky foods can increase the risk of damage.
Regular Dental Checkups: Visiting our office every six months allows us to check your fillings for signs of wear and address any issues early.

Fletcher Dental Care’s Commitment to Quality Restorations

At Fletcher Dental Care, we use only the highest quality composite materials to ensure a durable, aesthetically pleasing result. Our team is committed to providing minimally invasive treatments that preserve your natural tooth structure and enhance your smile. We take pride in our attention to detail and patient-focused approach, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction with each visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do composite fillings last?

Composite fillings can last 5 to 10 years or more with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Their longevity depends on factors like the size and location of the filling, as well as your oral care habits.

Are composite fillings better than amalgam fillings?

Composite fillings are preferred for their aesthetic appeal and bonding strength, as they blend with natural teeth and require less removal of tooth structure. However, amalgam fillings are sometimes chosen for large cavities in molars, where durability under heavy chewing forces is paramount.

Do composite fillings stain over time?

Composite fillings can stain slightly over time, particularly if exposed to staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine. Regular brushing and reducing consumption of these substances can help prevent staining.

Is the composite filling procedure painful?

We numb the area before starting the procedure, so you shouldn’t feel any discomfort. Afterward, some patients may experience minor sensitivity, which typically subsides within a few days.

Can composite fillings be used to replace old fillings?

Yes, composite fillings can be used to replace old metal fillings, providing a more natural look and a better seal. Replacing old fillings may also help if there’s recurrent decay or damage around the existing filling.

How should I care for my composite fillings at home?

Brush and floss daily, avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the filling, and maintain regular dental checkups to ensure the filling stays in good condition. These steps will help extend the life of your composite fillings.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Let our caring team make your next visit effortless, and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns—we’re here to support you every step of the way.