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 is a type of resin made from a mixture of glass and plastic which, when hardened, looks just like dental enamel. It can be colour-matched to blend in perfectly with the natural tooth.
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For most patients, composite fillings are the obvious choice. They blend in beautifully with your natural teeth and can’t be seen when you talk or smile. Also, the modern materials we use make them a durable choice, with properties similar to that of silver amalgam and needing less of the natural tooth to be removed before placement. Composite is also metal free and contains no mercury.
We can replace noticeable metal fillings with white composite for a more aesthetic appearance.
As composite fillings are hardened and set immediately, there is no need to wait before eating or drinking. You may wish to choose softer foods, or to chew on the other side of your mouth, for the first couple of hours after treatment if you are experiencing any numbness from the local anaesthetic.
Yes, dental composite is very easy to repair. It bonds to itself as well as to your tooth, so it is very easy for us to mend small areas of damage. If your filling is significantly damaged, we may choose to remove and replace it instead.
Composite fillings can become loose or weakened over time, as a result of daily chewing and use. They are not expected to last forever, but if they do fall out it is important to contact us as soon as you can so we can arrange for a replacement to be fitted. Sometimes, the first sign that your composite filling has fallen out will be feeling something hard in your mouth that shouldn’t be there, or noticing a hole in your tooth which may be causing sensitivity.
The best way to care for your filling is to treat it as an integral part of your natural tooth. Brush and floss twice a day and attend your regular dental examination appointments, where your dentist will be able to keep an eye on your filling, any other dental restorations, and your overall oral health.
We are happy to help answer your questions or discuss your treatment options - please get in touch.
