Restorative Dentistry
Tooth-Colored Fillings
A filling repairs a tooth damaged by a cavity or a small chip. We use tooth-colored composite material that bonds directly to the tooth and is matched to your natural shade, so the repair blends right in and no one can tell you've had work done.
At a glance
- Typical visit
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Visits needed
- Usually one
- Material
- Tooth-coloured composite
- Comfort
- Local anaesthetic
What it is
A good number of the fillings we place are in molars, and that follows from what molars do. They carry the chewing load, and their biting surfaces are folded into grooves that hold plaque where a brush cannot reach — so the back of the mouth is where decay most often begins. A molar filling also has to withstand real force every time you eat, which is why we shape it to your bite and check it carefully before you leave.
Treating a cavity early with a filling stops decay from spreading and helps you avoid more involved treatment later. The result is a tooth that looks natural and works just like it should.
Who it's for
- Anyone with a cavity that needs to be repaired
- People with small chips, cracks, or worn spots on a tooth
- Patients who want to replace old, dark, or worn metal fillings
- Anyone wanting a natural-looking, mercury-free repair
What to expect
- 1
Gentle numbing
We make sure the area is fully numb so the visit is comfortable from start to finish.
- 2
Removing decay
We carefully clean out the decayed or damaged part of the tooth.
- 3
Placing the filling
Tooth-colored material is shaped, bonded, and hardened to restore the tooth.
- 4
Final polish
We check how your teeth meet, adjust the filling until the bite feels even, and polish it so it feels smooth and natural.
Recovery & aftercare
You can usually eat and drink soon after a filling, though we'll let you know when the numbness has worn off. Some short-lived sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal for a few days.
Brush and floss as usual, and your filling should serve you well for years. If sensitivity lingers or your bite feels off, give us a call so we can fine-tune it.
Common questions
- Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as metal ones?
- Modern composite fillings are durable and bond directly to the tooth, making them a strong, long-lasting choice for most cavities — with the bonus of looking completely natural.
- Will getting a filling hurt?
- We numb the area first, so the procedure itself is comfortable. Afterward, any mild sensitivity usually fades within a few days.
- Can I replace my old silver fillings?
- Yes. Many patients choose to swap aging metal fillings for tooth-colored ones for a more natural look. We're happy to talk through your options.
- Why does a back tooth need a proper repair if nobody sees it?
- Because a molar's job is mechanical, not cosmetic. It grinds your food, holds its neighbours in position, and helps carry your bite. A repair back there has to restore the tooth's shape and strength, and it has to fit your bite precisely — otherwise the tooth takes the load unevenly. Being out of sight makes it no less worth doing properly.
- When is a filling not enough for a molar?
- If decay or a crack has taken away enough tooth that the remaining walls are thin, a large filling can leave the tooth liable to fracture under chewing pressure. In that case a crown, which covers and holds the whole tooth together, is usually the more durable choice. We'll show you what we see and explain why we're recommending one over the other.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.
Talk to us about tooth-colored fillings
Have questions or ready to get started? Book a visit and we'll examine, explain your options clearly, and care for your smile from start to finish.