Restore your tooth naturally.
Dental fillings repair teeth affected by decay, small cracks, chips or other minor damage while helping restore their natural shape, strength and function.
Tooth-coloured restoration
Composite resin can be matched to the natural colour of your tooth and carefully shaped to restore its appearance and function.
Repairing damaged teeth
Small problems don't have to become big ones
Tooth decay can create a cavity in the tooth. Depending on the extent of the damage, a filling may be used to remove the affected area and restore the tooth.
Fillings can also be used in some situations to repair small chips, cracks, worn areas or minor changes in the shape of a tooth.
At The Dental Bach, we commonly use tooth-coloured composite resin fillings where appropriate, helping the restoration blend naturally with your existing teeth.
When are fillings needed?
More than just cavities
Your dentist will assess the tooth and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the amount and location of damage.
Tooth Decay
Fillings can repair teeth affected by cavities and restore the damaged area.
Small Chips
Composite resin can sometimes be used to rebuild small areas of chipped tooth.
Minor Cracks
Some small areas of damage can be repaired with a tooth-coloured restoration.
Minor Shape Changes
Composite can sometimes be used to improve the shape or appearance of a small area of tooth.
Tooth-coloured fillings
Composite resin fillings
Composite resin is a tooth-coloured restorative material that can be matched to the natural colour of your tooth. It starts as a workable material and is carefully placed, shaped and hardened using a special dental light.
Composite can be a good option for many small to medium restorations where a natural-looking result is important. Your dentist will consider the size and location of the restoration when recommending the most suitable approach.
Designed to look like your natural tooth
The composite is selected to complement your existing tooth colour and shaped carefully to restore the tooth's natural contours.
The treatment process
What happens when you get a filling?
For many smaller restorations, treatment can be completed during a single appointment.
Assess the Tooth
Your dentist examines the tooth and determines whether a filling is appropriate.
Prepare the Area
The affected area is carefully prepared so the restoration can be placed securely.
Place the Composite
Tooth-coloured composite is applied, shaped and hardened using a dental curing light.
Shape & Check
The restoration is shaped and polished before your bite and comfort are checked.
Not every tooth needs a filling
Sometimes a different restoration is better
The right treatment depends on how much of the tooth has been affected. If a tooth has extensive damage, a filling may not provide enough support or protection.
Depending on the situation, your dentist may discuss alternatives such as a crown, inlay, onlay or other restorative treatment.
Learn about dental crownsLarger damage
A larger restoration may require additional protection.
Weakened tooth
Significant loss of tooth structure may change the treatment recommendation.
Individual assessment
Your dentist will explain which option is most suitable for your tooth.
Looking after your restoration
Good care helps protect your teeth
A filling repairs a damaged area, but the rest of the tooth still needs regular care. Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations can help reduce the risk of further decay and help us monitor existing restorations.
Prevention is better than repair
Looking after your teeth helps reduce the chance of developing new cavities and needing additional restorations.
Frequently asked questions
Dental filling FAQs
How long does a dental filling take?
The time depends on the size and location of the filling. Many smaller composite restorations can be completed during a single appointment.
Will my filling look natural?
Composite resin is tooth-coloured and can be matched to the surrounding tooth. The material is then shaped and polished to create a natural-looking restoration.
Can fillings fix chipped or cracked teeth?
Composite can be suitable for some small chips, cracks and minor shape changes. Larger or more complex damage may require a different type of restoration.
How long do fillings last?
No filling lasts forever. How long a restoration remains healthy depends on factors such as its size and location, chewing forces, oral hygiene and the health of the surrounding tooth.
Can an old filling be replaced?
An existing filling does not necessarily need to be replaced simply because it is old. Your dentist can assess its condition and recommend replacement if there is a clinical reason to do so.
What if the decay is too deep for a filling?
If decay or damage has affected a large part of the tooth, a different restoration may be more appropriate. If the nerve or pulp has become infected, root canal treatment may also be considered.
Restore your smile
Ready to repair your tooth?
Whether you have a cavity, chipped tooth or an old filling that needs checking, we can assess your tooth and talk you through your options.