Why More Patients Are Choosing Tooth-Coloured Fillings
Tooth-coloured (composite) fillings are now the most common type of filling used in general dentistry. Unlike traditional silver (amalgam) fillings, these fillings are made of a durable, tooth-coloured resin that bonds directly to your enamel. This makes them an ideal option for repairing small to moderate cavities in both front and back teeth.
Benefits of tooth-coloured fillings include:
- Aesthetic appeal – The filling blends in with your natural tooth colour.
- Strong bond – Composite material adheres tightly to the tooth surface, reducing risk of further decay.
- Mercury-free – Many patients prefer composite for its biocompatibility and safety.
- Minimal drilling – Less tooth structure is removed compared to amalgam fillings.
- Versatile use – Can be used for cavities, chips, minor cracks, and old filling replacement.
At Marlborough Dental Centre, we focus on minimally invasive dentistry and long-term oral health, making tooth-coloured fillings an excellent solution for patients of all ages.
When Are Fillings Needed? Common Signs to Watch For
Not all cavities cause pain right away, but early treatment can prevent the need for larger restorations later. You may need a filling if you notice:
- Tooth sensitivity to cold or sweet foods
- Visible dark spots or pits on a tooth
- Pain when chewing
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Rough edges where a filling has worn or fallen out
We detect most cavities during regular checkups using visual exams, digital X-rays, and cavity-detection tools. Composite fillings are often recommended when decay is small to moderate in size and can be safely removed without compromising the tooth’s structure.
The Filling Process: What to Expect at Your Appointment
Getting a filling is a simple, routine procedure—and at our clinic, patient comfort is a priority. Here’s what happens during a typical filling visit:
- Numbing – Local anesthetic is applied to ensure a pain-free experience.
- Decay Removal – The dentist removes the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth.
- Tooth Preparation – The tooth is cleaned and prepared for bonding.
- Filling Application – The composite resin is applied in layers and shaped to match your natural contours.
- Curing – A blue light hardens the filling in seconds.
- Polishing – The final shape is smoothed and polished for comfort and a natural look.
Most appointments take 30–60 minutes per filling. You can eat and drink normally within a few hours after the numbness wears off.
Replacing Old Fillings: Is It Time for an Upgrade?
Many patients choose to replace old silver amalgam fillings with composite for aesthetic or structural reasons. Over time, metal fillings can:
- Expand and contract with temperature changes, leading to cracks
- Leak, stain, or cause further decay beneath the surface
- Create a greyish tint visible through the enamel
- Loosen or fall out
Tooth-coloured fillings offer a discreet alternative. At Marlborough Dental Centre, we’ll assess your existing fillings during your exam and recommend replacement only when necessary. If a filling is still functional, we won’t recommend changing it for cosmetic reasons alone, unless you request it.
Composite Fillings at Marlborough Dental Centre
When it comes to fillings, quality and technique matter. Our clinic provides durable, aesthetic restorations that stand the test of time. Here’s what you can expect from us:
- Precision shade matching for a seamless finish
- Minimally invasive techniques that preserve healthy enamel
- BPA-free, mercury-free composite materials
- Customized care for each patient’s comfort and budget
- Direct billing to most major insurance providers
- Flexible appointment times, including evenings and weekends
Our team is experienced in treating everything from early childhood decay to adult restorations and cosmetic upgrades. Whether you need one filling or several, we’ll make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Don’t Let a Small Cavity Turn Into a Big Problem
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues, but it’s also one of the easiest to treat. If you’re due for a checkup or have concerns about an old filling, contact Marlborough Dental Centre today. Our NE Calgary team provides natural-looking, long-lasting tooth-coloured fillings to keep your smile healthy and confident all year round.
FAQs
Q: How Long Do Tooth-Coloured Fillings Last?
A: With proper care, composite fillings typically last 5–10 years or longer.
Q: Are Composite Fillings Better Than Silver Fillings?
A: Are composite fillings better than silver fillings?
Q: Is The Filling Procedure Painful?
A: No. We use local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
