General Dentistry
Composite Fillings
Natural-looking, mercury-free restorations that strengthen your tooth and disappear into your smile.
Composite resin fillings have replaced amalgam (silver) fillings as the standard of care in modern dentistry. They bond directly to tooth structure, require less removal of healthy enamel, and match the colour of your natural teeth so precisely that most people can't tell the difference — including you.
01
The Filling Process
After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, we remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area thoroughly. The composite resin is then applied in thin layers, each cured (hardened) with a blue light. Once the final layer is shaped and polished, your bite is checked and adjusted to ensure perfect alignment. Most fillings are completed in a single 30–60 minute appointment.
02
Composite vs. Amalgam
Unlike silver amalgam, composite resin bonds chemically to your tooth, which means less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed. Composite doesn't expand and contract with temperature as much as metal, reducing the risk of micro-fractures. And of course, composite is mercury-free and virtually invisible in your mouth.
03
Replacing Old Amalgam Fillings
If you have old silver fillings that are cracked, leaking, or simply bothering you aesthetically, we can safely replace them with tooth-coloured composite. We follow strict protocols during removal to minimise any exposure to released vapour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will getting a filling hurt?
No — the area is fully numbed before we begin. You may feel pressure but not pain. Any post-treatment sensitivity typically fades within a few days.
How long do composite fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, composite fillings typically last 7–15 years. Longevity depends on the size of the filling and where it is in the mouth.
Are composite fillings covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover composite fillings, though some may only cover the cost of an amalgam filling for back teeth. We'll review your coverage before treatment.