What is a composite filling?
A composite filling is a direct repair of tooth tissue lost to decay or damage, using a tooth-coloured composite material. The aim is to replace missing tissue and support chewing. A filling alone does not stop the disease process of decay; regular oral care and check-ups matter for preventing new decay.
Suitability is decided at examination. The amount of lost tissue, the condition of the tooth and chewing load are assessed together. When early decay has not yet formed a cavity (a hole in the tooth), preventive approaches may be considered; once tissue is lost, the need for repair is decided clinically. Whether deep decay needs root canal treatment depends on the condition of the tooth’s inner tissue.
“White fillings” and other materials
In everyday language, “white filling” often means tooth-coloured restorations; it does not refer only to composite. Materials such as Compomer Filling and glass ionomer have different properties and are not the same as composite. Which option suits you is clarified at examination.
How it relates to aesthetic bonding
Attaching composite to the tooth is called bonding. The same material family can be used to repair decay or damage, or to reshape teeth for appearance. This page focuses on repair; for aesthetic use, see Composite Bonding (Direct Composite Veneer).
Use on front and back teeth
Composite may be considered on front and back teeth. Appearance and function are assessed together; it is not a matter of colour alone on front teeth or strength alone on back teeth. Clean, dry working conditions help the material stick to the tooth. Composite is not the only option for every tooth or every loss; for larger losses, inlays/onlays or a Zirconia Crown may also be discussed.
How the procedure goes
Local anaesthetic may be used if needed; damaged or decayed tissue is cleaned. Tooth-coloured composite is placed and may be set with light. Light-curing is not the same as a “laser filling”. The bite is then checked and the surface smoothed.
Appointment length and planning depend on the size of the area to be repaired and the tooth’s treatment needs.
Lifespan, repair and replacement
How long a filling lasts depends on chewing load, oral care, the size of the repaired area and habits. Wear, edge leakage, fracture or new decay may later call for repair or replacement. Automatic replacement is not advised based only on age or colour change; the decision is made at examination.
Sensitivity, care and when to contact us
Temporary hot–cold sensitivity can occur after a filling. Contact your dentist if pain increases or continues, if biting is uncomfortable, or if the filling loosens or breaks.
Regular brushing, cleaning between the teeth and check-ups support the filling and neighbouring teeth. While numb, avoid biting your lip or tongue, do not chew on the numb side, and be careful with hot drinks. Eating and drinking advice is personalised for you.
Teeth Whitening can lighten natural tooth colour; a composite filling does not lighten in the same way. Shade matching after whitening is assessed separately.
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