What it is
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-coloured material. They can replace old amalgam fillings, look much more natural, and are often a better choice structurally for the tooth.
There are still times when an amalgam (silver) filling is the most suitable material. Your dentist will explain why.
If a tooth is too weak for a filling, an inlay, onlay or crown is often more suitable.
Who it's for
Anyone with a cavity, a worn or chipped tooth, or an old filling that needs replacing.
What to expect
- Your dentist explains the options and the cost before starting.
- The tooth is usually numbed first. If you feel any discomfort, raise your hand and we'll stop.
- The decay is removed, and the tooth is shaped and filled in the same appointment.