Treatment at a Glance
Treatment Type
Anaesthetic
Pre-Treatment Care
Recovery Time
What are Tooth Coloured Fillings?
Tooth coloured fillings, or composite fillings, are used to repair teeth damaged by decay, cracks, or small breaks and help improve the appearance without severely damaging the teeth.
They are placed over surfaces of the teeth to change the shape and close unwanted spaces between the teeth. The composite is made from materials that match the natural colour of your teeth, so they look almost invisible.
Tooth Coloured Fillings FAQ
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings can last 5-10 years or more, depending on your oral hygiene, diet, size and location of the filling.
Do composite fillings hurt?
The procedure is usually painless when local anaesthetic is used. Although you may feel mild sensitivity after the filling has been placed, which usually settles within a few days.
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are safe and suitable for most adults and children.
Can composite fillings stain?
Just like your natural teeth, composite fillings can stain over time especially with tea, coffee, red wine and smoking.
Can I eat after a composite filling?
Yes, but it is advised that you wait until numbess has worn off and you avoid eating hard foods for the first 24-48 hours.
How do I care for composite fillings?
Make sure to brush twice daily, floss regularly and attend regular dental check-ups.
Can old metal fillings be replaced with composite fillings?
Yes, many patients choose to replace silver fillings with tooth-coloured ones for cosmetic reasons.
The Treatment Process
Examination
The dentist will firstly check your tooth for decay or damage. X-rays may be taken if needed, before confirming that a composite filling is suitable.
Numbing The Tooth
Local anaesthetic will then be administered, as this is often used to prevent pain. Although, small fillings sometimes don’t need anaesthetic
Removing Decay
The dentist will then remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth and will clean the area to remove any bacteria and debris.
Preparing The Tooth
The surface of the tooth is then treated with a special gel or liquid which helps the composite material to bond strongly to the tooth.
Placing The Filling
The tooth-coloured material is placed in layers onto the tooth and each layer is hardened using a special curing light.
Shaping & Polishing
The dentist will then shape the filling to match your natural tooth, before polishing the tooth so it feels smooth and comfortable.
Bite Check
You’ll be asked to bite down on special paper to check your bite is aligned. If not, the dentist will adjust the filling if needed so your bite feels normal.
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Contact Information
5 Maidenplain Place, Aberuthven, Perthshire, PH3 1EL
8:30am to 5pm | Mon – Fri
01764 66 44 46