Composite Tooth Fillings: A Natural-Looking Way to Fix Cavities
Cavities are common dental issues, but fortunately, they’re easy to treat.
Composite tooth filling is one of the most widely used methods for treating cavities today.
What Is a Composite Filling?
When Is It Needed?
A composite filling is a type of dental material used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay (a cavity) or minor fractures.
Unlike the old silver-colored (amalgam) fillings, composite fillings are made to match the natural color of your teeth, so they blend in and are almost invisible when you smile.
Composite fillings are commonly used to:
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Fill small to medium-sized cavities
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Repair chipped or worn-down teeth
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Replace old or broken fillings
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Close small gaps between teeth
Your dentist may recommend a composite filling if you have a cavity that hasn’t reached the tooth’s nerve, or if you’re looking for a more natural-looking option.
What Happens During the Procedure?
How Long Do They Last?
Getting a composite filling is quick and painless. Here’s what you can expect:
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The area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic.
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The decayed or damaged part of the tooth is carefully removed.
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The space is cleaned and prepared for the filling.
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The tooth-colored composite resin is applied in layers and shaped to match your natural tooth.
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A special light is used to harden each layer.
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The filling is polished to smooth out any rough edges and make it look just like the rest of your tooth.
The whole process typically takes less than an hour.
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, composite fillings can last 5 to 10 years or even longer.
Avoiding hard snacks (like ice or hard candy) and brushing twice a day helps extend their life.
Taking Care of Your Tooth Filling
Fluoride treatment is one of the simplest ways to take care of your smile—and it only takes a few minutes during your regular checkup. Whether you’re protecting healthy teeth or trying to prevent future issues, it’s a small step that goes a long way.