Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Why Choose Composite Fillings?

• Natural appearance: the resin is colour-matched to your teeth for a seamless look.
• Mercury-free: composite is free of mercury, which makes it a popular choice for patients who prefer biocompatible materials.
• Conservative: the resin bonds directly to the tooth, so less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed.
• Versatile: composite fillings can be used on both front and back teeth.

Signs You May Need a Filling

Cavities do not always hurt at first. Common signs include sensitivity to sweets, hot or cold, a visible dark spot or pit, food catching in one place or pain when you bite down. Many cavities are found during a dental checkup and cleaning, long before they cause pain, which is why routine exams are worth keeping.

The Filling Procedure Step by Step

• The area is numbed with local anesthetic so you stay comfortable.
• The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed and the tooth is cleaned and prepared.
• The composite resin is applied in layers, and each layer is hardened with a special curing light.
• The filling is shaped and polished to match the contours of your natural tooth.

The procedure is straightforward and typically completed in one appointment, so you can get back to your day quickly.

Replacing Old Fillings

Fillings do not last forever. Edges can wear, cracks can form and decay can start underneath. Ask your dentist to check older fillings at your next visit. If a tooth has lost too much structure for a filling to hold, we may recommend a crown from our crowns and bridges options. If a damaged tooth causes constant pain, root canal therapy may be needed first.

Fillings or Bonding?

Fillings repair decay and restore strength. Dental bonding uses similar material, but its goal is to improve a chipped, gapped or discoloured tooth for appearance. Your dentist will recommend the right treatment for your tooth.

Why Early Treatment Matters

A small cavity is simpler to treat than a large one. When decay is caught early, a filling can often preserve most of your natural tooth structure. Left alone, decay can spread toward the nerve and may lead to a larger restoration, a crown or a root canal. Regular visits help us spot problems while they are still small.

Looking After Your Fillings

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily and keep up with your checkups and cleanings. If a filling feels high, cracks or comes loose, call us so it can be checked before the tooth is damaged further.

Before Your Visit

• Tell us about any sensitivity or pain so we can find the right tooth quickly.
• Mention any allergies, medications or medical changes.
• Eat beforehand, as you may be numb for a few hours afterward.
• Bring your insurance or CDCP information so we can arrange direct billing.

After Your Treatment

• Avoid chewing on the numb side until the anesthetic wears off to prevent biting your cheek or tongue.
• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly.
• Avoid biting on hard objects such as ice or pen caps.
• Limit coffee, tea and red wine, which can stain over time.
• Call us if your bite feels uneven or sensitivity continues for more than a few days.

Insurance, Direct Billing and CDCP for Fillings

We accept most insurances and offer direct billing, and our team files the paperwork for you. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) can help eligible patients cover services such as fillings. Contact us and we will explain how your coverage may apply before treatment.