Short answer
A tooth-coloured (composite) filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay or a small break. It is made of a resin that is matched to your tooth shade and hardened with a light. How long a filling lasts depends on its size and position, your habits and how well you care for it.
What is a tooth-coloured filling?
A tooth-coloured filling is made of a composite resin. The dentist chooses a shade that matches your tooth. It bonds to the tooth and fills the space where decay was removed or a small chip occurred.
When is a filling needed?
- A cavity from tooth decay.
- A small crack or chip.
- A worn tooth.
- A filling that has worn out or broken and needs to be replaced.
How is a filling placed?
- The tooth and the area around it are numbed.
- The decayed or damaged part is removed.
- The tooth is cleaned and prepared.
- The resin is placed in layers and hardened with a special light.
- The filling is shaped and polished, and your bite is checked.
Aftercare
- Do not chew until the numbness wears off, so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
- Some sensitivity to hot or cold is common for a short time.
- Brush and clean between your teeth as usual.
Call the clinic if your bite feels high, the sensitivity gets worse or does not settle, or the filling feels rough or has a sharp edge.
How long do fillings last?
There is no single answer. A filling can last for years, but it can wear, chip or leak at the edges. Large fillings, fillings on back teeth, and habits like teeth grinding can shorten their life. Regular check-ups let your dentist watch for wear.
Filling or crown?
If a tooth is badly damaged, a filling may not be enough, and a crown may be recommended. Your dentist will explain why.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a composite filling?
- A tooth-coloured filling made of resin that is bonded to the tooth and hardened with a light.
- How long does a filling last?
- It varies. Size, position, habits and care all matter. Your dentist can check yours at each visit.
- Will it match my tooth?
- The dentist chooses a shade to blend with your tooth.
- Does placing a filling hurt?
- The area is numbed, so you should not feel pain. You may feel pressure.
- When is a crown better than a filling?
- When much of the tooth is damaged or weak, a crown may protect it better.
Next step
To talk about a filling, read about the clinic's tooth-coloured filling service or book a visit. Wetaskiwin Smiles is at 3600 56 St Unit 101, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3T5. Call (780) 396-4040 or request an appointment online.