General Information

Replacing old fillings with tooth coloured fillings results in a more attractive smile.

1) What are tooth colored fillings?
Tooth colored fillings are fillings comprised of a composite resin which is offered in colors that match the tooth surface.

2) Who is a candidate for tooth colored fillings?
Anyone in need of a filling due to decay or trauma is a candidate for tooth colored fillings.

3) What are tooth colored fillings useful for?
While there most common use is for the treatment of a decayed tooth or replacement of a cracked, loose, or missing filling, tooth colored fillings are also being chosen more and more often to replace existing metal fillings to eliminate the dark appearance of metal fillings and achieve a more natural, attractive smile.

4) How is the procedure performed?
After administering a local anesthetic, your dentist will remove the decayed portions of your tooth using a drills or laser. A chemical is applied to the exposed area to open the pores of the tooth material in order to ensure a strong bond with the tooth colored filling material. A bonding layer is applied, followed by successive thin layers of the composite resin. After each layer, a special light is applied to harden and cure the material quickly. After the filling hardens, your dentist will use a mildly abrasive paper to smooth rough edges and ensure the filling works with your bite. Finally, the filling is polished.

5) What is the recovery like?
Recovery is the same as for traditional, amalgam fillings. There may be some discomfort following the procedure, which can be addressed with aspirin or other over-the-counter pain medications.

6) Results
Tooth colored fillings offer several advantages. In addition to looking more natural and blending wit surrounding teeth, these fillings contain no potentially harmful metals and unlike metal fillings, the composite material can actually improve the strength and integrity of the tooth. Tooth colored fillings will not darken over time like metal fillings can.

7) Are tooth colored fillings approved for use in the USA?
Commonly known as composite resin fillings, tooth colored fillings are approved for use in U.S. dental procedures.

8) Are tooth colored fillings covered by insurance companies?
Although newer than traditional amalgam fillings, many dental plans cover most, if not all, the cost of the newer composite fillings.

9) Cost
Tooth colored fillings usually cost between $150 and $200 per tooth.