Cosmetic & Regular Dental Fillings

About Cosmetic & Regular Dental Fillings

Cosmetic dental fillings, also called tooth-coloured or white fillings, are restorations made from composite resin that closely matches the natural shade of your teeth. They are bonded directly to the prepared tooth, providing structural support while remaining virtually invisible. This makes composite fillings particularly suitable for front teeth, smile-line cavities, and patients who prefer aesthetic results with minimal change to natural tooth appearance.

Compared with traditional amalgam, cosmetic fillings offer a more conservative tooth filling treatment because the bonding mechanism allows preservation of healthy enamel. The composite also distributes biting forces across the tooth, reducing the risk of further fracture. With proper oral hygiene and routine reviews, modern composite fillings can last several years, although, like all restorations, they may require replacement or repair over time.

Regular dental fillings made from amalgam, a combination of silver, tin, copper, and mercury, have been used for decades and remain durable for large posterior cavities, particularly in molars subjected to heavy chewing forces. While their appearance is less aesthetic, their longevity and resistance to wear are well established. Dr. Shweta discusses both options during cavity filling treatment so you can make an informed choice.

Tooth decay treatment is most effective when started early. Regular dental check-ups every six months allow detection of small cavities before they reach the nerve, keeping treatment simple and conservative. When decay reaches deeper structures, root canal therapy or crowns may be necessary. Encouraging children and adults to brush twice daily, floss, and reduce sugary snacks remains the foundation of preventing repeat fillings.

What to expect

• Examination and radiographs help determine the size and depth of decay.
• The tooth is numbed with local anaesthesia before decay is gently removed.
• The cavity is cleaned and filled with composite or amalgam in incremental layers as needed.
• Bite is checked and the filling polished for comfort and natural appearance.
• Aftercare advice is provided, including brushing technique and dietary tips.

Recovery

• You can usually eat soon after the anaesthetic wears off, typically within two hours.
• Mild sensitivity to cold or pressure may last a few days and then settle.
• Avoid very hard or sticky foods on a newly placed filling for the first 24 hours.
• Persistent pain after a week should be reviewed to rule out deeper involvement.