A composite restoration is a tooth colored restoration that is intended to fill cavities. It can also be used to “bond” small tooth fractures of front teeth. Fillings are generally completed under local anesthetic. It is a very short procedure that normally takes about about 30 minutes.
Are there alternative options to white fillings?
Alternative options to tooth colored restorations include amalgam (silver filling). This is a very outdated technology that has been abandoned by many dental offices for a variety of reasons. Most patients would prefer a tooth colored restoration to a gaudy metal filling. Secondly, composite can bond to the tooth. This allows us to be more conservative and preserve more of your natural tooth. Other concerns include the mercury content of amalgam.