What are tooth-coloured fillings?
A filling repairs a tooth that has been damaged by decay. The decayed part is removed and the space is filled with composite resin, a tooth-coloured material that blends in with the rest of your tooth.
Composite fillings bond to the tooth, so we can often keep more healthy tooth than with older metal amalgam. They are also used to repair small chips.
You may need a filling if
- A check-up or X-ray has found a cavity.
- A tooth is sensitive to hot, cold or sweet foods.
- You can see or feel a hole or rough edge on a tooth.
- An old filling has worn, chipped or come loose.
What to expect, step by step
Examination
We find and assess the decay, often with an X-ray.
Numbing and cleaning
The area is numbed if needed, then the decay is carefully removed.
Placing the filling
The composite is shaped in layers and hardened with a light.
Finishing
We polish the filling and check your bite feels natural.
White or metal fillings?
Composite (white)
Matches the tooth, bonds to it and needs less removal of healthy tooth.
Amalgam (metal)
The older material. We use tooth-coloured composite as standard at KBM Dental.
Appointments are at KBM Dental in Rathfarnham, Dublin 14. Patients also visit from Rathgar, Rathmines, Donnybrook and the wider South Dublin area. Treatment starts with a consultation, so the plan and the cost are clear before you decide.
Enquire about Fillings