Natural-Looking Dental Restorations at Silver 7 Dental

A cavity, chipped tooth, or worn filling does not always need to leave a noticeable mark on your smile. At Silver 7 Dental
in Kanata, we provide tooth-coloured composite fillings designed to restore damaged teeth while blending naturally
with your smile.

Composite resin can be carefully matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making it an excellent option for restoring
both front and back teeth.

Whether you need treatment for a new cavity or want to replace an old or damaged filling, our dental team will assess
your tooth and recommend an appropriate treatment based on its condition, location, and the amount of remaining
healthy tooth structure.

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What Is a Composite Filling?

A composite filling, sometimes called a tooth-coloured filling or white filling, is made from a resin-based restorative
material that bonds directly to the tooth.

Composite restorations can be used to repair teeth affected by:

• Tooth decay and cavities

• Small chips or fractures

• Worn tooth structure

• Damaged or leaking existing fillings

• Minor defects in the shape or appearance of a tooth

Because composite material is available in different shades, your dentist can select a colour that closely matches your
natural tooth.

Benefits of Tooth-Coloured Fillings

• Natural appearance: The material can closely match the colour of your teeth.

• Strong bonding: Composite resin bonds directly to the prepared tooth.

• Conservative treatment: In many situations, less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed compared with some
traditional restorative techniques.

• Versatility: Composite can be used on many front and back teeth.

• Repairability: Depending on the condition of the restoration, some composite fillings may be repaired rather than
completely replaced.

What Happens During a Composite Filling?

Your dentist will first examine the tooth and determine the extent of the decay or damage. Dental X-rays may be
recommended when necessary.

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The tooth is usually numbed with local anesthetic for your comfort. The damaged or decayed tooth structure is carefully
removed and the tooth is prepared for restoration.

The composite material is then placed in layers, shaped and hardened using a curing light. Finally, your dentist adjusts
the bite and polishes the restoration to create a smooth, natural-looking result.

Replacing Old or Damaged Fillings

Dental fillings do not necessarily last forever. Over time, an existing filling may become worn, chipped, fractured or
develop a gap around its edges.

At Silver 7 Dental, we can evaluate existing restorations and determine whether they should be monitored, repaired or
replaced.

If you have an older silver-coloured filling and are considering replacing it with a tooth-coloured restoration for cosmetic
reasons, we can also discuss whether replacement is appropriate for your tooth. Healthy, functional fillings do not
always need to be replaced simply because of their colour.

Composite Fillings for Front Teeth

Composite resin is particularly useful in visible areas of the smile because it can be shaped and shade-matched to the
surrounding tooth.

• Chipped front teeth

• Small fractures

• Areas of tooth decay

• Worn edges

• Minor irregularities in tooth shape

For more extensive cosmetic changes, other treatments such as composite bonding or veneers may be considered.

How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?

The lifespan of a composite filling varies from patient to patient. Its longevity depends on factors such as the size and
location of the restoration, biting forces, oral hygiene, diet, grinding or clenching habits, and regular dental care.
Routine dental examinations allow your dentist to monitor your fillings and identify signs of wear or damage.

Caring for Your Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Good oral hygiene can help maintain both your natural teeth and restorations. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste,
clean between your teeth regularly, attend routine dental examinations and hygiene appointments, and avoid frequently
chewing very hard objects such as ice.

If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist may recommend additional protection when appropriate.