A composite filling restores a tooth affected by decay, a chip, or a small fracture using a tooth-coloured resin that bonds directly to the tooth and is shaded to match your natural enamel. Unlike older silver (amalgam) fillings, composite blends in, so the repair stays discreet even on front teeth.
At Pure White, our dentists in Mirdif use composite fillings for everything from small cavities to reshaping worn or chipped edges. The material bonds to the tooth structure, which means less healthy tooth needs to be removed than with traditional metal fillings, a more conservative approach that many patients prefer.
If a tooth is more heavily damaged or the decay has reached the nerve, your dentist may recommend a different treatment such as root canal therapy or a crown, and will talk you through it at your visit.
Composite is a resin material applied to the tooth in layers, then hardened with a curing light. Because it bonds chemically to enamel and dentine, it supports the remaining tooth rather than just sitting inside it. Your dentist shapes and polishes the final result so it matches the contour and shade of the surrounding teeth.
The whole process is usually completed in a single visit.
For larger cavities or a tooth that has lost significant structure, an inlay, onlay, or crown may be more durable — your dentist will advise.
Both restore a decayed tooth. The difference is mostly appearance, bonding, and how much tooth is preserved.
Examination Your dentist checks the tooth and may take an X-ray to see the extent of the decay or damage.
Preparation The area is numbed for comfort, and the decayed or damaged portion is gently removed.
Placement The composite is applied in layers and hardened with a curing light, then bonded securely to the tooth.
Shaping & Polishing The filling is shaped to match your bite and polished so it blends with the surrounding teeth.
Aftercare You’ll be able to eat and drink shortly after the numbness wears off, with simple care advice to follow.
