Composite Fillings

Decay is removed and the cavity rebuilt with composite resin bonded directly to the remaining tooth. Unlike amalgam, composite bonds to the tooth rather than being wedged in, so less healthy structure has to be cut away to hold it.

How it's done

1. 01

   Decay removal

   Only the affected tissue is removed, guided by feel and sometimes by a caries-detecting dye.

2. 02

   Bonding

   The cavity is etched and primed so the resin adheres to both enamel and dentine.

3. 03

   Incremental placement

   Composite is placed in layers and cured, limiting shrinkage stress.

4. 04

   Shaping

   Anatomy and contact points are rebuilt, then the bite is checked and polished.

Who it suits

Small to moderate cavities, chipped edges, and replacing old amalgam.

Where it falls short

Very large cavities are better restored with an onlay or crown — a filling that large flexes and eventually splits the tooth.

Recovery

Occasional cold sensitivity for a week or two.