Tooth-Colored Fillings
Mercury-free, natural-looking cavity repairs
Natural-Looking Fillings That Blend In
When you need a filling, why settle for silver? Tooth-colored composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing strong, attractive, mercury-free repairs. At BluSky Dental, composite fillings are our standard.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin—a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. The material:
- Matches your natural tooth shade
- Bonds directly to tooth structure
- Contains no mercury or metal
- Provides durable cavity repair
Composite vs. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Traditional Amalgam
Silver/amalgam fillings:
- Silver/gray color (visible)
- Contain mercury
- Require more tooth removal
- Don't bond to teeth
- Expand and contract with temperature
Modern Composite
Tooth-colored fillings:
- Match natural tooth color
- Mercury-free
- Bond to tooth (less removal needed)
- Support remaining tooth structure
- More stable with temperature changes
| Feature | Composite | Amalgam |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Natural | Silver/visible |
| Mercury | No | Yes |
| Tooth removal | Less | More |
| Bonding | Yes | No |
| Typical lifespan | 7-10 years | 10-15 years |
When Are Fillings Needed?
Common Reasons
Cavities (Tooth Decay)
The most common reason—filling removes decay and restores the tooth.
Chipped Teeth
Small chips can be repaired with composite bonding.
Worn Teeth
Surfaces worn by grinding or erosion can be rebuilt.
Replacing Old Fillings
Failing or unsightly old fillings can be replaced.
Small Fractures
Minor cracks or fractures can be filled.
The Filling Procedure
What to Expect
- Anesthesia – Area numbed (for deeper cavities)
- Decay removal – Damaged tooth structure removed
- Preparation – Tooth surface prepared for bonding
- Layering – Composite applied in thin layers
- Curing – Each layer hardened with UV light
- Shaping – Filling shaped to match tooth contours
- Polishing – Smoothed and polished
Duration: 30-60 minutes for most fillings
After Your Filling
- Numbness wears off in 2-4 hours
- Minor sensitivity possible (temporary)
- Eat and drink normally once numbness is gone
- If bite feels "high," let us know for adjustment
Replacing Silver Fillings
Why Replace?
Patients replace amalgam fillings for:
- Aesthetics – Prefer natural appearance
- Health concerns – Want mercury-free option
- Failing fillings – Old fillings cracked or leaking
- Tooth fractures – Amalgam expansion can crack teeth
Is Replacement Safe?
Yes. We use proper protocols when removing amalgam:
- High-volume suction
- Rubber dam isolation
- Proper ventilation
- Careful removal technique
Should You Replace Your Amalgam Fillings?
If your silver fillings are failing, cracked, or have decay underneath: Yes, replace.
If intact and causing no problems: Personal choice.
We can evaluate your existing fillings and advise.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Aesthetic
Virtually invisible—people won't know you have fillings.
Conservative
Bonding allows us to remove less healthy tooth structure.
Strong Bond
Composite bonds directly to tooth, strengthening it.
Mercury-Free
No concerns about mercury exposure.
Versatile
Used for cavities, chips, bonding, and minor repairs.
Repairable
If damaged, composite can often be repaired rather than replaced.
Considerations
Longevity
Composite fillings last 7-10 years on average (amalgam: 10-15 years). However, many composites last much longer with good care.
Size Limitations
Very large fillings may be better served by inlays, onlays, or crowns for greater durability.
Learn about Inlays and Onlays →
Technique Sensitive
Proper placement requires careful moisture control. Our training ensures excellent results.
Staining
Composite can stain over time with coffee, tea, or tobacco. Less so than natural teeth, but possible.
Caring for Your Fillings
Daily Care
- Brush twice daily
- Floss daily
- Use fluoride toothpaste
Longevity Tips
- Avoid chewing ice or hard objects
- Don't use teeth as tools
- Wear a night guard if you grind
- Regular dental checkups
When to Call
Contact us if you notice:
- Filling feels rough or sharp
- Filling cracks or breaks
- Sensitivity that doesn't improve
- Feeling of "high" bite
Cost and Insurance
Filling Cost
Typical range: $150-$500 per filling (varies by size and location)
Insurance Coverage
Most dental plans cover fillings at 80%. Some plans distinguish between front and back teeth. We verify your specific coverage.
Composite vs. Amalgam Cost
Composite fillings may cost slightly more than amalgam, but most patients prefer the benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
For small to medium fillings, yes. Very large fillings may benefit from inlays, onlays, or crowns for added strength.
Average lifespan is 7-10 years, though many last longer. Proper care extends longevity.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia—you won't feel pain. Some sensitivity after is normal and temporary.
Wait until numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek. Once feeling returns, you can eat normally.
Composite can stain slightly over years of coffee, tea, or tobacco exposure. Regular cleanings help maintain appearance.
Restore Your Smile
Natural-Looking Restorations
No one needs to know you have fillings. Our tooth-colored restorations blend beautifully with your natural smile.
Schedule Your Filling Appointment
Whether you need a new filling or want to replace old silver fillings, we're here to help.
Call: (613) 728-1511
Address: 20 – 1620 Scott Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4S7
Email: hollandcrossreception@blusky.dental
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
At BluSky we BEElieve in bringing life to your smile. 🐝