Composite fillings offer a natural-looking alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. Made from a tooth-coloured resin reinforced with glass particles, these restorations are carefully shade-matched to blend invisibly with your natural teeth.
Unlike amalgam fillings, composite resin bonds directly to your tooth structure. This means less drilling and more of your healthy tooth is preserved. The filling is applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a specialised LED light, creating a strong and durable restoration.
At our 106 Harley Street practice, we use the latest nano-hybrid composite materials for superior strength and wear resistance. The entire procedure is completed in a single appointment, typically taking 30-45 minutes depending on the size and location of the cavity. For larger areas of decay, porcelain inlays or onlays may provide a more durable long-term solution.
We offer flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your treatment.
We use premium nano-hybrid composite resins that offer superior strength, wear resistance, and colour stability compared to standard materials. These advanced composites are specifically designed for durability in high-pressure areas while maintaining a natural appearance that resists staining.
Our dentists take time to carefully select the perfect shade for your filling using professional colour guides. We layer different composite shades to replicate the natural translucency of your teeth, ensuring your restoration is virtually invisible to others.
Because composite bonds directly to tooth structure, we remove only the decayed portion of your tooth. This conservative approach preserves maximum healthy tooth structure, keeping your teeth stronger for longer and reducing the likelihood of future complications.
With good oral hygiene, composite fillings typically last 5-10 years. Longevity depends on factors including filling size, location in the mouth, your bite forces, and how well you care for your teeth. Regular check-ups allow us to monitor your fillings and address any wear before problems develop.
Modern composite materials have improved dramatically and are suitable for most cavities. While amalgam may still be preferred for very large restorations in back teeth, today’s nano-hybrid composites offer excellent strength and durability for the majority of fillings while preserving more natural tooth structure.
Composite can absorb some staining from tea, coffee, red wine, and tobacco over time, though modern materials are more stain-resistant than older versions. Good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning help maintain appearance. If staining occurs, the filling surface can often be polished to restore its original shade.
Some patients experience mild sensitivity to hot and cold for a few days to weeks after treatment. This is normal and typically resolves on its own. If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks or worsens, contact us as the filling may need adjustment. Using sensitive toothpaste can help during the healing period.
Yes, many patients choose to replace visible amalgam fillings for cosmetic reasons. We assess each filling individually to determine whether replacement is appropriate. If a silver filling is intact and functioning well, we may recommend monitoring rather than immediate replacement, as removing healthy restorations unnecessarily can weaken the tooth.