10 · Restorative

Fillings

Tooth-coloured fillings that repair a cavity and stop decay in its tracks.

What it is

A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay. The decayed part is removed and the space is filled with a tooth-coloured material that is hardened in place, restoring the tooth’s shape and letting you chew normally again. Caught early, a cavity is a quick, comfortable fix — which is why regular check-ups matter.

Chart of dental filling materials — gold, silver amalgam, composite resin, ceramic and glass ionomer — Filling materials compared. At Align Aesthetic, tooth-coloured composite is used so the repair blends in.

How it goes

1
Numbing
The tooth is gently numbed if needed for comfort.
2
Cleaning
The decay is removed and the tooth is cleaned.
3
Filling
Tooth-coloured material is placed, shaped and hardened.
4
Polish
The bite is checked and the filling polished smooth.

Questions patients ask

Are the fillings tooth-coloured?+

Yes — tooth-coloured composite is used, so the filling blends in rather than showing as metal.

Will it hurt?+

The tooth is numbed if needed, so the procedure is comfortable. Mild sensitivity for a day or two afterwards can happen and settles.

Next · 11

Extraction