Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
Tooth-Coloured Fillings in London, Ontario
A filling repairs a tooth that has been damaged by decay or a small fracture. We remove the decayed or broken part, clean the tooth, and rebuild it with a strong, tooth-coloured material that bonds to the enamel. A filling stops a cavity from growing, relieves sensitivity, and restores the tooth’s shape so you can chew normally.
At Lunar Smile Dentistry we use mercury-free, tooth-coloured composite fillings, so your repairs blend in with your natural teeth.
Signs you might need a filling
Small cavities often have no symptoms, which is why regular check-ups matter. When there are signs, they can include:
- sensitivity to sweets, cold or hot drinks
- a sharp twinge when biting down
- a visible hole, dark spot or rough area on a tooth
- food that keeps catching between two teeth
- a broken or missing piece of an old filling
We find most cavities with an exam and digital x-rays, and we can show you the tooth on screen with our intraoral imaging.
Why tooth-coloured fillings?
- They look natural. Composite is matched to the shade of your tooth.
- They bond to the tooth. That supports the remaining tooth and seals the edges.
- Less drilling. Because composite bonds rather than relying on undercuts, we can usually keep more of your healthy tooth.
- Mercury-free.
- Repairable. Small chips in a composite filling can often be patched without replacing it.
Old silver (amalgam) fillings that are intact and problem-free don’t need replacing just because they’re metal. We’ll recommend replacing one only when it’s cracked, leaking, or has decay underneath.
What happens at a filling appointment
- Freezing. We numb the tooth. Many patients find our gentle computer-controlled freezing (STA) more comfortable.
- Removing decay. We remove the decayed or weakened part and shape the space.
- Bonding. We apply a bonding agent so the filling grips the tooth.
- Filling. We place the composite in layers, hardening each with a curing light.
- Shaping and polishing. We shape the filling to fit your bite and polish it smooth.
A typical filling takes 30 to 60 minutes. You can eat once the freezing has worn off.
When a filling isn’t enough
If a cavity is very large, a big filling can weaken the tooth and make it more likely to crack. In that case we may recommend:
- An inlay or onlay: a precise, custom-made partial restoration that replaces a larger part of the tooth, made from a digital scan
- A crown: a cap that covers and protects the whole tooth, often made the same day with CEREC
- A root canal: if the decay has reached the nerve and caused infection
After your filling
- your lip and cheek may stay numb for a couple of hours; avoid hot drinks and chewing until it wears off
- the tooth can be a little sensitive to cold for a few days
- if your bite feels “high” once the freezing wears off, call us; a quick adjustment fixes it
Preventing the next cavity
- brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily
- cut down on sipping sugary or acidic drinks throughout the day
- ask about fluoride treatment and sealants, especially for children
- keep up regular check-ups so small problems stay small
Cost and coverage
Fillings are basic services covered by most dental insurance plans and by the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Some plans pay for tooth-coloured fillings on back teeth only up to the cost of a silver filling; we’ll check your coverage and tell you any difference before we start. Our fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide.
Common questions
Do fillings hurt?
The tooth is frozen, so you should feel pressure and vibration, not pain. Tell us if you feel anything sharp and we’ll add more freezing.
How long do white fillings last?
Commonly many years, depending on the size of the filling, where it is, and your habits. Large fillings on back teeth, and grinding, wear them faster.
Can a cavity go away on its own?
A very early spot in the enamel can sometimes be stopped with fluoride and better home care. Once there’s a real hole, it won’t heal and will keep growing until it’s filled.
Can I get a filling the same day as my check-up?
Often, yes, if there’s time in the schedule. We’re open until 9 pm on weekdays and on Saturdays.
Book a visit in London
Book online or call 226-884-2573. If a tooth is suddenly painful or broken, see emergency dental care. See all restorative dentistry options.
Part of our restorative dentistry services in London, Ontario. See all dental services.