Composite fillings

Numbing the Area
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the tooth and the surrounding area so you don’t feel pain during the procedure.

At Chatham Dental, we use heated anaesthetics. Studies have shown that warming the anaesthetic solution to body temperature or slightly higher can significantly reduce pain felt during a treatment.

1. Rubber dam placement:
A rubber dam is a thin, flexible sheet used to isolate one or more teeth from the rest of your mouth during treatment. It keeps the area dry and free from saliva for a cleaner, more controlled procedure.

A small, comfortable clamp is placed around the tooth being treated to anchor the rubber dam. You may feel light pressure. The dam is stretched over the clamp and placed on a frame around your mouth. You can choose to use a bite block, which you can rest your jaw on so you don’t have to hold your mouth open.

You can breathe normally through your nose, and while speaking is limited, you can still communicate with the dental team using hand signals or short phrases. It may feel a bit odd at first, like something is resting on your lips or cheeks, but most patients adjust quickly – and nearly all of our patients prefer treatment with the rubber dam on.

The rubber dam keeps your tooth dry and clean, which helps materials bond properly and prevents bacteria from entering the treatment area. It also protects your tongue and cheeks from instruments, and stops you from swallowing water or debris.

2. Decay Removal
The dentist uses a drill to remove the decayed part of the tooth.

3. Cleaning
The cavity is cleaned to remove bacteria and debris before the filling is placed.
4. Filling Placement
The dentist fills the cavity with a tooth-coloured composite material, shaping it to match your bite. At Chatham Dental, we use heated composite as studies indicate that heating can increase the micro hardness and strength of the composite, making it more resistant to wear and tear.

5. Hardening the Filling
A special light is used to set the material.

6. The dam and clamp are removed gently.

7. Bite Check & Polishing
The dentist checks your bite and polishes the filling for a smooth finish.

1. Numbness for a Few Hours
Your mouth may stay numb for 1–3 hours after the appointment.

2. Mild Sensitivity or Soreness
It’s common to feel some sensitivity to pressure, cold, or heat for a few days. This should improve over time.

3. Eating & Drinking
You may be advised to wait until the numbness wears off before eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.

Most composite fillings last 7–12 years depending on the size and location. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups help extend their lifespan.

Yes. Composite materials are widely used, tooth-coloured, and mercury-free. They bond securely to the tooth and are suitable for most patients.

No. Composite fillings are matched to your natural tooth colour and blend in seamlessly, unlike silver amalgam fillings.

The procedure is pain-free thanks to local anaesthetic. You may feel mild sensitivity afterward, which usually settles within a few days.

It’s uncommon, but fillings can become loose if the tooth is heavily damaged or if decay develops again. We’ll advise you on how to protect your restoration.

You should wait until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue. After that, you can eat normally.

Small to medium cavities are ideal for composite. For larger areas, we may recommend an onlay or crown for better strength.