This is the application of Composite or tooth coloured filling material (as it is more commonly know, and is made of resin) to the surface of a tooth.

This procedure improves the appearance of teeth in many ways. It is commonly used to repair fractured or chipped teeth, add length to teeth or close gaps and works very well on discoloured, stained or spotted teeth that don’t respond to beaching or whitening.

This is a very durable procedure that can last up to 10 -15 years. It may be repeated at this time as stains may reappear or plaque build-up or resorption of the root from the gum of your tooth.

It is a simple procedure starting with the dentist applying an acidic material to the tooth surface. This takes off a small layer of enamel taking the shine off the surface of the tooth; this action allows the bonding agent to cement to the surface of the tooth. The tooth coloured resin is then applied to the tooth.

The resin is then cured using a light which acts as a catalyst between the bonding agent and the resin material. Once cured, the dentist will polish the tooth and reshape it if necessary.

More important, it has superior biocompatible properties over the regular amalgam / silver restorations, which contain mercury and are inferior aesthetically. The composite filling is not only tooth ‘coloured’, but also during the first few weeks’ releases fluoride to decrease sensitivity of the tooth.