Tooth-Coloured Fillings: A Natural-Looking Way to Repair Your Smile

emmanuelr131
Aug 28
2 min read

Why fillings are sometimes needed

Tooth decay, cracks, or daily wear can damage your teeth. Left untreated, these issues often lead to pain, infection, and more complex treatment such as root canals or crowns.

A filling restores the tooth’s structure and strength — stopping decay from spreading and keeping your smile healthy.

What are tooth-coloured fillings?

At Greenbank Family Dental, we use composite resin fillings — designed to match the natural shade of your teeth.

Blends seamlessly with your smile (no silver “metal mouth”).
Safe and durable, bonding directly to the tooth.
Suitable for both front and back teeth.

These modern fillings let you restore your tooth without compromising appearance.

The benefits of modern fillings

Natural look — almost invisible in the mouth.
Gentle preparation — less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed compared to older silver (amalgam) fillings.
Strong and durable — designed to withstand everyday chewing.
Versatile — can repair decay, chips, cracks, or worn edges.

What happens during a filling appointment

Your comfort is our priority. Here’s what you can expect:

Numbing (if needed) — gentle local anaesthetic so you remain comfortable.
Removal of decay or weak enamel — cleaning out the damaged area.
Tooth preparation — bonding surface prepared for strength.
Resin placement — composite material is layered in and shaped.
Curing — a special light hardens the resin instantly.
Polish and finish — the tooth is smoothed to look and feel natural.

The result: a strong, natural-looking repair that blends with your smile.

Costs & rebates

Typical range: $150–$300, depending on size and surfaces.
ADA item codes:
- 521–525: White fillings (front teeth)
- 531–535: White fillings (back teeth)
- 411/577: Nerve protection (if needed)
Rebates:
- Covered by most health funds
- Covered under CDBS for eligible children
- Accepted under DVA

FAQ

How long do tooth-coloured fillings last?

With good care, they usually last 7–10 years, sometimes longer.

Do they stain or break?

They resist normal staining, though habits like smoking or heavy coffee/tea drinking may affect colour over time.

Is it painful to get a filling?

No — we use gentle numbing to keep the process comfortable.

Can kids get tooth-coloured fillings?

Yes. White fillings are often ideal for children because they look natural and preserve more of the tooth.

Are old silver fillings safe?

Amalgam fillings are still considered safe, but many patients prefer to replace them for aesthetic reasons. We can discuss options if you’d like yours reviewed.

Our promise at GFD

At Greenbank Family Dental, we combine gentle treatment, modern materials, and a prevention-first philosophy. Our dentists explain every step, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable while restoring your smile.