Restore

Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Tooth-coloured fillings are composite fillings matched exactly to the colour of your tooth, so nobody knows they are there. At Edmonton West Dental in NW Edmonton, we remove decay conservatively and restore the tooth to full function, usually in a single appointment. If you think you have a cavity, book a cavity filling appointment with our team. We are accepting new patients.

Tooth-Coloured Fillings

Restorative Dentistry

What a Tooth-Coloured Filling Is and Who Needs One

A filling repairs a tooth damaged by decay. After the decay is removed, the space is filled with a composite resin that is shaped, hardened and polished to blend with the rest of your tooth. Anyone with a cavity, a chipped tooth or a worn area may need a filling. Composite fillings can also replace old metal fillings that are worn or leaking, when your dentist recommends it.

Signs You May Have a Cavity

  • Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods
  • A toothache or pain when you bite
  • A visible hole, pit or dark spot on a tooth
  • Food that keeps catching in one spot
  • A rough edge or a chipped tooth

Many cavities cause no symptoms early on, which is why regular check-ups matter.

How the Treatment Works

  1. 01Exam and X-rays. Your dentist confirms the cavity and explains the plan.
  2. 02Numbing. The area around the tooth is numbed so you are comfortable.
  3. 03Removing decay. Decayed material is removed conservatively, keeping as much healthy tooth as possible.
  4. 04Placing the filling. The composite is placed, shaped to match your tooth and hardened with a special light.
  5. 05Bite check and polish. We check your bite and polish the filling so it feels natural.

Materials and Comfort

Composite resin is tooth-coloured and bonds to the tooth, which lets us preserve more of your natural structure. If you are nervous about dental treatment, tell us. We take our time, and sedation dentistry is available for patients who want extra comfort.

Before Your Visit

  • Bring your insurance card, or both cards if you have two plans.
  • Tell us about any allergies, medications and changes in your health.
  • Eat beforehand if you can, because your mouth will be numb for a while afterward.
  • Let us know if the tooth hurts or is sensitive so we can plan for your comfort.

After Your Treatment

  • Avoid chewing until the numbness wears off to protect your cheek, tongue and lips.
  • Your tooth may be sensitive to hot, cold or pressure for a few days. This usually settles.
  • Brush and floss as normal, and keep up your regular check-ups.
  • If your bite feels high or uneven, call us so we can adjust it.
  • Call us if you have swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding that does not stop.

Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing

Most insurance plans cover a portion of fillings. We check your benefits before treatment and tell you your exact out-of-pocket cost up front. We follow the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, bill major insurance providers directly, and welcome patients covered by NIHB, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP, which covers tooth-coloured fillings), the Alberta Adult Health Benefit and WCB for approved claims.

Why us

Why Choose Edmonton West Dental

  • 01

    Conservative decay removal that protects healthy tooth structure

  • 02

    Natural-looking results and a single-visit approach where possible

  • 03

    Direct insurance billing

  • 04

    Same-day emergency appointments for toothache or a lost filling

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tooth-coloured fillings as strong as silver fillings?

Modern composite fillings are strong and bond to the tooth. Your dentist will recommend the best material for the size and location of your cavity.

Does getting a filling hurt?

The area is numbed, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Some sensitivity afterward is common and usually passes in a few days.

How long does a filling take?

Most fillings are completed in a single appointment. Larger repairs may need more time or a different restoration, which your dentist will explain.

Are fillings covered by insurance?

Most plans cover a portion of fillings. We check your benefits first and let you know your out-of-pocket cost before we begin.

What should I do if a filling falls out?

Call us as soon as possible. Avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean until you are seen. See our Emergency Dentist page for details.

Can old metal fillings be replaced?

Your dentist can assess old fillings and recommend replacement when they are worn, cracked or leaking. We will explain your options first.

More from Restorative Dentistry

Related pages and articles

Ready when you are

Book Your Filling Appointment in Edmonton

Edmonton West Dental is accepting new patients at 21553 Chief Lapotac Blvd NW, #101, Edmonton, AB T7X 3Y3. Call 780-652-1280 or book online. We are open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.