Cavities are one of the most common dental problems in Australia. Around 1 in 3 adults aged 15 and over have at least one tooth with untreated dental decay. The good news? Treating a cavity today is nothing like it used to be. Gone are the days when a filling meant a mouthful of silver metal. Modern tooth-coloured composite fillings have become the go-to choice for dentists and patients alike, and for good reason.
If you live in Greensborough or the surrounding Melbourne suburbs and you’ve been told you have a cavity, or you’ve been wondering about replacing old silver fillings, this guide covers everything you need to know. What composite fillings are, how the procedure works, how long they last, and how to take care of them once they’re in place.
What Are Composite Fillings?
A composite filling is a tooth-coloured restoration made from a mixture of plastic resin and finely ground glass or quartz particles. Dentists use them to repair cavities, minor chips, and small surface cracks. The key difference from older amalgam fillings is that composite resin is matched closely to the shade of your natural tooth, so the restoration blends right in. Most people can’t tell a composite filling is even there.
Traditional amalgam fillings, often called silver or metal fillings, have been used in dentistry for well over a century. They are made from a combination of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. While they were the standard option for decades, patient preferences have shifted significantly. Given increasing aesthetic demands and advancements in composite resin formulations, the use of composite restorations continues to rise.
Why G Dental Uses Composite Over Amalgam
At G Dental in Greensborough, composite resin is the preferred material for dental restorations. Here is a quick look at how the two materials compare:
| Feature | Composite Resin | Amalgam (Silver) |
| Appearance | Tooth-coloured, virtually invisible | Dark silver/grey, visible |
| Mercury content | None | Contains mercury |
| Tooth removal required | Minimal (bonds directly) | More tooth structure removed |
| Suitable for front teeth | Yes | Generally no |
| Suitable for back teeth | Yes (small to medium cavities) | Yes |
| Bonding method | Bonds chemically to the tooth | Mechanical retention only |
| Aesthetic result | Natural | Noticeable |
The key advantages of composite over amalgam include:
- No mercury. Composite resin contains no metals, making it a popular choice for patients who want to avoid any exposure to mercury-containing materials.
- Less drilling. Because composite bonds directly to the tooth structure, the dentist can remove less of the natural tooth during preparation. This is sometimes called a “tooth-conserving” approach.
- Works on any tooth. Composite can be used on both front and back teeth, making it a versatile option across different parts of the mouth.
- Looks natural. The material is shade-matched to your existing tooth colour, so the result is seamless.
- Immediate hardening. A special curing light sets the composite in place within seconds, so the filling is fully hardened before you leave the chair.
At G Dental, high-quality composite resin is used to ensure each restoration is precise, well-fitting, and long-lasting. The team takes the time to match the shade carefully so the result looks as natural as possible.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Composite Filling at G Dental
A lot of people feel nervous about dental procedures, especially if they have not had a filling before. Here is exactly what happens during a composite filling appointment at G Dental in Greensborough, so you know what to expect:
- Assessment. The dentist examines the tooth, usually with the help of X-rays, to confirm the extent of the decay and determine whether a filling is the right course of treatment.
- Local anaesthetic. If needed, the area around the tooth is numbed with a local anaesthetic injection. Most patients feel no more than a brief pinch, and the area becomes numb within a few minutes.
- Removing decay. Using a small dental drill or air abrasion tool, the dentist carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth. Only the damaged area is targeted, so as much of the natural tooth as possible is preserved.
- Cleaning and preparing the cavity. The cavity is cleaned, and a conditioning agent is applied to help the composite bond securely to the tooth surface.
- Applying the composite resin in layers. The resin is placed in thin layers rather than all at once. This helps ensure a strong, well-adapted result with minimal shrinkage.
- Curing with a special light. After each layer is placed, a handheld curing light is used to harden the resin. This only takes a few seconds per layer.
- Shaping and polishing. Once the filling is fully built up, the dentist shapes it to match the contours of your tooth and checks your bite to make sure everything feels comfortable. The surface is then polished for a smooth, natural finish.
The whole appointment typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes for a single tooth. It is comfortable, quick, and most patients are pleasantly surprised by how easy the process is.
How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask, and it deserves an honest answer. With good care, composite fillings typically last 7 to 10 years or more. Dental check ups and good oral hygiene can extend their lifespan.
That said, how long a filling lasts depends on several factors:
| Factor | Effect on Longevity |
| Location of the filling | Back teeth (molars) are under more chewing pressure and may wear faster |
| Size of the cavity | Larger fillings have a slightly shorter lifespan than smaller ones |
| Oral hygiene habits | Good brushing and flossing reduce decay around the filling edges |
| Diet | Frequent sugar or acid consumption can weaken the filling margins |
| Teeth grinding (bruxism) | Places excessive force on fillings and shortens their life |
| Regular dental check-ups | Allows your dentist to spot any early signs of wear or failure |
How does this compare to amalgam?
Amalgam restorations have shown median survival times exceeding 16 years in some studies, compared to around 11 years for composite restorations. However, it is important to keep this in context. The gap in durability has narrowed considerably, and modern composite materials are stronger and more wear-resistant than earlier generations. When used appropriately, for example, in small to medium restorations or areas with moderate biting forces, composite fillings can perform very well for many years.
Front-tooth composites may sometimes need replacement sooner, not because they have failed structurally, but because they can gradually take on a slight discolouration from coffee, tea, or red wine over the years. Your dentist at G Dental in Melbourne will monitor all fillings at your regular check-up appointments and let you know if any signs of wear need attention.
Can You Replace Old Silver Fillings with Composite?
Yes, and many Greensborough patients come to G Dental asking exactly this. Some people want to replace their old amalgam fillings for cosmetic reasons, preferring the look of tooth-coloured restorations. Others simply want to move away from mercury-containing materials, even if their existing fillings are still functional.
The process is similar to placing a new filling. The old amalgam is carefully removed, the tooth is cleaned, and the composite resin is bonded in its place. The result is a restoration that looks completely natural.
It is worth noting that not every old filling needs to be replaced. If your current amalgam fillings are in good condition and not causing any problems, your dentist may recommend leaving them in place and monitoring them at each check-up. Replacing fillings unnecessarily removes some healthy tooth structure, so it is always a case-by-case decision. At G Dental, the team will assess the condition of your existing restorations, discuss your preferences, and help you understand whether replacing them makes sense for your situation. There is no pressure either way.
Caring for Your Composite Fillings
Composite fillings do not require any complicated aftercare, but a few simple habits will help them last as long as possible.
In the first 24 hours after your appointment, avoid very hard foods like crusty bread, nuts, or hard lollies until any anaesthetic has worn off completely and you can feel your bite properly. Be mindful of hot and cold drinks if you have any temporary sensitivity.
For long-term care, brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This protects not just the filling, but the tooth structure around it. Limit how frequently you consume sugary or acidic foods and drinks. If you grind your teeth at night, mention it to your dentist. A custom mouthguard can protect both your fillings and your natural teeth from unnecessary wear. Attend six-monthly check-up appointments too. At each visit, your dentist will assess the condition of your composite fillings and let you know if anything needs attention before it becomes a bigger issue.
Investing in preventive care is the most effective way to make your fillings last and to avoid needing more involved treatment down the track. For more on how to protect your teeth between visits, see G Dental’s Preventive Care page.
Composite vs Amalgam: Quick Comparison Summary
| Feature | Composite Resin | Amalgam |
| Appearance | Tooth-coloured | Silver/grey |
| Mercury-free | Yes | No |
| Average lifespan | 7–10+ years | 10–16+ years |
| Tooth structure removal | Less | More |
| Bonding | Chemical bond to the tooth | Mechanical |
| Best suited for | All teeth, small to medium cavities | Large posterior restorations |
| Aesthetic result | Excellent | Poor |
Book a Check-Up at G Dental in Greensborough
If you think you might have a cavity, or you have been putting off dealing with a sensitive tooth, now is a good time to get it sorted. Small problems are much easier and less costly to treat than large ones. And if you have old silver fillings you would like to discuss replacing, the team at G Dental is happy to walk you through your options.
G Dental is located in Greensborough and welcomes patients from across the Melbourne northern suburbs. Book your check-up online or call the clinic to speak with a friendly member of the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q 1: Do composite fillings hurt?
A: Not usually. Most fillings are painless. G Dental uses local anaesthetic if needed and takes a gentle approach to ensure you are comfortable throughout the process. You may feel a little pressure during the procedure, but significant pain is not a normal part of a modern filling appointment.
Q 2: Are composite fillings covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
A: If a patient receives help with dental costs, it is often through private extras cover, not Medicare. Medicare does not cover most routine dental services for adults. However, private health insurance with dental extras typically covers general dental services, including fillings, up to your annual policy limit. Eligible children may also access support through the Child Dental Benefits Schedule. Check your policy or speak to the G Dental team for guidance on what your cover includes.
Q 3: How long after a filling can I eat?
A: Composite fillings harden immediately under a curing light, so you can eat and drink as soon as the numbness wears off. It is a good idea to avoid very hard or sticky foods for the rest of the day as a precaution, particularly while you are still numb and cannot fully feel your bite.
Q 4: Is composite resin safe?
A: Yes. While some composite resins contain BPA-derived compounds, studies show that any exposure is minimal and is considered safe by health authorities. The levels are far below what could potentially cause harm, and the material has been widely approved in dentistry for decades. Composite resin is also registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), meaning it meets Australian safety and quality standards.
Q 5: Can composite fillings stain or discolour?
A: Over time, composite resin can absorb some pigment from coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. Regular cleaning and good hygiene keep them looking their best. If cosmetic wear becomes noticeable, the surface can often be polished at your regular check-up, or the filling replaced if needed.
