Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings are dental restorations designed to be inconspicuous and natural in appearance. They blend well with the teeth and appear more natural than amalgam fillings, which are darker and more easily seen by other people.

Composite fillings are made from a special type of medical-grade resin that chemically bonds to the teeth. They can be used to fill in decayed areas of the teeth, as well as to help repair chipped or broken teeth. Most dentists use composite restorations to treat the teeth closest to the front of the mouth, as they are more noticeable when patients smile.

However, advancements in dental technology and the composition of composite fillings have made it possible to also use tooth-colored fillings on molars, which receive more wear than other teeth.

Dental sealants are very thin coatings used to fill in deep grooves and pits in teeth that can harbour bacteria.

Sealants are applied to healthy chewing surfaces of the teeth to prevent decay and cavities – especially among children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, tooth decay affects more than half of children ages 6 – 8, and even older children and teens.

By applying sealants, families can prevent decay and save on the costs associated with filling cavities. If you plan to get dental sealants in, the CDC recommends doing so shortly after the molars have erupted from the gums – usually beginning around age 6.