More patients nowadays prefer composite over traditional amalgam fillings because they blend naturally with your teeth, use safer materials, and often require less drilling. Dental composite fillings generally last 5 to 10 years, and with good oral care, sometimes even longer.
What Is a Dental Composite?
A dental composite is a tooth-colored restorative material made from a blend of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles. It’s used to fill cavities or repair broken, chipped, or worn teeth. Thanks to its natural look and adaptability, composite fillings have become the preferred choice for many patients over traditional amalgam fillings.
Where Are Dental Composite Commonly Used?
Dental composite are ideal for both front and back teeth. They’re especially popular for front teeth where appearance matters most. Dentists also use them for reshaping teeth, closing small gaps, or even as a cosmetic alternative to veneers.
The Material Used for Tooth Filling
The composite material bonds directly to the tooth structure, providing strong support. It can be carefully shaded to match the exact color of your tooth, making it nearly invisible once placed. Unlike amalgam, it doesn’t contain mercury, and it can preserve more of the natural tooth during preparation.
Composite Filling vs. Amalgam Filling
| Feature | Composite Filling | Amalgam Filling |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Appearance and Aesthetics | Tooth-colored and blends naturally with surrounding teeth - ideal for visible areas like front teeth. | Typically silver in color and can sometimes appear gray or black to the naked eye, visibly contrasts with natural tooth enamel. |
| Material Composition | Made of resin and glass particles - metal-free and mercury-free. | Made from a mixture of metals including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. |
| Tooth Structure Preservation | Bonds directly to the tooth - allows more of the healthy tooth to be preserved. | Requires more drilling to mechanically lock into place - more natural tooth is removed. |
| Strength and Usage | Modern composites are durable and can handle both front and back teeth. | Highly durable with a long track record - especially for molars and high-chewing areas. |
| Thermal Sensitivity | Less reactive to hot and cold - reduces risk of tooth fractures or long-term sensitivity. | Expands and contracts with temperature changes - may cause micro-cracks or discomfort over time. |
Benefits of Dental Composite Fillings
Natural Appearance
One of the most popular reasons patients choose dental composite is how closely they resemble natural teeth. The resin material used in dental composite fillings can be color-matched to the exact shade of your surrounding tooth, making it virtually invisible. This makes it ideal for visible areas, especially when you’re getting a filling for front teeth.
Strong and Durable
Dental composite may have started out weaker than their metal counterparts, but modern advancements in dental composite technology have significantly improved their strength. When placed correctly by an experienced dentist, these fillings can last several years and hold up well under daily chewing forces.
Minimally Invasive to Tooth Structure
Compared to amalgam, dental composite require less removal of healthy tooth structure. The filling material bonds directly to the tooth, allowing the dentist to preserve more of your natural tooth. This conservative approach improves long-term tooth strength and stability.
Versatile Use for Repairs
Composite resin isn’t just used for cavities. It’s also highly adaptable for cosmetic dental treatments, including fixing chipped, cracked, or worn teeth. This flexibility makes it a popular option in many cosmetic dental procedures.
Reduced Tooth Sensitivity
Patients often report less post-procedure sensitivity with composite compared to metal fillings. Because composites are less conductive to temperature changes, you’re less likely to feel discomfort when eating hot or cold foods.
How Often Do Dental Composite Fillings Need to Be Replaced?
Dental composite generally last between 5 to 10 years, depending on their size, location, your oral hygiene, and the type of material used. Those placed on molars may wear out sooner due to constant chewing pressure. While amalgam fillings can last a bit longer (up to 15 years), many patients prefer composite options for their natural appearance and safety. Signs like cracks, discoloration, sensitivity, or pain when chewing often indicate it’s time for a replacement. Regular dental checkups can help catch these issues early.
What is the Procedure for Getting a Dental Filling?
Initial Examination and Cavity Assessment
Your dentist will first examine the affected tooth using visual inspection and X-rays. This helps determine the severity of decay and whether a filling is the most suitable option. Composite is often recommended for small to medium cavities and in areas where aesthetics matter.
Local Anaesthesia for Comfort
Once your dentist confirms the treatment, they’ll administer local anesthesia to numb the surrounding area. This ensures that you feel no pain during the procedure. The numbness may last a few hours after the appointment, so it’s important to avoid chewing hard food on that side right away.
Removing Tooth Decay
The decayed portion of your tooth will be carefully removed using a dental drill or laser. This step is essential for preventing further spread of bacteria. The cavity is cleaned thoroughly before the filling is placed.
Tooth Conditioning and Bonding Agent
The prepared area is treated with a gentle acid gel to roughen the surface microscopically. A bonding agent is then applied to help the composite resin adhere securely to the tooth structure.
Placing the Composite Resin
Your dentist layers the composite resin into the cavity in small increments. Each layer is hardened using a curing light, which solidifies the material quickly and bonds it to the tooth surface.
Shaping and Polishing
After all layers are placed, the dentist sculpts the filling to match your tooth’s natural shape. Once the contouring is done, the filling is polished to a smooth finish - this not only looks great but also prevents staining and plaque buildup.
Final Bite Check and Adjustments
You’ll be asked to bite down gently to ensure that your filling doesn’t interfere with your bite. Minor adjustments are made if needed. Once the dentist confirms the filling feels right, you're done. This quick and minimally invasive procedure is one of the most common tooth filling treatments in Malaysia, especially for those seeking natural-looking results.
How Much Do Dental Composite Fillings Cost in Malaysia?
The cost of a dental composite can vary depending on several factors – from the complexity of the case to the location of the dental clinic. In Malaysia, the average price typically ranges between RM150 to RM400 per tooth for a basic filling. However, more complex restorations or larger cavities may push the cost higher.
Factors Influencing the Cost
The first factor is the size and location of the cavity. Fillings on molars, for example, tend to cost more because they require more material and time due to the tooth’s shape and location.
Next is the material used for tooth filling. Composite fillings, especially those placed on front teeth for cosmetic purposes, often require more skill and precision to match the natural shade of your teeth – contributing to slightly higher fees compared to amalgam.
The experience of your dentist and the type of equipment used can also affect the cost. At Fresh Dental Kepong, we use high-quality composite materials and minimally invasive techniques to ensure long-lasting results.
Additionally, if your case requires multiple visits or repairs of existing fillings, this may also affect the total price.
While dental composite may cost a bit more than traditional options, their durability, appearance, and safety often make them the preferred choice for patients seeking long-term value and aesthetic results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if a dental filling falls out?
If a dental filling falls out, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. A lost filling can leave your tooth exposed, increasing the risk of pain, sensitivity, or decay. While waiting for your appointment, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and keep the area clean by gently rinsing with warm water. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if the tooth is sensitive. Your dentist will usually replace the filling or recommend another restoration to protect your tooth and restore its function.
Do dental composite fillings stain over time?
Yes, dental composite fillings can stain, especially if you frequently drink coffee, tea, red wine, or smoke. However, surface stains can usually be polished off during regular check-ups. If the staining is internal or excessive, replacing the filling might be the better option.
Is the dental filling procedure painful?
Not at all. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. At most, you might feel minor pressure. After the numbness wears off, some people experience mild sensitivity, but it generally goes away in a few days.
Are dental composite fillings good for front teeth?
Absolutely. In fact, dental composite fillings are one of the most recommended options for front teeth repairs because they blend so naturally with your tooth color. Their bonding strength also makes them great for minor chips and cracks.
Are there risks involved with dental composite?
Composite is generally very safe, but if done poorly, it can lead to marginal leakage or bonding failure. That’s why it’s important to get them done by a skilled dentist who knows how to properly isolate the tooth and cure each layer correctly.
Book a Dental Composite Filling Appointment With Fresh Dental Care Kepong
If you’re noticing tooth sensitivity, decay, or old fillings that need replacement, now’s the time to act. At Fresh Dental Care Kepong, we offer expert composite filling treatments using high-quality materials that match your natural teeth.
Our clinic in Kepong is known for precise, comfortable procedures, whether you’re getting your first filling or replacing an old amalgam. Plus, we provide transparent pricing and personalised care tailored to your smile.
Book your appointment now via WhatsApp or visit our clinic page to learn more about our full range of dental treatments in Kepong. Your journey to a healthier, brighter smile starts here.
