What to Know About Tooth Colored Fillings at Highfield Dental

Composite (tooth colored) fillings are one of the most common and effective ways to repair cavities and restore your smile, especially when aesthetics are a priority. At Highfield Dental, we often recommend composite fillings because they blend beautifully with your natural teeth and provide strong, functional results.

However, patients frequently ask us two important questions:
🟤 “Do composite fillings stain over time?”
🦷 “Are they permanent?”

In this blog, we’ll answer both and help you make informed decisions about your dental care.

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Do Composite Fillings Stain?

Yes, composite fillings can stain over time.
While they look great when first placed, they are made from a resin based material that is slightly porous. This means they can absorb pigments from foods, drinks, and other sources just like your natural teeth.

Common causes of staining include:

• ☕ Coffee and tea

• 🍷 Red wine

• 🍇 Dark-colored fruits and juices

• 🍝 Tomato-based sauces and curries

• 🚬 Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)

• 🥤 Cola and artificially colored drinks

Unlike natural teeth, however, composite fillings don’t respond to whitening treatments. So if they become discolored, the only way to restore their appearance is to polish or replace them.

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Are Composite Fillings Permanent?

No, composite fillings are not permanent, but they are designed to be long lasting and durable.

Here’s what you can expect:

• 🕒 Typical lifespan: 5–10 years (with good oral care)

• 💪 Ideal for small to medium-sized cavities

• 🦷 Can be placed on front or back teeth

The longevity of your filling depends on:

• Your brushing and flossing habits

• Diet (acidic or sugary foods can wear them down faster)

• Whether you grind your teeth or chew hard objects (like ice or pens)

Eventually, fillings may need to be replaced due to wear, staining, or breakdown at the edges. Regular dental check-ups help us monitor them and catch any problems early.

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How to Prevent Staining on Composite Fillings

Here are a few simple habits to help keep your fillings looking fresh and clean:

✅ Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
✅ Floss daily to remove plaque and food buildup
✅ Rinse with water after drinking coffee, tea, or wine
✅ Avoid smoking and tobacco products
✅ Limit stain causing foods and drinks when possible
✅ Schedule regular cleanings at Highfield Dental

💡 Bonus Tip: If you’re considering teeth whitening, let us know before starting. Whitening treatments won’t lighten composite fillings, so we may recommend updating them afterward to match your newly brightened smile.

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When to Replace a Stained Filling

If you notice your composite filling:

• Looks darker or discolored

• Doesn’t match the rest of your teeth

• Has rough or uneven edges

• Feels loose or sensitive

…it may be time to replace it. At Highfield Dental, we’ll evaluate your fillings and help you decide if a quick polish or a full replacement is the right solution.

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In Summary: What You Should Know