Your Guide to Cosmetic Tooth-Coloured Restorations



Tooth-coloured restorations are a popular and natural-looking way to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, wear, or minor trauma. At Star Dental Care in Port Macquarie, we provide advanced cosmetic restorations designed to blend seamlessly with your smile. In this guide, we will answer the most common questions patients ask about tooth-coloured restorations.

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What are tooth-coloured restorations?

Tooth-coloured restorations are dental fillings or restorations made from composite resin or ceramic materials that match the natural shade of your teeth. Unlike traditional silver (amalgam) fillings, these restorations are designed to blend in, offering a discreet, attractive alternative that supports both function and aesthetics.

What materials are used for tooth-coloured restorations?

There are two primary types:

  • Composite Resin: A tooth-coloured plastic and glass mixture used for fillings, bonding, and minor reshaping.

  • Porcelain (Ceramic): A durable and lifelike material used in inlays, onlays, and crowns for a more permanent and stain-resistant result.

At Star Dental Care, we carefully select the most appropriate material based on the size, location, and function of the restoration.

When are tooth-coloured restorations recommended?

Tooth-coloured restorations are ideal for:

  • Filling cavities

  • Replacing old amalgam fillings

  • Repairing chipped or cracked teeth

  • Improving the appearance of discoloured teeth

  • Reshaping worn or irregular tooth surfaces

They are especially suitable for front teeth or other visible areas where aesthetics are a priority.

How long do tooth-coloured restorations last?

With proper care, composite fillings can last 5–10 years, while porcelain restorations such as inlays, onlays, and crowns can last 10–15 years or more. Longevity depends on:

  • The quality of the materials used

  • Your oral hygiene habits

  • Whether you grind or clench your teeth

  • The skill of the dentist performing the procedure

At Star Dental Care, we focus on precision, durability, and aesthetics to give you the best possible outcome.

Do tooth-coloured fillings look natural?

Yes. One of the main benefits of tooth-coloured restorations is their ability to mimic natural tooth enamel. Composite resins are available in multiple shades, allowing us to match the filling to your tooth colour precisely. Once polished, the restoration becomes virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth.

Can I replace my old silver fillings with tooth-coloured ones?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to have their amalgam (silver) fillings replaced with composite or ceramic alternatives for cosmetic or health reasons. We’ll assess the condition of your existing fillings and recommend the safest and most effective replacement plan tailored to your needs.

Are tooth-coloured restorations strong enough for back teeth?

Yes—modern composite and ceramic materials are strong and resilient, making them suitable even for molars that handle significant chewing forces. Porcelain is especially durable and often used for larger restorations in the back of the mouth, such as crowns or onlays.

What is the process for getting a tooth-coloured filling?

The process is simple and typically completed in one visit:

  1. Examination & Shade Matching: We assess the tooth and choose a resin colour that best matches your enamel.

  2. Preparation: The tooth is cleaned and prepared, removing any decay or damage.

  3. Bonding: The composite material is applied in layers, each one hardened with a special curing light.

  4. Shaping & Polishing: Once fully set, the restoration is shaped to match your natural bite and polished for a smooth, seamless finish.

Porcelain restorations may require two visits and are custom-made by a dental lab.

Are tooth-coloured restorations safe?

Yes. Composite and porcelain materials are biocompatible and safe for long-term use. Composite resins used today are BPA-free and extensively tested for durability and biocompatibility. If you have sensitivities or allergies, we will discuss your options to ensure your comfort and safety.

Do tooth-coloured fillings stain?

Composite resins are somewhat more prone to staining than porcelain. However, with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, discolouration is minimal. Avoiding excessive consumption of staining substances like coffee, red wine, and tobacco can also help your restorations stay whiter for longer.

Porcelain restorations, on the other hand, are highly resistant to staining and retain their colour for many years.

How do I care for my tooth-coloured restorations?

Care for them as you would your natural teeth:

  • Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste

  • Floss daily

  • Avoid using your teeth as tools (e.g. opening bottles)

  • Visit Star Dental Care regularly for check-ups and cleans

If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your restorations and natural teeth.

Are tooth-coloured restorations covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

Tooth-coloured restorations are not covered by Medicare for adults. However, if your child is eligible under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), basic fillings and restorations may be included.

For adults, private health insurance with extras cover may rebate part of the cost, depending on your policy. At Star Dental Care, we offer HICAPS for on-the-spot claims and can help you understand your entitlements before proceeding with treatment.

Why choose Star Dental Care for cosmetic restorations?

At Star Dental Care, we combine clinical expertise with a gentle, personalised approach. Here’s why patients trust us with their cosmetic restorations:

  • We use the latest in adhesive dentistry techniques and materials

  • Treatments are tailored to your unique smile and goals

  • We prioritise minimally invasive methods to preserve natural tooth structure

  • Dr Jeremy Rourke has over two decades of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry

  • Our modern, welcoming clinic in Port Macquarie is equipped with advanced technology

Ready to enhance your smile?

If you're considering tooth-coloured restorations to improve your smile or replace old fillings, we’d love to help. Our team at Star Dental Care is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

🦷 Star Dental Care

📍 61 Lord Street, Port Macquarie, NSW
📞   02 6583 6111

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A brighter, more confident smile may be just one visit away.

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