Composite resin is by far the most commonly used white material used to restore both front and back teeth.

Composite resins are tooth-colored, plastic materials (made of glass and resin) that are used both as fillings and to repair defects in the teeth. Because they are tooth-colored, it is difficult to distinguish them from natural teeth. Composites are always used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important. They can be used on the back teeth as well depending on the location and extent of the tooth decay. In back teeth composite resins are more difficult and more time consuming to place and consequently are more costly than amalgam fillings.

In this practice, we take the view that amalgam fillings can be used safely in back teeth but that their use is reducing, mainly for cosmetic reasons. Where a patient requests a composite resin filling in a back tooth, we are happy to do so, provided that we do not weaken or compromise the tooth.