White Fillings
More Natural Looking FillingsWhite/Natural Coloured Fillings
More Natural Looking Fillings
When you think of tooth fillings you probably picture the traditional amalgam fillings with the silver colour.
At Camlough Dental, we give you the option of having the more aesthetically pleasing white fillings put in place. These fillings are made from resin and inorganic materials such as glass ceramics and/or porcelain for a much more natural look.
The Process
Putting Your White Filling in Place
Fitting a white filling is essentially the same as getting a traditional amalgam filling. We will remove the decayed matter in the affected tooth and reshape the exposed area so it is ready for the filling. The white filling material is then put in place and allowed to harden.
As well as being used to repair areas of decay, white fillings can also be used to restore chipped or uneven teeth and return them to their original shape.
The Benefits of White Fillings
While traditional amalgam fillings contain mercury, white fillings are made from resin and inorganic materials like glass ceramics and/or porcelain. When combined with enamel and dentin bonding techniques, white fillings can help restore the shine, shape and texture of your teeth and give them a more natural look.
White fillings are becoming the standard in many dental practices and we find that some of our patients are deciding to replace their old amalgam fillings for health and aesthetic reasons.
Aftercare
Aftercare for Your White Filling
- Avoid chewing and hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off (usually 1-3 hours after the procedure) so you don’t accidentally bite your tongue or cheek
- Stick to soft foods for the first day or two to minimise discomfort and allow your filling to settle
- Avoid chewing on hard objects
- Be mindful of staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and curry. If you do consume any of these items, be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards
- Practise good oral hygiene and brush your teeth twice a day and interdental brushes or floss once a day. Be extra gentle when brushing around the new filling
- Avoid mouthwash that contains alcohol as it can irritate your gums and may affect the filling over time
- See your dentist for regular checkups
If you experience any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort around the filling, contact your dentist immediately.
FAQs
What are the advantages of white fillings?
White fillings are much less noticeable and can be easily shaped and contoured to look more like your natural teeth. White fillings do take slightly more time to put into place but the end result is a filling that is practically invisible and may need less adjustment to the tooth, therefore better for the tooth.
Should I replace my amalgam fillings with white ones?
We recommend you replace fillings only when necessary, but we understand you may want them replaced for aesthetic or health reasons. When this happens you can ask to have it replaced with a natural coloured filling. Speak to your dentists to see if replacing your amalgam fillings is right for you.
Are white fillings as good as silver amalgam fillings?
In the past, white fillings were considered less durable than silver amalgam fillings. However, with recent advances in materials and technology, white fillings are now nearly as strong as silver amalgam. How long a white filling lasts can depend a lot on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite.
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