White fillings
South West Rocks Family Dental has been proudly serving the South West Rocks and Kempsey Shire for over 30 years.
White fillings
White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are how we restore decayed or damaged teeth. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, white fillings are made of a tooth-colored composite resin material that can be matched to the natural color of the surrounding teeth. Composite fillings also allow us to cut away much less tooth and helps keep mercury (found in amalgam) out of our beautiful South West Rocks waterways.
White fillings are tooth-colored composite resin fillings used to restore decayed or damaged teeth. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, white fillings blend in with the natural color of the teeth, making them virtually invisible.
The process of placing a white filling involves removing the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area, and then applying the composite resin material in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light, and the filling is then shaped and polished to a smooth finish.
White fillings are a popular option because they are aesthetically pleasing and preserve the natural tooth structure. They can be used to treat a variety of dental problems, including cavities, chips, and cracks. White fillings are also a popular choice for patients who may be sensitive to metals commonly used in traditional silver amalgam fillings.
Pros of white fillings (composite fillings):
Aesthetically pleasing: White fillings blend in with the natural color of the teeth, making them virtually invisible.
Preservation of natural tooth structure: White fillings are a conservative treatment approach that preserves the natural tooth structure.
Versatility: White fillings can be used to treat a variety of dental problems, including cavities, chips, and cracks.
No sensitivity to metals: White fillings are a popular choice for patients who may be sensitive to metals commonly used in traditional silver amalgam fillings.
Bonding strength: White fillings bond to the tooth structure, providing additional support to the remaining tooth structure.
Frequently Asked Questions about White fillings
The process of placing a white filling involves removing the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area, and then applying the composite resin material in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light, and the filling is then shaped and polished to a smooth finish.
The longevity of white fillings depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage or decay, the care the dentist takes to place the filling and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. With proper care, white fillings can last several years before needing to be replaced.
Yes, white fillings can be used to replace old silver amalgam fillings with tooth-colored composite resin material that blends in with the surrounding teeth. However once an amalgam is placed there are limited benefits to replacing it with composite.
Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity following white filling placement, but this typically resolves on its own within a few days.
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