White fillings

White fillings offer an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional amalgam fillings to blend in with the rest of your tooth.

At Number 18 Dental we provide an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional amalgam (metal) fillings in the form of white fillings.

White fillings are a white composite material used to fill cavities in the same way as amalgam fillings, however the white appearance aims to match the tooth to ensure the filling is not noticeable.

White fillings process

White fillings can be placed in one appointment. Your dentist will begin by removing any decay and/or old filling material. The area will then be thoroughly cleaned, dried and prepared by etching the tooth and applying a gel and bonding solution.

The white composite material is moulded into the cavity to mimic the contours of your own teeth. and a curing light is used to set the white composite material.

Finally the filling is polished and adjusted to your bite.

Benefits of white fillings

• Helps to alleviate symptoms caused by tooth decay
• An aesthetically pleasing alternative to amalgam fillings
• A great choice for rebuilding worn or chipped front teeth

White fillings FAQs

• Will the filling stand out if my teeth aren’t perfectly white?

  Because the composite used in the fillings is colour-matched to your teeth, your filling will usually blend in well with the rest of your smile.

• Is it worth replacing my old amalgam fillings with new white ones?

  General advice is to wait until your filling needs replacing. This prevents excessive weakening of the teeth. However, if and when this happens, you can ask your dentist to replace your filling where suitable.

• How long do fillings last?

  The expected life-span of a filling depends on a number of factors, including whereabouts in the mouth the filling is located. Excellent home oral hygiene with regular checkups and hygienist visits are important to prolong the white fillings’ lifespan.