Why should l consider white fillings?

Many people have fillings of one type or another in their mouths.
Nowadays fillings are both functional and natural looking. Many people don’t want to have silver fillings because that shows when they laugh or smile.

Are white fillings expensive?

Because many white fillings are classed as a cosmetic treatment, you can only have them done privately. So costs can be different from dentist to dentist.

Price varies according to the size and type of white filling used, and the time it takes to complete the treatment. Costs can also be different from region to region, but your dentist will be able to give you an estimation of the cost before you agree to treatment.

Are they as good as silver amalgam fillings?

White fillings have always been considered less long lasting compared to silver amalgam fillings. But there are now new materials available with properties similar to silver amalgam, and these materials are proving to be very successful.

The life expectancy of a white filling depends a lot on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite. Your dentist will advise you on the life span of your fillings.

Is it worth replacing the amalgam fillings with white ones?

It is usually best to change fillings only when your dentist suggests that an old filling needs replacing. If so you can also ask to have it replaced with a tooth-colored material.

Some dentists do not recommend putting white fillings in back teeth as they are not always promising. One way for this would be to use crowns or inlays, but this can mean removing more of the tooth and can be more expensive.

What is tooth- colored filling made of?

This can be different, but they are mainly made from synthetic resin, glass particles, and a setting ingredient. Your dentist can give you more details about the material they use.

Glass ionomer filling:

It makes a chemical link with the tooth. They can also release fluoride, which prevents further tooth decay. This type of filling is weak and, usually is limited to use on baby teeth and non-biting surfaces such as around the necks of the teeth. Little preparation is needed as the filling bonds directly on to the tooth.

Porcelain Inlays:

Your dentist will now use digital technology ( called CADCAM) to design and prepare perfectly fitted porcelain inlays in just one or two visits. Porcelain inlays are made in a laboratory, but this will need at least two visits to your dentist. Porcelain can be hard-wearing and long-lasting and also matches with the color of your natural tooth. Again, this type of filling can be quite costly.

Composite fillings:

Composite fillings are strong. But it might not be hard compared to wearing amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are tooth-colored and are made from powdered glass quartz, silica, or other ceramic particles added to a resin base.

After the tooth is prepared, the filling is bonded onto the area, and a light is shone onto it to set it, The dentist will choose a shade to match your original teeth, although over time teeth can get stained.

Where can I get them done?

Most dental practices often white fillings as a regular part of the treatment they give you.

Where can I get more information?

Your dentist will suggest you what kind of filling material is suited to your situation. Talk with your dentist if you would like a specific type of filling material like tooth-colored fillings.
Always remember to ask a treatment plan and a written estimate before going ahead with any treatment.