Dental filling technology has come a long way and gone are the days where amalgam (silver) fillings was the only choice for filling material! At Maudsland Dental Care, we offer white (composite resin) fillings as they allow for a more aesthetically pleasing result in tooth restoration. It is popular with our patients who want their teeth to appear more natural looking when talking, smiling or laughing without having noticeable dark or grey coloured fillings in view.
White fillings are made from tooth-coloured resin compounds that can restore the natural appearance of a decayed or previously filled tooth.
The advantages of white fillings include:
- The ability to achieve a more natural looking smile as the restored teeth can blend seamlessly with existing teeth
- Improved strength and bonding capacity to teeth through the use of a bonding agent
- It is a less invasive procedure compared to other dental restorations as less of the healthy parts of a tooth need to be removed in order to hold the fillings in place
- Cost and time effective as it usually requires only one visit during which the tooth is prepared and restored
Although composites are popular due to improved aesthetics, they are not suitable for all tooth restorations. For example, a crown would be preferred if the decayed area for restoration is large or is located on a tooth subject to frequent heavy pressure from chewing.
Like any other materials used in dentistry, white fillings may require periodic repair or replacement. Over time, the bonded adhesive layer of the filling may unstick from the tooth and create microscopic pockets for bacteria to re-infect the tooth between the filling and tooth enamel, which can result in further damage or decay if your teeth are not kept clean with daily brushing and flossing. Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups gives us an opportunity to identify any potential problems early on and prevent further issues.
