White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are an aesthetic answer to amalgam (silver) fillings and offer further benefits that we will discuss below. Perhaps you’re in need of a filling or looking to replace your amalgam filling with a more durable and cosmetic solution – white fillings may be the answer.
White fillings are aesthetic
Composite fillings are made from composite resin, which is a tooth-coloured plastic mixture filled with glass (silica) and resin that can restore the natural appearance of your smile.
Unsightly amalgam fillings can stop you from wanting to smile and make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. White fillings enable you to smile, open your mouth, and eat with confidence.
Not susceptible to temperature
Amalgam fillings are susceptible to something known as thermal stresses, which is when fillings contract and expand as a result of exposure to hot and cold temperatures. Composite fillings possess insulating properties that offer a significantly higher level of protection from temperature changes and are therefore more resistant to weakening and cracking that can occur as a result of consuming hot and cold food and drinks.
Less drilling involved than other types of filling
Patients who have previously had amalgam fillings will know that in order to place the filling, a substantial amount of the existing tooth has to be removed in addition to the decayed sections of the tooth. Unfortunately, this can lead to weakness of the tooth structure and by contrast, white fillings require less tooth to be removed. Once the filling is bonded to your natural tooth, the result will be stronger than in the case of an amalgam filling. The less your dentist has to drill your tooth, the less likely you will be to develop problems in the future.
Composite fillings are more easily repaired
Composite fillings are repairable if they start to degrade and here at Cliftonville we can replace the amalgam fillings that you have with new, custom-made composite versions that are mercury-free.
If you would like to make an appointment at our Northampton practice, please do not hesitate to contact us.