White Fillings

White fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, are a type of dental filling used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma.

Unlike traditional metal fillings, white fillings blend with the natural color of your teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result. Here’s a detailed overview:

Composition

Material: White fillings are made from a composite resin material that includes a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. This material is designed to match the color of natural teeth, making the fillings less noticeable.

Procedure

Preparation: The dentist first removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. The area is then cleaned to prepare it for the filling.
Application: The composite resin is applied in layers. Each layer is hardened using a special light (usually a blue curing light). The layers are built up to fill the cavity or damaged area completely.
Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling is hardened, the dentist shapes and polishes it to ensure it fits well with your bite and matches the natural contours of your tooth.

How long do white fillings typically last compared to metal fillings?

White fillings generally have a lifespan of 5 to 10 years, depending on factors such as the size of the filling, the location of the filling, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. In comparison, metal fillings (such as amalgam) often last 10 to 15 years or more. While white fillings are durable, they may wear down more quickly under heavy chewing pressure or if they are placed in a large cavity. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the condition of white fillings and determine when they may need to be replaced.

Can white fillings be used for large cavities or only for small ones?

White fillings can be used for both small and moderately sized cavities. Advances in composite resin materials have improved their strength and durability, making them suitable for a variety of dental restorations, including some larger cavities. However, for very large cavities or situations where the tooth needs significant structural support, a dentist might recommend alternative options such as dental crowns or inlays/onlays to ensure optimal function and longevity.

Are there any specific care instructions for white fillings to keep them looking their best?

To maintain the appearance and longevity of white fillings, consider the following care instructions:

Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Limit consumption of substances that can stain fillings, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. If you consume these, brushing your teeth shortly afterward can help minimize staining.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup and protect both the fillings and surrounding tooth structure.
Regular Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups to monitor the condition of your fillings and address any issues before they become significant problems.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your white fillings remain functional and aesthetically pleasing for as long as possible.

For more information regarding this treatment

Back to General Dentistry

Diana Birtwistle

14:11 11 Apr 25

Referred by my usual dentist for root canal surgery to Collingham Dental. Was treated with great skill, professionalism and kindness when faced with a tricky procedure which was completed with absolutely minimum stress to the patient.Can highly recommend this practise

Laura Lindsay

08:09 07 Feb 25

Sandy has been amazing with my daughter, we are 11 months into our Angel aligners treatment and the difference in my daughters teeth are unbelievable, and have brought out her confidence and her smile so much!

Carol | Carol Saunders Swim School

08:58 28 Dec 24

Amit is an amazing dentist. I have always feared going to the dentist but Amit is very gentle and explains everything he is doing. I have received alot of treatment with Amit and love my new look. I highly recommend Amit as a gentle kind dentist

Daniela Simonato

10:13 05 Aug 24

This practice is very innovative and has good grasp of the latest dental techniques. After years of being told that 1) my teeth couldn't be whitened and 2) my difficult bite would continue to wear my bottom teeth down with no solution but to have crowns this practice has resolved both issues. Having just completed a lengthy 3 year restoration programme which has changed my bite, straightened some teeth in the process and also has resulted in white teeth (for the first time in my life). There was always great attention to detail and if certain composites or crowns weren't quite perfect Amit would get these remade until they were. The results has been quite amazing and well worth the journey

DAP

17:46 09 Jun 24

This is a fabulous dental practice. My crown treatment at another practice was not going well and I moved, mid treatment, to Collingham Dental care. The crown has now been properly placed (following a redo of the previous work) and the whole procedure was explained as we went along, with transparent costs and all my questions answered. I feel in very good hands. Thank you.

Patience Tucker

09:41 21 May 24

From start to finish, the whole process was efficient and I felt like my needs were being taken into consideration. Root Canals are not and watching Netflix whilst this was happening made the time go fast! Great service and thanks for fitting me in!

nasira amtul

13:20 28 Apr 24

A really good practice with very friendly staff. Emily is an excellent clinician. Andrea is brilliant! On each visit, I have always felt well-informed, reassured and provided with excellent care!

Tom Chaffer

10:03 24 Apr 24

I have just finished my Invisalign treatment at Collingham Dental Care and just want to say a huge thank you to Amit and his team, they were really friendly and professional.I recommend this practice to anyone.

Robert Edward Carter

19:45 14 Mar 24

Attended as a new patient a few days ago, and from the moment I walked through the door I felt at ease.I saw Amit for my checkup, he was very thorough, he told me things I’d not heard before.Andrea the hygienist was also great and gave me the tools to continue my cleaning regime at home.I would recommend this practice to anyone

Jenny Fairhurst

12:33 16 Aug 23

I have recently moved dental surgeries to Collingham. I had my first appointment with the dentist Emily for treatment, and the hygienist Emma for cleaning. They were so welcoming and my treatment was great. My teeth have never felt so clean. Also couldn't be happier with my treatment on two of my teeth that needed doing. Will recommend this dentist to everyone!

White Fillings

White Fillings

White fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, are a type of dental filling used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma.

Composition

Procedure

How long do white fillings typically last compared to metal fillings?

Can white fillings be used for large cavities or only for small ones?

Are there any specific care instructions for white fillings to keep them looking their best?

For more information regarding this treatment

Categories

General Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Implants

Facial Aesthetics

Advanced Dentistry

General Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Implants

Facial Aesthetics

Advanced Dentistry