If you require a filling in your tooth, a cosmetic option would be to choose a white filling material that matches the shade of your surrounding natural teeth. You can also have any existing metallic fillings replaced with tooth-coloured or 'white' fillings. You can discuss replacing any existing metallic fillings with your dentist.
White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a popular alternative to traditional silver-coloured fillings.
These fillings are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural tooth colour, making them a popular choice among patients who want to maintain the aesthetic appeal of their smile. The composite material used for white fillings is made up of a durable resin polymer material layered with hybrid glass ceramics and silicon dioxide. This creates a durable, strong filling that can withstand the normal wear and tear on teeth.
White fillings offer many benefits, including the ability to protect the natural tooth structure from further damage. They can also help to restore the tooth to its natural shape, allowing patients to retain their natural tooth structure and reduce the risk of more dental procedures.
While white fillings are a great option for many patients, it's important to note that they may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with large cavities or damage may require more extensive treatment like a crown. Likewise, individuals with a history of tooth decay or oral health issues may need to take additional steps to maintain their oral health after receiving white fillings.
Overall, white fillings are a safe and effective option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth.
At BDS we have been phasing out our mercury and amalgam fillings over the last 10 years in line with the new legislation in Europe for the use of mercury in dentistry.
First and foremost, the most apparent advantage of white fillings is to help restore the aesthetics for your damaged teeth. Unlike silver mercury fillings that stand out against your pearly whites, white fillings are tooth-coloured and virtually invisible. This means that you can maintain a natural and healthy look of your smile.
With silver fillings, the metal can expand and contract with temperature changes, which can weaken the tooth and increase the likelihood of fractures. White fillings, on the other hand, are more stable, making them a safer choice for your dental health. White fillings are less likely to cause oral health problems like tooth decay and post-operative sensitivity.
In conclusion, the advantages of white fillings are significant and vary from aesthetic benefits to oral health advantages. They are more natural-looking, safer for your teeth, and provide a more durable solution than traditional silver fillings. Nowadays, more and more dental patients are choosing white fillings over silver fillings due to their numerous benefits.
