These are an aesthetic type of filling which is often preferred to the traditional silver amalgam version. They are also known as ‘composite fillings’.
They are produced from a variety of materials, for example synthetic resin and are designed to match the rest of your natural teeth. These fillings are successful and are viewed as the equal of silver amalgam fillings.
White fillings are a popular choice with the over 25 age group.
REASONS FOR WHITE FILLINGS
The main reason for choosing white fillings is pure aesthetics. Many people choose white fillings due to self-consciousness about silver amalgam fillings when they laugh or smile.
Plus concerns have been raised about the safety of silver amalgam fillings due to the inclusion of mercury which has been cited as the cause of allergic reactions. But the British Dental Association (BDA) has reassured patients about the safety of this type of filling. They advise patients to talk to their dentists and for pregnant women to delay having this treatment until after their pregnancy.
WHITE FILLINGS PROCEDURE
A white filling is performed in the same way as a silver amalgam version. A small hole is drilled in the tooth which is then sealed with the white filling. A blue ‘curing light’ is shone directly onto the filling to harden it. This is repeated several times.
The filling is smoothed and then polished.
You may experience some sensitivity a few days afterwards, but this soon eases.