Fillings

White fillings repair teeth with a subtle, natural-looking restoration

Dentists have been using metal fillings as the standard treatment to repair cavities for over a hundred years. Amalgam fillings are incredibly durable restorations, however they aren’t the most cosmetic choice of treatment. Thanks to modern materials, we can create tooth-coloured fillings from composite.

White fillings are made from tooth-coloured resin, a mixture of plastic and glass that blends in beautifully with your teeth. They support the structure of a damaged tooth, helping to prevent further breakage or sensitivity, and can be placed in the front or back teeth.

What is involved in getting a filling?

• We first numb the area with a local anaesthetic and remove the decayed part of the tooth.
• A gel is applied to the tooth, creating tiny holes to allow the composite material to bond effectively.
• The acidic gel is washed away and the tooth dried.
• A priming agent is applied so the composite filling will form a strong bond.
• The colour matched shade of composite is then applied in layers and moulded to match the shape of the tooth.
• The resin is hardened with a special bright light and it is then polished to look like a natural part of the tooth.

How long white fillings last will depend on the depth of the cavity to be filled and its position in the mouth. To prevent decay forming around the composite filling, it is important to brush at least twice a day and see your dentist for regular check-ups.