Traditional, or amalgam, fillings are the material most people think of when they hear ‘tooth fillings’. This silver/grey amalgam material is not only unsightly but it also contains mercury and can be potentially toxic and should be avoided if possible.
At The Gentle Dental & Implant Clinic we offer our patients white fillings made from resin and inorganic materials such as glass ceramics and/or porcelain. This more natural looking material, when mixed with enamel and dentin bonding techniques, can restore damaged teeth and give them a more natural look and feel- including the front teeth.
This more natural and versatile material is quickly becoming the filling of choice because of its many uses and more attractive appearance. In fact, many patients are now choosing to replace their old silver fillings with this safer alternative.
If you would like more information about the safe removal of amalgam fillings ask your Gentle Dental dentist and they will answer all of your quesitons.
My dentist gave me the choice between traditional and white fillings and explained the difference. I know I made the right decision to get white fillings. They look completely natural. You would never know they were there.
Although both types of fillings ultimately serve the same purpose of protecting the tooth from further damage, white fillings take a bit more time and effort to put into place due to the fact that your dentist needs to ensure the new white filling matches the colour and contour of your tooth. However, we believe you’ll be more than pleased with the final result.
Probably not! Our dentists are trained to the highest standards and will take the time needed to make sure your tooth is restored to its original shape and colour. In fact, by the time your dentist is finished you may not be able to tell you have a filling, not to mention other people!
White fillings have always been considered less long lasting than silver amalgam fillings. But there are now new materials available with properties comparable to silver amalgam, and these are proving to be very successful. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite. Your dentist can advise you on the life expectancy of your fillings.
As with many dental procedures, you may experience some sensitivity after receiving your new white filling. However, this sensitivity typically goes away on its own within a few days and most people experience no discomfort whatsoever.
Adhesive dentistry is another form of this treatment. This involves bonding the filling to the tooth. The dentist has to remove less of the tooth, which is obviously better.
As we have already said, there are alternatives such as crowns and inlays although they can cost a lot more. Veneers can be used on front teeth instead of crowns or fillings.
Because many white fillings are only available privately, costs can vary quite a lot from dentist to dentist. Costs usually depend on the size and type of white filling used and the time it takes to complete the treatment. Costs may also vary from region to region. As a guide, white fillings start from around £40 each, but your dentist will be able to give you an idea of the cost before you agree to treatment.
Gentle Dental & Implant Clinic
14 Church Street
Warrenpoint
Co. Down
BT34 3HN
Telephone
NI: 028 4175 2220
RoI: 048 4175 2220
Email
info@gentledentalclinic.com
