White fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a modern dental solution designed to repair teeth affected by decay or damage while maintaining a natural appearance. Unlike traditional metal fillings, white fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. They are made from a durable tooth-colored resin that bonds directly to the tooth structure, providing additional support and reducing the risk of further decay. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area, and filling it with the composite material, which is then hardened with a special light. This treatment not only restores the tooth’s integrity but also enhances the overall look of your smile. Perfect for those seeking a discreet and effective solution to dental issues, white fillings at German Dental Clinic are a popular choice for patients looking to maintain a natural, healthy smile.
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White Fillings London
White fillings, or composite resin fillings, are a modern dental solution that blends seamlessly with natural teeth, providing a discreet and aesthetically pleasing way to restore teeth affected by decay or damage. Composed of a durable mixture of acrylic resin and finely ground glass particles, these fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, offering enhanced support and reduced risk of further decay. The application involves numbing the area, removing decay, and layering the composite material, which is then hardened with a special light.
The advantages of white fillings include their natural appearance, strong bonding strength, versatility in treating various dental issues, and reduced sensitivity compared to metal fillings. They can be used for both functional restorations and cosmetic improvements, such as reshaping teeth or closing gaps. With proper care, including good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding hard foods, white fillings can be durable and long-lasting.
While white fillings may be more expensive than traditional metal fillings, their benefits make them a worthwhile investment. At German Dental Clinic, the cost ranges from £245 to £350, reflecting the quality and effectiveness of the treatment. To ensure the longevity of white fillings, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices and limit the consumption of staining foods and beverages.
Consultation
Patients will usually be informed by the dentist at a regular check-up if they require a tooth filling. Your dentist will ask if you would prefer a white or silver filling. Whilst silver fillings can be more longer lasting, you may prefer a white filling as it is more discreet and less noticeable.
Treatment
First, the treatment area will be numbed using a local anaesthetic injection. Any old filling material or decay will then be removed, the tooth thoroughly cleaned and varnished to help the filling stick. The white filling will be placed, shaped and hardened with a specialist light placed directly above.
Aftercare
Following your filling your dentist will recommend you avoid certain foods and drinks for the several hours after the treatment e.g. sticky, chewy or extremley hot/cold foods. Whilst a filling is used to combat damage caused by decay or damage, it doesn't prevent it from happening again. Regular brushing, flossing and trips for check-ups will help your dental health.
EXPLANATION
Why do I need a filling?
Tooth decay is the most common reason for needing a filling. Decay is caused by bacteria that produce acids after having sugary food and acidic drinks and not cleaning your teeth and gums.
If left untreated, the cavity will get bigger and can lead to tooth loss. Therefore it is important to have a filling soon after they are detected.
AESTHETIC
Why we only use white fillings
Composite (white) fillings are much more aesthetic and more conservative in tooth preparation. Many people choose to have their Amalgam (silver) fillings replaced with composite because it is aesthetically more pleasing and are more durable so have a reduced risk of cracks in the tooth. If you are thinking of changing your Amalgam fillings, speak with your dentist so you can discuss your options together.
At German Dental Clinic, we prioritize the health, aesthetics, and overall satisfaction of our patients, which is why we exclusively offer white fillings. White fillings, made from composite resin, provide a natural and seamless appearance, blending perfectly with the existing teeth. Unlike traditional metal fillings, they bond directly to the tooth structure, offering better support and reducing the risk of further decay or damage. Additionally, composite fillings are free from mercury, ensuring a safer option for our patients. By choosing white fillings, we ensure our patients receive the most advanced, aesthetically pleasing, and health-conscious dental care available.
Advantages of White Fillings
White fillings offer several benefits over traditional metal fillings:
- Aesthetics: The primary advantage of white fillings is their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural colour of your teeth. This makes them ideal for visible areas of the mouth, such as the front teeth.
- Bonding Strength: Composite resin fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, providing additional support and reducing the likelihood of further damage or decay. This bonding also helps to preserve more of the natural tooth compared to metal fillings, which may require more extensive removal of healthy tooth structure.
- Versatility: White fillings can be used to repair not only cavities but also chipped, cracked, or worn teeth. They can also be used for cosmetic improvements, such as reshaping misshapen teeth or closing gaps between teeth.
- Reduced Sensitivity: Unlike metal fillings, which can expand and contract with temperature changes, causing sensitivity, composite resin fillings have a lower thermal conductivity. This means they are less likely to cause discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.
What happens when you have a filling?
White fillings are composed of a mixture of plastic (acrylic resin) and finely ground glass particles. This combination provides a durable and tooth-coloured restoration that bonds well to the tooth structure. The application of white fillings involves several steps:
- Preparation: The dentist begins by numbing the area around the affected tooth with a local anaesthetic. This ensures that the procedure is comfortable and pain-free.
- Removal of Decay: The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed using dental instruments. The area is then cleaned to remove any debris and bacteria.
- Etching and Bonding: The dentist applies a special etching gel to the prepared tooth surface. This gel roughens the tooth slightly, allowing the bonding agent to adhere more effectively. After rinsing off the gel, a bonding agent is applied to the tooth and cured with a special light.
- Placement of Composite Material: The composite resin is applied in layers to the prepared tooth. Each layer is shaped and hardened using a curing light. This process is repeated until the cavity is filled, and the tooth is restored to its natural shape and size.
- Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling is in place, the dentist shapes it to ensure a proper bite and smooth surface. The final step involves polishing the filling to match the sheen of the natural tooth, ensuring a seamless blend.
How to care for your white fillings
With proper care, white fillings can be quite durable and long-lasting. Here are some tips to ensure the longevity of your white fillings:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent decay around the filling.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your fillings and address any potential issues early.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard foods or objects, such as ice or pens, can damage your fillings. Be mindful of what you eat and avoid habits that could compromise the integrity of your dental restorations.
- Limit Staining Foods and Beverages: While composite resin is resistant to staining, it’s still a good idea to limit consumption of foods and drinks that can cause discolouration, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco.
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PRICING
How much do white fillings cost?
The cost of white fillings can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the cavity, the complexity of the procedure, and the materials used. At German Dental Clinic, we strive to offer high-quality dental care at competitive prices. White fillings generally range from £245 to £350 per filling. While they may be more expensive than traditional metal fillings, the benefits—such as their natural appearance, strong bonding capabilities, and mercury-free composition—make them a worthwhile investment in your dental health and aesthetics.
Small - per tooth
From £198.00Medium - per tooth
From £249.00Large - per tooth
From £392.00
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of white fillings?
Perhaps the most obvious benefit is they’re far less noticeable than standard metal fillings, giving you reassurance that any white fillings you receive from us will perfectly blend with your existing teeth. White fillings can also be used to re-shape uneven teeth, close gaps and even reduce discolouration, making them a truly versatile treatment.
HOW LONG DOES A WHITE FILLING TAKE?
Treatment times will significantly vary upon the size and quantity of teeth needing to be filled – this will be discussed with you upon consultation. Typically, white fillings take slightly longer to place than metal alternatives, simply because they’re more technically advanced.
Are white fillings painful?
As with all other fillings, white fillings will require a local anaesthetic injection to eliminate pain during treatment. However, if the filling is extremely small, no anaesthetic may be required.
What are white fillings made of?
White fillings are composed of a composite resin material, which is a mixture of plastic (acrylic resin) and finely ground glass particles. This combination creates a durable, tooth-colored restoration that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. The material is designed to mimic the appearance and function of natural tooth enamel, providing a strong and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental repairs.
Are white fillings better than metal fillings?
White fillings offer several advantages over metal fillings. Aesthetically, they blend with your natural tooth color, making them virtually invisible. Functionally, they bond directly to the tooth structure, providing added strength and reducing the risk of further decay. White fillings also expand and contract less with temperature changes compared to metal fillings, which reduces the likelihood of tooth cracks. Additionally, they do not contain mercury, which is a concern for some patients.
How much do white fillings cost?
At German Dental Clinic, white fillings typically range from £245 to £350 per filling. The cost can vary based on the size and complexity of the cavity, as well as the location of the tooth being treated. While they may be more expensive than traditional metal fillings, the aesthetic and health benefits often make them a worthwhile investment.
Do white fillings cause sensitivity?
White fillings generally cause less sensitivity than metal fillings. However, some patients may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the procedure. This sensitivity usually subsides within a few days to a week as the tooth adjusts to the new filling. If sensitivity persists, it’s important to contact your dentist for further evaluation and advice.
Can I replace my old metal fillings with white fillings?
Yes, many patients opt to replace their old metal fillings with white fillings for both aesthetic and health reasons. During your dental visit, the dentist will carefully remove the old filling material, clean the cavity, and place the new composite filling. This can be done gradually or all at once, depending on the number and condition of the existing fillings.
How is a white filling procedure performed?
The procedure begins with numbing the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort. The dentist then removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and cleans the area. A bonding agent is applied to the tooth to help the composite resin adhere properly. The composite resin is placed in layers, with each layer being hardened using a special curing light. Once the filling is in place, the dentist shapes and polishes it to ensure a comfortable bite and smooth finish.
Are white fillings suitable for all teeth?
White fillings are versatile and can be used for both front and back teeth. They are particularly popular for visible teeth due to their natural appearance, but they are also strong enough to withstand the chewing forces of molars. Your dentist can advise you on the best type of filling material for your specific dental needs, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics.