White Fillings
A safe and natural-looking alternative to mercury amalgam fillings
White porcelain and composite fillings are a safe and natural-looking alternative to mercury amalgam fillings.
If you have cavities or you want to replace your old amalgam fillings, speak to Karratha Dental Care about white filling treatments.
When are white fillings used?
Dental fillings are used to treat cavities resulting from tooth decay or injuries to teeth. They fill in the vacant space and are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth.
This natural appearance makes white fillings more visually appealing than metallic fillings. If you have old amalgam fillings that you want to remove for health reasons, white fillings can be used in their place.
What are the different types of white fillings?
White fillings come in two forms – porcelain fillings and composite resin fillings.
Porcelain fillings are stronger than resin, and are a good choice for larger cavities and to strengthen cracked teeth. Porcelain fillings need to be custom-made in advance and are cemented into the cavity by your dentist.
Composite fillings are commonly used for smaller cavities and defects as well as resurfacing. Composite resin fillings are formed directly inside the cavity and cured using a blue light.
Tooth bonding is an alternative to white fillings that also uses composite resin. Tooth bonding may be used to fix small chips and cavities, close gaps and modify the tooth surface.
What to expect
Your dentist will explain what the white fillings procedure involves during your consultation, and we will also advise you on how to look after your new filling for the best results.
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the areas of the mouth being treated before the tooth is opened using a dental drill. The porcelain or composite filling is then placed inside the cavity, bonded to the tooth’s surface and shaped before curing and polishing.
Placement of a white filling usually takes around 30 minutes. If you are having multiple fillings, the treatment will take longer or you may have to return for a follow-up appointment. We will check the condition of your fillings during your normal dental check-ups.
Are white fillings right for me?
If you or someone in your family has cavities, white fillings are generally the best option for restoring the integrity of your mouth. Our dentists will be able to advise you on whether porcelain or composite resin fillings would be more suitable, or if you would benefit from alternative treatments such as tooth bonding.
Contact us to arrange a consultation with our experienced dentists in Karratha about white fillings or any other oral health issue.
