Tooth Coloured Fillings

Tooth coloured fillings are strong, durable and help create a natural looking smile

Did you know there is now an alternative to the typical silver amalgam fillings?

When people think of fillings, they think of the dark silver filings that can stand out when your smile. Up until now, these were the only option. Now there is an opportunity to have natural coloured fillings which are made out of composite resin material.

If you find that when you eat hot or cold food/drink and you feel a painful sensation, we recommend visiting the dentist to try prevent cavities or tooth decay. This feeling unfortunately cannot be ignored as it could lead to something more serious regarding your oral health.

Composite fillings:

Composite (white) fillings (also known as composite resin restorations) were created to be a more aesthetically pleasing compared to traditional metal dental fillings.

They are strong, durable and help to restore your natural looking smile. The filling is able to blend it with your existing teeth by matching the colour, texture and translucency. The composite fillings bonds to the remaining tooth structure, which helps to prevent breakage and further damage to your tooth.

Why would I need a filling?

Fillings are used for a variety of dental problems:

Tooth decay leads to cavities that will require drilling and a filling
Small holes (that are not necessarily cavities) will require a filling to prevent bacteria entering the tooth and causing tooth decay
A fractured tooth can be treated with a filling
Discoloured teeth that has occurred from grinding teeth or from foods/ drinks that can stain the teeth

Benefits of tooth coloured fillings:

The colour of the filling can be matched to the colour of your surrounding existing teeth so that the filling is less noticeable when you smile.
They are similar to the silver amalgam fillings in strength and stability
Due to the bonding of the filing to the existing tooth structure, a complete seal is created which prevents bacteria and causing further tooth decay.
Temperature changes of what we eat and drink do not affect the composite fillings

Inlays or Onlays

An inlay or onlay are sometimes more appropriate for those who find that half of their tooth surface has decayed. Usually an inlay or onlay is recommended when the tooth needs more than a filling. These can be in either silver or in the tooth coloured resin that is used for the tooth coloured fillings and are cemented into place.

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It’s not about doing a perfect filling, it’s about making another friend for life.

Dr Jason Tung

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FAQs

How long do composite fillings last?

Due to the variety of benefits with a composite filling these have become the preferred choice when deciding what material to use. With the composite material being stronger and more durable, they should last longer than a metal silver filling.

However, as in most cases, it all depends on the individual and their level of oral hygiene. The correct procedure and proper after care will extend the life of your filling. If the fillings are cared for by regularly brushing and flossing, they should generally last longer. Other dependents are the size of the filling, the filling location and if there is any clenching or grinding of the teeth.

What kind of material are white fillings made from?

White (or tooth coloured) fillings are made from composite resin, which is a very strong and durable material. Because of their colour, composite fillings are much better looking than traditional metal fillings. We are also able to blend composite resin fillings with your existing teeth by matching the colour, texture and translucency, making them much less noticeable than metal fillings.

Do silver or white fillings last longer?

White fillings, which are made from a strong composite resin material are generally stronger than traditional silver fillings. For this reason, composite fillings should typically last longer than metal fillings. The longevity of your composite fillings will depend, however, on your oral hygiene as well as a number of other factors, including the location and size of the fillings, and whether or not you clench or grind your teeth.

When is an onlay or inlay required?

An inlay or onlay is sometimes recommended in cases where half of the tooth surface has decayed, and when the tooth needs more than a filling. Inlays and onlays are available in either silver or the tooth coloured resin that is used for composite fillings.

Why do I need a dental filling?

When you have a cavity or a tooth that has been damaged due to injury or wear, it might be necessary to have a dental filling to restore the structure of the tooth and prevent further decay or harm. In addition to that, getting a filling can help ease any discomfort or sensitivity that you might be experiencing.

What are the advantages of tooth-coloured fillings?

Opting for tooth-coloured fillings can be an excellent choice for repairing your teeth. Unlike traditional silver fillings, they have numerous benefits, such as a more natural and aesthetically pleasing look that seamlessly matches the shade of your teeth. Moreover, during placement, tooth-coloured fillings necessitate less removal of healthy tooth structure and provide a stronger restoration due to their secure bonding to the tooth. Another significant advantage is that they are free of any potentially harmful mercury, which is a common component of silver amalgam fillings. All in all, tooth-coloured fillings are a reliable, safe, and appealing option for dental restorations.

How will the tooth-coloured fillings look in my mouth?

Tooth-coloured fillings are designed to match the natural colour of your teeth, creating a virtually indistinguishable look. Your dentist will select the appropriate shade of composite resin, shape it, and polish it to ensure a natural appearance and feel. Tooth-coloured fillings are a popular choice for repairing decayed or damaged teeth, as they provide a natural look and feel.