Composite fillings (white fillings) offer the most affordable solution to cavities developing in teeth – we can provide a reliable and high-quality filling to patients requiring them. Most people get at least several cavities over the course of their lives. The result of plaque build-up and the presence of different forms of bacteria, cavities can bring about the total destruction of a tooth if not repaired. We at Rockcliffe Dental offer highly effective and long-lasting white fillings.
What are White Fillings in Ottawa?
Historically, fillings were made of gold or silver-colored amalgam due to the material durability. Even though gold and amalgam are functionally efficient, they do not blend well with the surrounding teeth. Aesthetically, they are far from perfect.
The good news is that with technological advancements, new materials and dental techniques were developed. Now, we have access to composite resin materials, which offer comparable life expectancy and durability as traditional gold or amalgam materials.
The important difference is that composite materials can be tinted in order to match natural teeth and create seamless dental solutions.
If you currently have a gold or amalgam silver filling that you would like to replace to create a natural, all-white smile, ask your dentist at Rockcliffe Dental & Denture Centre about the options available to you.
Composite Fillings Procedure
Composite fillings comprise of plastic or glass particles, match your existing tooth colour, and firmly bond with the affected tooth to last for several years with regular brushing and dental care. First, we apply an anaesthetic (“freezing” in this instance) to the affected area, followed by a drilling of the cavity. Then, we remove unwanted tooth fragments and sterilize the area. Then, a bonding solution is carefully applied, followed by the composite filling itself. By applying a high-intensity blue light, the filling is hardened and afterwards checked to ensure it matches your bite.
Tooth-Coloured Filling Alternatives
When it comes to tooth-coloured fillings, there are several materials that can be used. Each of these materials has its own pros and cons, and a professional opinion of your dentist will help you determine which one works best in your case.
1. Composite Fillings
Composite tooth-colored fillings are often called white or plastic fillings. Whether this type of filling will be right for you depends on which tooth in your mouth requires restoration. Our back teeth experience the most pressure when we bite, so white fillings are not the best choice for molars, and your dentist will offer you other options.
In order to place the filling, the dentist will remove all decay from the tooth and put some bonding material inside the hole. Then, the composite resin is placed into the restoration site in thin layers. With each layer, the dentist holds special light over the tooth to help it harden.
Finally, when the last layer of the filling is hard, your dentist will shape the filling to make it look realistic.
Advantages of Composite Fillings
- White fillings are the same colour as your natural teeth.
- They are more affordable than gold fillings.
- The filling can be completed in a single appointment.
Disadvantages of Composite Fillings
- Composite fillings can break more easily than gold or amalgam fillings.
- White fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings.
- There is a higher chance of recurrent decay, as compared to amalgam and gold fillings.
2. Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain materials are most often used by dentists. These types of fillings are brittle, but hard. Combined with metal, this material can be used to create a durable, tooth-coloured crown.
Dental porcelain is produced in a dental laboratory. It is a good choice to be used anywhere in the mouth, unless you have a severe clenching or tooth grinding habit.
Advantages of Porcelain Fillings
- These fillings are long-lasting.
- Porcelain fillings are the same colour as natural teeth.
Disadvantages of Porcelain Fillings
- Many times, two appointments are required.
- Ceramic fillings can break for teeth that bite down hard, such as molars.
- Porcelain fillings cost more than other types of fillings.
3. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer materials are used for teeth that do not bite down hard. These are relatively new materials, and research is underway to determine how long this type of filling can last.
Advantages of Glass Ionomer Fillings
- These fillings are the same colour as natural teeth.
- They are easier to put in than composite fillings, as they don’t have to be put layer by layer.
- They can be completed in a single appointment.
- These fillings contain fluoride, which prevents recurrent decay in the tooth.
- Glass ionomer fillings cost less than gold fillings.
Disadvantages of Glass Ionomer Fillings
- They will not last as long as other fillings.
- These fillings cost more than amalgam fillings.
Composite Fillings Ottawa: Before and After
Composite fillings are successfully used for cosmetic dentistry purposes. Here are some real composite fillings front teeth before and after photos taken by our specialists:
Composite Fillings FAQ’s
Most composite fillings last for at least 5 years.
While composite fillings are not quite as strong as traditional amalgam fillings, they are still relatively durable and can last for many years.
Composite resin fillings are strong, but not as strong as other types of fillings. Therefore, they are not usually used on the molars, which experience a lot of pressure from
chewing.
White (composite) fillings do NOT contain mercury or any metal at all. They are made from a mixture of tooth-coloured plastic and glass.
Contact Rockcliffe Dental Today!
Our team’s collective years of experience have resulted in thousands of white fillings being carried out by Rockcliffe Dental. We recognize the importance of making patients feel comfortable and at ease while performing this procedure. If you haven’t had a dental check-up in some time or believe you have a cavity, contact us as soon as possible to book an appointment to protect your oral health.
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