How do white fillings work?
White fillings are made of composite resin. This material can be colour-matched to the teeth for a natural appearance. Fillings “fill in” damaged areas of the tooth to give it its original form and function.
People are often conscious of the way their smile looks. Other filling materials can show right away when you smile or laugh. This is where white fillings come in handy. People won’t be able to tell you had your teeth restored because they blend in with your smile.
How are white fillings applied?
The exact steps for applying white fillings vary on a case-by-case basis. But these are the general ones involved in the process:
- Your dentist administers a local anesthetic to numb the area and make the procedure more comfortable.
- The decay is removed, and the tooth is cleaned. The instruments used for this step may make some feel uneasy. Let your dental team know if you feel anxious about the sounds and movements produced by dental instruments.
- The area is prepared for the white-filling application.
- The composite resin is applied in several layers. Each layer is hardened using a special light.
- Once done, the filling is shaped and polished for a natural-looking finish.
- The process can take up to one hour, depending on the number of teeth that need fillings and the patient’s comfort level.
At Little Italy Dentistry, we start with an initial consultation to learn more about your oral health needs. We make plans with you so you can receive the treatment you need with ease.
Are white fillings safe?
White fillings are safe when applied by a trained dental professional. They’re mercury-free and aesthetically pleasing.
Most shy away from silver amalgam fillings, another type of dental filling, because they don’t look natural, and the materials used are temperature-sensitive. Components of silver fillings tend to expand and contract when exposed to changes in temperature.
This can result in harmful bacteria penetrating the area beneath the filling and weakening the natural teeth. The fillings can also get cracked and damaged.
How long do white fillings last?
White fillings can last for 10 years or more with proper care. They don’t require special maintenance, but the natural teeth need care and attention. Regular dental hygiene cleanings, daily brushing and flossing, and avoiding smoking can help your fillings last a long time.
Why should I consider getting white fillings in Little Italy, Toronto, ON
Composite resin fillings or white fillings preserve more of the natural tooth structure. The remaining natural tooth is left intact after the tooth preparation. The materials used for the fillings are also durable.
Most of us will need a dental filling at some point. We’re excited to show you how white fillings have improved our patients’ smiles and can enhance yours, too. Let’s find out if they’re a suitable method for fixing your tooth or teeth.
