Our bodies can be quite amazing when it comes to the ability to repair injured structures. When we break our bones for example, our body is able to create new cells which heal the bone back together. But sadly with our teeth this doesn’t happen, damage that occurs to a tooth can’t be “healed” back to normal. We’re not quite there with the technology of being able to heal teeth via treatment. Once a hole (cavity) forms in a tooth, it can only get worse until the tooth has to be removed. However, what we can do is clean the tooth and fill the cavity with a tooth-like substance called a dental filling to prevent cavities getting worse.
Fillings are quite amazing for your teeth, they can restore a damaged tooth back to its normal shape in a simple and effective manner. There are a variety of different materials that can be used as dental fillings, where the most common ones are White Fillings (composite) and silver fillings (amalgam).
What are White Fillings?
White (composite) fillings are made out of powdered glass and ceramic added to a resin base, which comes out to a shade of white which matches your teeth. These blend in with your smile seamlessly, so you hardly know they are even there. Silver (amalgam) fillings however look quite metallic and can be noticeable when you smile, resulting in patients wanting to hide their smile away.
Now amalgam fillings are actually stronger and more durable, but technology is starting to catch up and we’re now getting some great composite materials that compete in this area. However amalgam fillings contain mercury, even though this leaks into the body at a smaller concentration that it would if you were eating fish, it can be off putting to some patients.
Whether you think a filling is needed or which type, it’s to best to leave it to a dentist such as Dr Merali who will be able to advise you on the right treatment. Dr Merali has had extensive training in carrying out white fillings and has successfully placed thousands in his time as a dentist.
What are the benefits of White Fillings?
If you have metallic amalgam fillings they can be quite visible when you smile or laugh, even resulting in anxiety preventing patients from wanting to expose too much of their mouths.
Amalgam fillings are created in a shade that matches your teeth, blending in seamlessly and looking just like your normal tooth.
Fillings can be done on the same day you visit a dentist, unlike more time consuming dental treatments such as dental implants and veneers.
Most fillings will be carried out during your regular dental checkup, where your dentist will want to prevent any further damage or decay occurring on your teeth. Some fillings are so simple that they don’t require any numbing injections.
White fillings themselves are incredibly affordable, and you can even get them for free if you’re signed up to Denplan.
If you leave a tooth cavity to decay further, resulting in a tooth having to be removed, then things can get much more expensive. Tooth replacement is one of the most expensive areas of cosmetic dentistry, so it’s is important to prevent this occurring, not just for your oral health but also your wallet.
How much do white fillings cost?
White fillings start from £85 at Benson Dental. Pricing depends on the size, shape and quantity of the fillings required. You can view our dental price list here.
What are the alternatives of White Fillings?
If you require a filling but do not attend to the tooth, its quite possible for the cavity to develop further and cause severe pain and discomfort. Decay and progress and the tooth could require root canal treatment or even have to be extracted.
It is much better to prevent further dental complications with fillings, as the only alternative would be tooth replacement such as dental implants in the future.
Book an appointment by calling us on 01384637835, sending us a WhatsApp message or emailing us at info@bensondental.co.uk
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I have been coming to this dentist for years. I am very happy with my treatment I do not want to go anywhere else. They are calm and friendly and really make you feel at ease.
