According to the Oral Health Foundation, around 80 of British adults have at least one filling. On average, every adult has around seven fillings. Fillings are generally used to treat cavities and can help to maintain the tooth and protect it from damage. The decaying tooth material is removed and then replaced with a filling that helps to restore the tooth structure, seal off any gaps and prevent bacteria from damaging your tooth and pulp.
Getting your fillings checked is an important part of your dental check-up. Faulty fillings can lead to the root of your tooth being exposed to bacteria which can be very painful and, if not treated, may lead to the loss of your tooth. Fillings can last a very long time, but people sometimes opt to replace them.
When the time comes to replace your fillings, you may want to think about changing them to white fillings. Tooth-coloured (also called ‘composite’) fillings are very popular for cosmetic reasons as they are less visible than the darker amalgam fillings. However, there are some scenarios where your dentist might advise against replacing your amalgam fillings with composite or white fillings.
The main reason that people choose white fillings is that they look more natural and are less visible than amalgam fillings. For this reason, white fillings will often be used for the teeth that are visible and closer to the front of the mouth.
People often choose to replace their amalgam fillings with white fillings if they are concerned about the mercury content in their fillings. Amalgam fillings are made up of a combination of silver, mercury, tin and copper. Although there is no cause for concern about the mercury content in amalgam fillings, some people prefer to avoid them.
Like amalgam fillings, direct composite fillings can be completed in one visit to the dentist. Your dentist will remove the damaged tooth material, clean the area and then apply a soft composite material to your tooth. This will then be hardened using a special blue light. Composite fillings are very strong if they are placed by an experienced dentist and created using the best quality materials.
Sometimes if a tooth has either had a very large filling or has lots of decay, or if there are moisture control issues, it may not be suitable for a white filling. In this situation, your dentist may recommend an amalgam restoration, an inlay or onlay, or a crown (sometimes referred to as a ‘cap’ instead). Inlays, onlays and crown restorations are prepared in surgery by your dentist. An impression is taken of the prepared tooth and the opposing teeth, and these impressions are sent off and made at a laboratory to fit your tooth perfectly.
If you’d like to discuss the possibility of replacing your amalgam fillings with white fillings, book an appointment with your dentist or dental hygienist today!
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ExcellentBased on 290 reviews
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MALCOLM NAYLOR2024-07-14Fabulous treatment as usualTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Stuart Worsfold2024-07-12I have booked in with gavin and the team to have implants so far it has been a great experience the team took time to explain what was going to happen and I'm looking forwards to getting my implants felt really comfortable and relaxed from the moment I walked in so a big thank you to all at dental implants for making it a great experience so far can't wait to get the implants done on the 15 August will post more once they are doneTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Jackie Slater2024-07-07Been a client for many years. Treatments are always first class and always made to feel extremely comfortable. Would have no hesitation in recommending Gavin and his team.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
San Taberham2024-07-06I have just completed my treatment at dental solutions, with new front crowns and veneers. Lauren was absolutely amazing throughout this whole process. I am so pleased with my new front teeth giving me confidence again to smile. Thank you....Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Michael Sparke2024-05-17Initially I was quite apprehensive about having 2 implants, but upon my consultation with Gavin ., i felt encouraged by his knowledge and advice . The whole experience in a very relaxed atmosphere could not have been any better. I am well impressed by their professionalism and expertise in this Practice and would most certainly give them a Top Class recommendation .Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Kay Burton2024-05-15I just had my implant fitted today, the whole process was painless, I'm so pleased with everything and would highly recommend Dental solutions, the whole team was fabulous 👌Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mike White2024-01-29The best experience. When you step through the door you are met by the friendliest receptionist,Which continues through the practice. If you want the best dental care and treatments across the board this is where you need to go.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Charlotte Bell2023-12-15I came to dental solutions with severe anxiety of dentists and Lauren was so helpful, kind and patient with me. For the first time in years I've found a dentist who I feel comfortable with. Thank youTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Gill S2023-10-27I had a wisdom tooth extracted by Gavin after having toothache due to my tooth breaking. I was nervous as I had not had a tooth removed by injection before. Gavin was reassuring, explained the procedure fully and it was over quickly with no pain. All staff at the practice are caring, friendly and professional and I have been going for many years. I highly recommend Dental Solutions.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
K.WEDGE2023-09-06Thank you to Gavin and team at Dental Solutions for the superb dental work done yesterday. As well as being highly professional and very good at what they do the place has a great atmosphere which makes going to the dentist a pleasure.
