White Fillings
In the past the choice of filling materials was limited and the quality was not anywhere near to what is available today. Mercury amalgam fillings were the treatment of choice when it came to filling a tooth damaged by decay. These large gray fillings did not meet the aesthetic demands of patients and have an unsatisfactory appearance.
In this new age of dentistry, white fillings can beautifully meet the high expectations when it comes to beauty and aesthetics. The natural appearance, shape, size and color of a tooth can be easily restored to perfection. Closing gaps and restoring minimally chipped teeth can be easily achieved.
What are the fillings made of?
I am asked many times during treatment: “Doctor, what is the white filling made out of?” My answer is quartz, ceramic particles, powdered glass and silica bound with a resin base. The shade or the color of the filling material will be determined by your dentist. After the decay has been removed, the empty space is filled in with white filling material to restore the damaged tooth to functionality.
What are the advantages of tooth colored fillings?
1. White fillings resemble as closely as possible the shape and the color of the original tooth structure.
2. Unlike amalgam which relies solely on mechanical retention, white fillings are chemically bonded to the tooth structure. Therefore they are stronger and the risk of tooth fracture is less compared to a tooth that is restored with a metal filling.
3. With white fillings, tooth sensitivity is reduced to a minimum.
4. White fillings can be used for both front and back teeth without diminishing the aesthetics. In case white fillings are damaged or discolored they can be easily replaced.