From time to time patients may need a dental filling to restore a decayed or fractured tooth. White fillings have become increasingly popular over the years. You can see examples of our White Fillings before & after photos of cases which we have carried out since 2007.
Tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria that are found in plaque. These acids occur after eating and drinking and can break down the enamel and dentine of the teeth.
Early tooth decay can be treated by following a good oral hygiene routine and attending 6-month check-ups with the dentist. Moderate tooth decay will usually need a filling. Very advanced tooth decay will possibly need a root canal treatment.
For our white composite fillings, we use the Isovac® technology from USA. The Isovac system protects your tongue and cheek from excess water during treatment as well as preventing debris from old fillings from going down your throat. By isolating your teeth and protecting you, we can reduce treatment time and offer improved, longer-lasting results. Tooth fillings require a very dry environment to provide optimal results, and the Isovac® system can perform this perfectly for our patients.
At Pearl dental clinic we warm up our white composite fillings to 55 degrees which makes them much more flowable and results in less voids developing in the white filling which causes much less postoperative tooth sensitivity for the patient.
After the cavity preparation is completed, we also use the advanced aquacare air abrasion unit which uses high pressure Aluminium Oxide air abrasion with water coolant to clean out the cavity completely of any bacteria and debris. By removing the bacterial biofilm, air abrasion creates a very strong mechanical bond between the tooth and the white filling and greatly reduces the risk of the filling debonding in future.
In the immediate period after a filling is carried out, that side of the mouth may be very numb. It is advisable not to use the tongue and lip on that side of the mouth too much until the numbness has stopped.
Daily Flossing and brushing of the tooth and filling are essential to prevent bacterial accumulation around the filling margins which can lead to bacterial leakage.
Sometimes sensitivity can occur after a tooth coloured filling is carried out. This usually settles down shortly afterward. Tooth coloured fillings can also stain, debond, chip, or fracture over time. Their average lifespan is around 5 years.
White fillings bond to the tooth tissue and look more natural. Silver fillings do not bond to tooth tissue or look natural.
Silver amalgam fillings contain mercury and mercury is a toxic substance. The World Health Organization has recommended that human exposure to mercury should be reduced. Although the exact health risks of silver fillings remain unproven, some patients prefer not to have any silver fillings at all.
White fillings are more technically demanding than silver fillings, they require more surgery time, and usually cost more.
With good aftercare and maintenance, white fillings should last for many years. Studies show that the average lifespan of fillings is around 5 years and Inlays or Onlays last on average from 7-10 years.
White fillings range in cost from £100-£295 depending on complexity. At Pearl dental clinic, we also provide a same day service for patients who need dental fillings done urgently.
Pearl Dental Clinic is open 7 days a week from 9am to 10pm. You can book a consultation appointment by calling us on 0208 547 9997 or by emailing us or book an appointment online (available 24 hours/day).
