Composite White Fillings (Amalgam Free)

There is a growing concern about the safety of mercury (silver/black) fillings known as amalgam.  With today’s technology, white fillings are replacing amalgam fillings.  Composite fillings have excellent durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-mid size restorations that need to withstand moderate biting and chewing pressure.

Composite fillings consist of acrylic resin and finely ground glass-like particles mixed to a paste consistency to produce a tooth-coloured restoration which is then moulded to the shape of the tooth, so you can retain your natural looking smile.  A substantial benefit of choosing a white filling restoration is that composite fillings require less natural tooth structure to be removed when preparing your tooth, thus enabling a smaller filling than if an amalgam filling were placed.

The procedure for receiving a composite resin filling is very similar to that for an amalgam filling and although they take a little longer, they can still be completed in a single appointment.  Previously composite fillings could only be placed on front teeth where the biting force is lighter; through the development of new materials and techniques, composites are now able to be successfully placed on both front and back teeth.

The tooth is prepared by removing all the decay and then treated with a special solution to make the surface slightly rough, which will ensure a stronger bond between the composite material and enamel is achieved.

The composite filling is placed in thin layers and sculpted to the form and shape required; a specially developed curing light hardens each layer before the next one is applied.  Once the desired shape is achieved, it is polished to a tooth-like lustre.

Temperature changes that occur through the consumption of hot and cold foods and drinks can cause amalgam fillings to expand and contract, this can cause further fracturing and breakage of the restored tooth and tooth sensitivity, the filling may even become loose, lost or digested.  A composite filling can help to insulate the tooth from temperature change.

As the procedure for a composite filling is more involved and time consuming, they are often a more expensive treatment option than an amalgam filling, however, their longevity and the likelihood of needing future restorative treatment to an amalgam-filled tooth usually offsets the increased initial cost.

For further information regarding white composite resin fillings and how they can rejuvenate your smile, schedule an assessment appointment with one of our friendly and highly trained team members at Dental Clinique.