White Fillings

Do you feel embarrassed to laugh out loud for fear that people may seem those ghastly silver fillings? Or, are you paranoid about the fact that people may get to see those ugly decay stains?

What Are White Fillings?

White fillings are used to hide the exposed root after a root canal treatment.  Not long ago, dentists used silver amalgam fillings made from silver-tin alloy, copper and mercury to cover the decayed tooth. Today, composite resin is used for a more natural looking appearance.

What Are White Fillings Made Of?

White fillings are made of composite resin, a material that’s made from a mixture of glass beads, acrylic plastic, quartz fillers, and colorants. Some fillings are made from true porcelain. They’re more natural in appearance, resistant to wear and tear, and easier to polish. And unlike silver amalgam, they do not lead to tooth cracking.

Are White Fillings An Expensive Option?

White fillings are comparatively cheap, but the cost varies from dentist to dentist. It largely depends on the quality of the white filling used.

How Long Do White Fillings Last?

This largely depends on the type of filling used, the area covered under the filling, position of the tooth, etc. For example, composite fillings are less likely to last long when used to cover a large cavity as compared to a small filling. The patient’s diet and oral hygiene also plays an important part.

When Does White Filling Help?

Ideally, composite resin is used for small fillings. However, dentists do not recommend them for the back teeth. Silver amalgam, albeit inexpensive is a better choice in such situations.