Uncovering The Benefits Of White Fillings

A great looking smile is definitely an asset. It feels a person with confidence and helps them interact more readily in a wide variety of situations. In the past a cavity would have meant an unsightly metal filling which marred the appearance of that beautiful smile but thankfully times have moved on. Nowadays a cosmetic dentist in Clacton can use a composite or tooth white filling to restore the tooth and retain that lovely smile.

cosmetic dentist in ClactonComposite fillings have become so popular that many of our patients are asking to have their old metal or amalgam fillings removed and replaced with tooth coloured fillings to give their smile a total makeover. Composite fillings are made from a mixture of glass and plastic and as well as being used for fillings, the composite can be used for other cosmetic purposes such as reshaping disfigured teeth or changing their colour.

So what are the benefits of white fillings?

  • Enhanced aesthetics – Unlike amalgam or silver coloured fillings, a composite filling looks just like a natural tooth. The colour can be carefully blended to match a person’s own teeth for a seamless finish. This makes white fillings a perfect choice for front teeth where an amalgam filling would look unsightly. In addition, composites can be shaped to closely resemble a natural tooth.
  • Thermal stresses – Amalgam fillings have been shown to expand and contract when subjected to hot and cold food and drinks and this can lead to cracks. Composite fillings have insulating properties which prevent this from happening and offer more protection against destruction caused by exposure to changes in temperature.
  • Support – Composite fillings provide additional support for a tooth that has been weakened by decay since they bond to the tooth. What’s more, less of the tooth structure needs to be removed in preparation for the filling when compared to that required of an amalgam filling. As a dentist in Clacton we always try to preserve as much of the natural tooth material as possible, since we never know when it might be needed in future restorations.
  • Durability – For some while white fillings have been considered less durable than amalgam fillings and were considered unsuitable for back teeth which exert a lot pressure biting and grinding. Thanks to new materials which are comparable to silver fillings, the durability has improved and these days composite fillings are longer lasting and less likely to fracture when used in small to medium size fillings.
  • Versatility – Besides filling cavities, composite material can be used to repair worn down teeth or those that are chipped or broken.

Good as composite fillings are they do have some disadvantages in that they are less durable than amalgam fillings and not a good choice for large cavities. They’re more likely to wear out faster than an amalgam filling and need to be replaced sooner. Depending on a person’s lifestyle they should have a life span of around 5 years. It also needs to be noted that composite fillings will stain over time.

If you’re in need of a filling or considering switching out your amalgam fillings for tooth coloured fillings, then why not come and have a chat with our friendly, knowledgeable dental team at Clacton Dental Care. We’re a cosmetic dentist in Clacton who take the time to listen to your needs and discuss your best options. Call us today on 01255 221001 to book a consultation or visit our website at www.clactondentalcare.co.uk to find out more.

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