White Fillings

What are they?

A filling replaces part of a tooth that has been lost because of decay or accidental damage.

Unlike silver (amalgam) fillings, white fillings stick to teeth so they can be used to repair teeth (especially front teeth), which have been chipped, broken or decayed. They can sometimes be used in back teeth if there is not too much decay or damage.

You will probably hear the dentist talk about 'composite' or 'glass ionomer, these are just different types of white filling.

What will my dentist do?

Your dentist will:

• Normally give you a local anaesthetic to numb the area;

• Remove any decay;

• Remove some or all of an old filling;

• Wash and dry the tooth by blowing water and then air onto it (the dentist will be holding something which looks like a water pistol);

• Put the filling material into or onto the tooth and shape it;

• Harden the filling by pointing a bright light at it, inside your mouth (you will see the dentist and dental nurse protecting their eyes);

• Trim and polish the filling.

What are the benefits?

• White fillings are the same colour as teeth. They come in a range of shades so they can be matched to the colour of your own teeth.

• White fillings are sticky so they can be used to reshape and rebuild broken edges or worn teeth. They can also be used to cover marks (discolouration) if they can't be removed by cleaning.

• A tooth needs less preparation for a white filling than for a silver filling.

Dental materials are often not strong enough for large fillings in back teeth. In those cases a crown may be the only long-term option. Fillings also need dry conditions, which can be difficult to achieve in some situations right at the back of your mouth.