While amalgam fillings are the most durable and affordable solution to a damaged tooth, they aren’t the most appealing. Because of this, we also offer composite fillings that can be fitted to appear exactly like a natural tooth.
We can replace amalgam fillings with composite, natural-looking fillings.
What are composite fillings?
Composite (or white) fillings are a natural-looking alternative to more obvious amalgam fillings. This is because they are made from tooth-coloured resin, a mixture of plastic and glass that blends beautifully with your teeth.
They support the structure of a damaged tooth, helping to prevent further breakage or sensitivity, and can be placed in the front or back teeth.
- They blend in beautifully with your natural teeth
- Modern materials make them a durable choice
- Less of the tooth needs to be removed before placement of the filling
- They can restore decayed, chipped, worn or broken teeth
- The area to be treated is numbed with a local anaesthetic, and the decayed part of the tooth is removed.
- A gel is applied to the tooth, creating tiny holes to allow the composite material to bond effectively.
- The acidic gel is washed away, and the tooth is dried.
- A priming agent is applied to form a strong bond with the composite filling.
- The colour-matched composite shade is then applied in layers and moulded to match the tooth’s shape.
- The resin is hardened with a special bright light and then polished to look like a natural part of the tooth.
Although not considered as long-lasting as amalgam fillings, composite fillings are a far more attractive option. They are now produced from modern materials that offer improved durability, particularly in small cavities. How long they last will depend on the depth of the hole to be filled and its position in the mouth.
To prevent decay around the composite filling, brush at least twice a day and see your dentist for regular check-ups.
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After
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings are a well-established way to repair tooth damage. They offer a highly effective way to restore the structure and functionality of a tooth, particularly the back teeth. This type of filling has been used for over 180 years, so it has been tried and tested on millions of mouths.
Amalgam fillings are the traditional choice, made from a combination of metals, including tin, copper, silver and mercury. Although the inclusion of mercury has attracted some controversy, several scientific studies have concluded that it has no adverse side effects.
- Extremely hard wearing
- Quicker to place than composite fillings
- Less expensive than alternative restorative methods
- The area to be treated is numbed with a local anaesthetic and if needed the decayed part of the tooth removed with special dental tools.
- A base or liner may be placed in the tooth to prevent sensitivity following the procedure.
- The amalgam is mixed and then placed in the tooth. It is tightly compacted to ensure every part of the cavity is filled.
- The amalgam is then shaped to resemble the tooth and, if necessary, it is smoothed down so it feels comfortable.
If looked after properly, amalgam fillings can last for years and are particularly suitable for teeth subjected to wear and tear, such as those at the back of the mouth.
You must not chew or bite down hard for 24 hours to let the material fully set in your mouth. Some sensitivity is normal, but if prolonged for more than seven days OR it worsens, please call us!
