White Fillings
What Is White Filling?
Dental fillings are done to treat cavities once they have been removed, to “fill” the damaged area to restore its appearance and functionality. Although initially it was limited to the front teeth due to a lack of durability, the latest advancements in dental technology have formed stronger types of fillings that are now able to support the back teeth. Apart from aesthetic purposes, fillings also help repair tooth damage.
White fillings are the latest alternatives to amalgam fillings, which are made from a combination of metals, resulting in a silver, metallic-colored filling. The difference with white fillings is that they are made from porcelain or composite resin and are capable of matching the color of your teeth.
Patients who prefer white fillings over amalgam do so mostly for aesthetic or cosmetic purposes, as they want their teeth to achieve a more natural-looking appearance. Also, white fillings made from porcelain are considered stronger than amalgam. Composite materials, on the other hand, are thought to be stable, especially when they are reinforced with glass-ceramics to add security and comfort.
What Happens During a White Filling Procedure?
When getting a white filling procedure, initial assessments will be made by your dentist to determine if additional examinations are needed, such as x-rays. These evaluations are needed to ensure that you get the best care and the right treatment for your dental health. After the assessments, white fillings will be placed accordingly in the following steps:
- Local anesthetic: This helps you have a more comfortable experience during the procedure by numbing the area around your tooth or teeth of concern. This will help you feel less pain during the procedure.
- Getting rid of the decayed materials: There are different types of materials used to remove decayed materials from your teeth: a drill, a laser, or an air abrasion instrument. Your dentist will decide which is best suited for the procedure, as it may vary per case. Decayed materials must be removed from your tooth or teeth in order to properly place the fillings. This will also help keep the infection from spreading.
- Final clean up and preparation: The dentist will do a final check to see if the area to be filled is clean from excessive materials and other bacteria that may have been left out. If the decay is located in close proximity to the root, a protective liner for the nerve might be placed, which is made from various materials, such as composite resin or glass ionomer.
- Placing the filling and polishing: Finally, after careful preparation, the fillings will be placed in. The dentist will use a special light to bond and “cure” each layer. Then, your dentist will apply resin to strengthen the bond. Lastly, your dentist will polish your teeth to get the shape you want and make them look natural.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth and Fillings After the Procedure?
The white filling procedure is safe and pain-free, but patients can sometimes experience post-procedure discomfort, especially after the anesthetics wear off. Usual treatments for this include over-the-counter painkillers, but it’s best to consult your doctor about these concerns. If you notice any discrepancies in your teeth after the procedure, it would be best to make an appointment with your dentist as well for further corrections and treatment.
Taking care of your fillings requires constant attention to good oral hygiene in order for them to be preserved properly. You need to brush and floss your teeth every day, use mouthwash to get rid of bacteria and go to the dentist every six months to keep your fillings strong and effective.
How Much Does a White Filling Procedure Cost in Ontario?
There are several factors affecting the cost of a white filling procedure, such as the type of filling you’re going to need, equipment, location of the teeth, the severity of the decay, and insurance considerations. But usually white filling in Ontario ranges from $200 to $500 per tooth. For a clear and accurate quotation for this procedure, you can reach us here and we can arrange the best options for you.
What Are the Types of White Fillings?
There are two types of materials available as options for a white filling procedure. These include:
Glass Ionomer
These materials are considered to be durable with the input of fluoride. Also, they are easier to place in as they don’t need to be put in by layers. Lastly, most procedures done with these materials are only done in a single appointment.
Porcelain
Porcelain is the most common material used by dentists and has the best function when mixed with metal. These are more materials and can change the colour of your teeth. They are considered to be stronger than amalgam. Fillings made of porcelain materials may also require two visits to the dentist to be done.
What Are Porcelain Inlays and Onlays, and How Long Do They Last??
Porcelain inlays and onlays are other alternatives to fillings. They are used to substitute for decayed tooth tissue while maintaining the roots. Inlays are used to fill in the grooves of your teeth without extending over the cusps. Onlays, however, are used to fill in larger cavities, extending over the cusps of your teeth but not entirely treating the entire tooth surface. They are also alternatives to dental crowns, as they require less tooth extraction during the preparation for the procedure. If taken care of properly, inlays and onlays can last for up to 20 or 30 years.
FAQs
1. What is amalgam-free filling?
Amalgam-free fillings, tooth-colored fillings, composite fillings are other terms for white fillings.
2. How are white fillings different from other fillings?
White fillings, or tooth-colored fillings, are often chosen by patients for aesthetic purposes, as they take the color of your teeth, leaving the treated area almost unnoticeable, as compared to amalgam or silver fillings.
3. Is the procedure for white fillings painful?
You will be given a local anesthetic during the procedure to numb the area and make your experience more comfortable. You can experience discomfort after the procedure, just like any other one. These can be treated with over-the-counter medication, but it would be better if you consulted with your dentist first.
4. Are white fillings still breakable?
Yes, all dental fillings are still subject to damage, especially when the teeth are used excessively and if they are not cared for properly. To avoid this, it’s best to keep good oral hygiene and go to the dentist on a regular basis.
5. Are fillings and dental crowns the same?
While both are mostly used for cosmetic reasons, fillings, such as inlays and onlays, and dental crowns, are different treatments, especially when it comes to the tooth area that is covered for treatment.
Natural Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings in North York
If you are in need of treatments such as a white filling procedure, feel free to reach out to us here and we’ll gladly offer our pristine dental services from our team of esteemed oral care experts. We look forward to serving you!
