White Fillings in Hertfordshire
When it comes to fixing cavities, gone are the days when metal fillings were your only option.
At Elegance Dental Hertfordshire, we offer tooth-coloured fillings that repair decay while keeping your smile looking completely natural.
What exactly are white fillings?
White fillings (sometimes called composite fillings) are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles that match your natural tooth colour. Unlike the traditional metal fillings, these blend seamlessly with your teeth, making them virtually invisible when you talk or smile.
The composite material bonds directly to your tooth structure, which provides additional strength while requiring less removal of healthy tooth tissue compared to amalgam fillings.
Our Hertfordshire patients often comment that even they can't tell which teeth have been filled after treatment – that's how natural these modern fillings look. We meticulously match the shade to your existing teeth and carefully sculpt the material to recreate the natural contours and translucency of tooth enamel.
How do white fillings compare to silver amalgam fillings?
The most obvious difference is appearance. White fillings match your tooth colour, while amalgam fillings are silver-grey and quite noticeable. But there are other differences too. White fillings bond directly to your tooth, requiring less drilling and preserving more healthy tooth structure.
Recent surveys show that over 80% of dental patients now prefer tooth-coloured options when given the choice. Here in Hertfordshire, we've noticed this trend too, with many patients requesting white fillings for both front and back teeth.
Are white fillings right for every situation?
White fillings work brilliantly for small to medium-sized cavities. For larger areas of decay, especially in back teeth that bear heavy chewing forces, other options like inlays or onlays might be more appropriate.
During your consultation at our Hertfordshire clinic, we'll assess your specific needs and recommend the best solution for long-term dental health and appearance.
Why choose Elegance Dental for white fillings in Hertfordshire?
Our Hertfordshire practice takes pride in creating fillings that are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. We take time to match the colour perfectly and shape each filling to fit your natural bite.
We've helped countless Hertfordshire residents restore their teeth with natural-looking white fillings. Whether you need a new filling or want to replace an old metal one, our skilled team will provide treatment that's gentle, thorough, and focused on your comfort.
Contact Elegance Dental Hertfordshire today to learn more about white fillings and how they can repair your teeth while keeping your smile looking completely natural.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are white fillings more expensive than amalgam?
White fillings typically cost somewhat more than silver ones, reflecting the quality of materials and technique required. Many of our Hertfordshire patients feel the aesthetic benefits are well worth the modest additional investment.
Can my old metal fillings be replaced with white ones?
Absolutely. Many of our Hertfordshire patients choose to gradually replace their visible metal fillings with white alternatives, especially those in smile-line teeth. This not only improves appearance but also gives us an opportunity to check for any decay beneath old fillings.
Will it hurt to get a white filling?
Most patients at our Hertfordshire practice find the procedure very comfortable. We use effective local anaesthetic, and the treatment itself is usually quick and straightforward. Many people are surprised by how painless the experience is.
How soon can I eat after getting a white filling?
Unlike amalgam fillings, white fillings are fully hardened before you leave our Hertfordshire clinic. This means you can eat and drink straight away, though we recommend waiting until any numbness wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Do white fillings contain mercury?
No, white composite fillings are completely mercury-free. This makes them an excellent choice for patients with concerns about mercury in dental materials. Our Hertfordshire practice uses only high-quality, biocompatible composites that meet strict safety standards.
How do I care for my white fillings?
Looking after white fillings is no different from caring for your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups at our Hertfordshire practice will help maintain both your fillings and overall dental health.
Avoiding habits like chewing ice or using teeth as tools will help your fillings last longer. If you grind your teeth at night, we might recommend a night guard to protect both your natural teeth and your fillings.
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Will my white fillings last as long as metal ones?
Today's white fillings are remarkably durable. While early versions weren't suitable for high-pressure areas like back teeth, modern materials have improved significantly. A study in the British Dental Journal found that contemporary white fillings can last 7-10 years with proper care.
At our Hertfordshire practice, we use the latest generation of composite materials designed to withstand years of chewing and temperature changes. Many of our patients find their white fillings serve them well for a decade or more.
What happens when I get a white filling?
The process is straightforward and comfortable. First, we gently remove the decayed portion of your tooth. Then we clean the area thoroughly before applying the composite material in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light before the next is added.
This layering technique allows us to build up the tooth structure precisely and create a strong, durable restoration that's less likely to leak or fail over time.
Finally, we shape and polish the filling to match your natural tooth contours. We pay special attention to your bite relationship to ensure the filling feels comfortable when you chew.
The entire procedure typically takes just one visit to our Hertfordshire practice, and you can eat normally right afterwards.