White Resin Fillings

As dental treatments have evolved, so have dental fillings. Where gold and silver amalgam fillings were once the go-to for the vast majority of teeth filling procedures, white fillings have become the most popular choice amongst patients needing teeth fillings.   

The exciting development of quality white resin filling materials has given patients more control over their dental fillings. Patients feel more comfortable with the natural look of white fillings, and they have been proven to be safer and longer-lasting compared to amalgam fillings. 

At The Park Practice dental clinic in Glasgow, we use market-leading composite resin materials to restore our patients’ teeth to the highest possible standard. Patients of The Park Practice have been impressed with the natural look and feel of white fillings, and it has gradually become an integral part of the dental restoration work we offer at the Practice.  

To find out more about our white filling treatment, contact The Park Practice on 0141 334 1211 or email our dental clinic directly.

Why choose white fillings over amalgam fillings? 

Fillings are very common in British adults. Most people tend to have at least one filling of one sort or another, but even so, no one wants their dental filling to be noticeable when speaking, eating or talking with others.  

The main attraction of white fillings, also known as composite fillings, is that they use natural-looking composite resin to blend in with the rest of your teeth, making the filling barely detectable in the mouth. Even white fillings on front teeth look perfectly natural and help give your teeth a stronger and healthier look.  

Unlike amalgam fillings, white composite fillings allow a higher proportion of your natural tooth to be preserved. This is due to the seamless bonding that happens when a composite white filling is fitted. 

Often, patients with pre-existing amalgam metal fillings find that their fillings fail or gradually weaken over time. These old metal fillings can be removed, and the tooth can be restored with quality white resin fillings, giving patients a more natural and healthier looking smile. 

Composite fillings are also considered a safer alternative to traditional amalgam fillings. The Oral Health Foundation has some helpful advice on replacing amalgam fillings with a new white filling.  

Molars with old amalgams changed for resins

What are the benefits of white fillings? 

Having a filling is never fun. Generally, it means that your teeth have undergone some sort of harm due to poor oral health, an unhealthy diet or accidental damage. White fillings help give a natural-looking fix to the problem whilst boosting strength in the damaged area.  

The main benefits of white fillings are: 

• More natural appearance of the teeth 
• Composite fillings bond with the tooth to give a more stable structure 
• Reduce the chance of further breakage or harm 
• Improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile 
• Can be used to repair cracked cusps on back teeth or chipped edges on front teeth. 
• Protects the tooth from the effects of plaque build-up. 
• White filling materials are easier to clean 
• Safe and completely risk-free 
• Mouths feel healthier 

The Park Practice has fitted many teeth fillings over the years. Our patients have complimented the positive effect of white fillings, saying that their mouths feel stronger and healthier with white fillings (restorations).

Patients often talk of having confidence restored in their appearance after having white resin fillings placed.  

Are there any disadvantages to white composite fillings? 

There are very few disadvantages to white fillings. If you are in need of a filling, a white composite filling is definitely the best option on the dental market today.  

Patients may experience some postoperative sensitivity due to the depth of the decay or old filling being replaced. Composite fillings can sometimes wear out quicker compared to amalgam fillings, but this depends on the size of the area being treated, the oral hygiene practised by the patient and the heaviness of a patient’s bite.  

In general, however, modern resins tend to be very resilient and last just as long as traditional metal fillings. 

Chipped front teeth before and after restoration

What is a white filling made of? 

At The Park Practice, our dental team uses the highest quality composite materials to create bespoke white fillings that fit to your mouth and colour of teeth.  

To match the colour of your existing teeth, a simple but effective mix of acrylic resin and powdered glass is used. This resin mixture allows the white filling to bond effortlessly with the damaged tooth or teeth, giving a subtle look that is barely noticeable even when applied to the front teeth.  

We then use a UV light to harden the composite material, ensure it is strong and properly bonded with the natural tooth. When applied properly, composite resins provide improved strength and reduced chance of breakage 

After this process is complete, our dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The dentist will then apply a light but firm polish to the composite to prevent staining and early wear 

Through this white filling bonding procedure, our dentists can restore up to 90% of the tooth’s natural strength.  

Do white fillings contain mercury? 

A common question we get asked by patients is, “Do white fillings contain mercury?”. Unlike metal amalgam fillings, white fillings do not contain mercury.  

This is one of the many advantages of white fillings, as mercury can be an extremely harmful substance if it enters the body in too large a quantity.  

White fillings are generally considered the safest type of dental filling on the market today and are a more modern alternative to silver amalgam fillings. 

How long do white fillings last? 

Like most dental restoration work, the length of time your white filling will last will depend on the individual. Continued good oral hygiene plays a huge part in the life expectancy of a white filling, or any type of teeth filling for that matter. 

With a proper level of oral hygiene, you can expect your white fillings to last up to ten years. However, by following some simple tips you can increase the time.  

For long-lasting white fillings, The Park Practice recommends: 

• Attend regular dental check-ups (once every 6 months) 
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day 
• Floss daily  
• Practice good oral hygiene  
• Avoid overly sweet or sugary foods  
• Attend a dental appointment immediately if you experience any pain, discomfort or loosing of the white filling 

How much does a white filling cost? 

Prices of white fillings vary depending on the specific tooth and the size of the area involved. Your dentist will need to assess the filling before any work is carried out. After your assessment, your dentist will provide you with a more accurate cost for a white filling.

In general, expect to pay anywhere between £60 to £120 for a single white composite filling. 

Get in touch  

If you are interested in teeth filling treatment of any kind, our friendly team will be happy to answer all of your questions and book you in for an initial dental assessment. 

For white fillings Glasgow, or for any other type of restorative dental work, contact our dental practice today.