Composite "White" fillings

Instead of merely filling a damaged tooth as amalgam (old-fashioned dental technique) does, composite and porcelain correctly applied can actually restore teeth, reinforcing them to their former function, beauty and strength. These materials are more technique sensitive and require special skills. They take longer to place and cost more than amalgam, but are well worth it. We do not do amalgam fillings., but will remove and replace them with tooth-coloured composites.

Composite filling is a dental bonding technique that has been used in cosmetic dentistry for many years and can transform your smile in just a single visit. The process involves the skilful use of dental composite, a mouldable material with a paste-like consistency made from aBIS-GMA, UDMA, TEG DMH, bib-emal (6) resins and fillers. It is a safe and predictable alternative to traditional silver fillings. We also remove old amalgams and replace them with composite fillings.

What is the procedure?

If the procedure requires a local anesthetic (not all bonding procedures do), we will first numb the area by injecting a local anesthetic into the gum area around the tooth. We use topical anesthetic prior to the injections to make the sting less severe. The tooth surface where the composite will be applied is thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris or tartar accumulation, as the composite needs a clean surface to bond to. Once we have selected the correct shade of composite, the tooth is kept dry by surrounding it with cotton rolls or a latex sheet (rubber dam), and then shaped or roughened by the dentist using a special drill. Any decay and defects are also removed prior to placement.

The surface of the tooth is then etched with a special phosphoric-acid-based gel, which provides a better surface for the composite to adhere to. The bonding agent is then applied to the etched tooth surface and exposed to a special light source (curing light), which cures the resin to harden. Now the shape of the tooth is restored using a composite material. The final step involves polishing and buffing the composite to give the desired shape and smooth finish, after placing the composite and curing and ensuring that the bite is comfortable.

What are the disadvantages of composite bonding?

The main drawbacks of bonding are that it doesn't have the strength of other restorative materials such as ceramic or porcelain. New materials will however not stain if placed correctly and if it is well looked after by the patient.

Why not old-fashioned (amalgam) silver fillings?

Amalgam fillings have been used extensively over the past 170 years and still remain a contentious issue. The majority of dental associations around the world maintain that they are safe to use. However, there are a growing number of dentists and organisations that are concerned about the negative health implications, as well as the impact on the environment.

Due to the unrelenting controversy about the effect of amalgam fillings on systemic health it is sensible to avoid them, especially as there are such excellent alternative materials available.