White Fillings (Composite)

Chemical Bonding

Composite fillings use a special bonding process that creates a strong chemical bond between the filling material and your tooth. This bond helps strengthen the tooth and prevents leakage around the edges.

Light Curing

The composite material is hardened using a special blue light that activates the resin. This allows your dentist to work with the material while it's soft and then harden it instantly for a precise fit.

Layered Application

Composite is applied in thin layers, with each layer being cured individually. This technique ensures complete hardening and allows for precise shaping to match your natural tooth anatomy.

1. Tooth Preparation

Your dentist removes decay and prepares the tooth. Composite fillings require less tooth removal than amalgam fillings because they bond to the tooth structure.

2. Isolation

The tooth is kept dry using cotton rolls or a rubber dam. This is essential for the bonding process to work effectively.

3. Acid Etching

A mild acid is applied to create microscopic pores in the tooth surface, which helps the bonding agent adhere strongly to the tooth.

4. Bonding Agent

A special adhesive is applied to create a strong bond between the tooth and the composite material.

5. Composite Placement

The composite material is placed in layers, with each layer being shaped and cured with a blue light before the next layer is added.

6. Finishing and Polishing

The filling is shaped to match your natural tooth anatomy and polished to a smooth, natural-looking finish.

Single Shade Composite

A uniform colour composite that's quick to place and suitable for smaller fillings or areas where perfect colour matching isn't critical.

• • Faster placement time
• • Cost-effective option
• • Good for back teeth
• • Less complex technique

Layered Composite

Multiple shades of composite are used to create a more natural appearance that mimics the varying colours and translucency of natural teeth.

• • Superior aesthetic results
• • Natural colour variation
• • Ideal for front teeth
• • More time-intensive

Flowable Composite

A thinner, more fluid composite that flows into small areas and is often used as a base layer or for very small fillings.

• • Excellent adaptation to tooth
• • Good for small cavities
• • Often used as base layer
• • Requires covering layer

Daily Care

• • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• • Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• • Use mouthwash if recommended by your dentist
• • Maintain good overall oral hygiene

Lifestyle Considerations

• • Avoid excessive consumption of staining foods and drinks
• • Don't use your teeth as tools
• • Consider a night guard if you grind your teeth
• • Regular dental check-ups every 6 months

Longevity Factors

• • Size and location of the filling
• • Quality of oral hygiene
• • Diet and lifestyle habits
• • Regular professional maintenance

What are composite fillings?

Composite fillings are tooth-coloured restorations made from a mixture of plastic resin and fine glass particles. They are matched to your tooth shade and bond directly to tooth structure.

How long do composite fillings last?

Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years with proper care. Their lifespan depends on factors like oral hygiene, diet, and the size and location of the filling.

Are composite fillings better than amalgam?

Composite fillings offer superior aesthetics and bond to teeth, requiring less tooth preparation. However, they may not be as durable as amalgam in high-stress areas like back teeth.

How are composite fillings placed?

The process involves tooth preparation, acid etching, bonding agent application, composite placement in layers, curing with light, and final shaping and polishing.

Do composite fillings require special care?

No special care is required beyond good oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will help maintain the filling and surrounding tooth structure.

How much do composite fillings cost?

NHS composite fillings cost £70.70 (Band 2). Private treatment ranges from £100-£400 depending on the size and complexity of the filling.