White Dental / Composite Fillings in Lara
What are White Dental Fillings?
A white dental filling is a treatment performed for teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. White fillings help to restore the tooth back to its normal shape, size and function whilst at the same time preventing further decay.
In most cases, white fillings are made of composite material including biocompatible plastics and glass which are made to blend in with the colour of your teeth.
What is the Process for a White Filling
1. Numbing
Before starting the process we will numb the area to ensure the process is comfortable and painless.
2. Removal of Decay or Cracks
High speed dental burs will be used to remove any decay or fractures from the tooth.
3. Filling
The tooth will then be chemically prepared and filled in layers with white filling material to match the shade of your natural tooth.
4. Polishing
Once complete, the final filling will be polished and adjusted to seamlessly fit your bite allowing you to chew and smile with confidence.
How long does it take to place a white filling?
A white filling can generally be placed between 20 to 40 minutes depending on the difficulty of the case, location in the mouth and the size of the filling required. A certain amount of time is required as the process is technique sensitive and our dentists in Lara strive to make sure that we achieve a long-lasting result.
How long does a white filling last?
Studies have shown that composite fillings will last 5-7 years. Larger restorations often have a shorter life span. There are many factors that can influence the lifespan of your white dental filling. Regular maintenance along with excellent at home oral hygiene helps to improve the longevity of the filling and the natural tooth.
What is the cost of a white dental filling?
In general, the cost of fillings range from $150 to $250
The cost of a white dental filling depends on a variety of factors. Some of these include:
Size of the filling
Location of the filling
Advantages of Composite Fillings
The main advantage of a composite filling is that we can choose a shade/colour to match the natural look of your teeth. This means the filling will blend beautifully with your natural tooth.
A white filling is a low cost and quick method to restore your tooth to optimum function. Overtime, they are much safter than metal fillings as they don’t crack teeth.
Composite fillings also bond chemically with your natural healthy tooth which helps to support the remaining tooth structure and prevent breakage.
Disadvantages of Composite Fillings
Although white fillings are an excellent method to restore teeth, they do have some minor draw backs.
- Over a long period of time, white fillings may stain and slightly change colour from its original shade. The extent of change depends on your overall oral hygiene diet and lifestyle habits.
- When compared to crowns or ceramic fillings, white fillings are not as strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
A composite filling can generally be placed between 20 to 40 minutes. A certain amount of time is required as the process is technique sensitive and our dentists in Lara want to make sure we can achieve a long-lasting result.
Placement time can also depend on the size and location of the cavity.
The main advantage of a composite filling is that we can choose a shade/colour to match the natural look of your teeth. This means the filling will blend beautifully with your natural tooth.
Composite fillings also bond chemically with your natural healthy tooth which helps to support the remaining tooth structure and prevent breakage.
Over time, composite fillings may stain and slightly change colour from its original shade. This depends on your overall oral hygiene and diet/lifestyle habits.
In certain rare cases, patients who have composite restorations can experience some post-operative sensitivity. This is often short lived and easily handled with over the counter pain killers.