White Restoration: The Perfect Dental Filling to Fix That Chip

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Cavity removal leaves an unsightly gap in the teeth. Come to Caroline Springs to fix that with white restoration.

What is White Restoration?

White restoration refers to the procedure of filling in the gaps that cavity removal leaves behind. Composite filling is an amalgam of quartz or silica (glass) and acrylic. This is a relatively newer dental filling. It is long-lasting and looks very similar to natural teeth.

White restoration helps keep the tooth from further decaying and exposing the nerves underneath. Basically, if you have had a large cavity removal or a broken/cracked tooth, white restoration will be of help. It is very convenient; not just for its aesthetics but also because it reduces tooth sensitivity and doesn’t expand like metal fillings.

Who Should Get Composite Fillings?

The white restoration procedure is advisable for anyone with significant tooth damage. Your dentist will prescribe a composite filling if:

    • You have damaged tooth from an injury
    • You are showing early signs of decay
    • Your teeth have been decaying for some time
    • Your teeth are becoming or is sensitive, even without obvious decay

Keep in mind that although white restoration is a relatively routine procedure, you must undergo it only upon the advice of a dentist.

What are the Benefits of White Restoration?

Composite fillings are becoming very popular, and with good reason. Here’s why.

It’s less invasive
White restoration is a lot less invasive than other dental fillings. It requires a lot lighter drilling, thus keeping the tooth from becoming weaker and more prone to breakage.

It makes the tooth stronger
The composite material binds with the natural tooth, resulting in a protective barrier. It also does not expand, thus providing additional support to the tooth’s natural integrity.

It blends in with natural teeth
Composite fillings mimic natural teeth, so they are available in multiple natural shades. They have a shine that is remarkably close to the teeth’s enamel. Plus, they age in a similar fashion to teeth, thus blending in with the natural dentures.

It reduces sensitivity
Composite fillings create a protective barrier around the teeth. They fill up the gaps left behind by cavity removal, thus preventing further decay and protecting the nerves. Since the teeth becomes bonded with the filling, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures are reduced.

It’s repairable
Composite fillings last a long time. However, in case they become chipped, it’s easy to repair them. No further drilling is required; the dentist will only clear out the debris and apply the composite.

It’s a quick procedure
White restoration is a very quick procedure. It takes very little time to apply the composite, which sets very fast too. It’s a faster process than other kinds of fillings from start to finish.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

A typical white restoration procedure takes about 20-30 minutes. The actual time will depend on the condition of your teeth. You might also need to come back more than once in case the damage is extensive and you need inlays and outlays.

      • You will be asked to choose the colour of the filling. Pick a shade closest in appearance to your natural teeth.
      • The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic in order to ensure you feel no pain while drilling.
      • The decayed or broken part will be drilled away until none remains.
      • Post sterilization of the drilled area, the dentist will apply the composite filling to the tooth,finally polishing it once it’s shaped and set.

Please note, there are risks to every dental procedure. Please discuss existing health conditions with
your dentists. You should also take a second opinion from another practitioner.

FAQs

How long will my composite filling last?

Composite fillings have a long lifespan. With good care, they can last for 5-10 years. Even if they are accidentally damaged or have been worn down, the dentist only needs to replace the chipped part and set it. In fact, you should revisit the dentist every time there’s a chip, as repairing costs less than replacing the whole filling.

Can the composite filling come off accidentally?

The white restoration process is very swift. The composite material takes very little time to set and bond with your tooth. It also binds very well with the enamel, which makes it very unlikely that it will come off. However, it will undergo regular wear and tear with time.

Is white restoration healthy in the long run?

Composite fillings are the safest of all dental fillings, along with porcelain fillings. There is no chance of any reaction with digestive enzymes and foods, which can be a concern with metal fillings. Metal
amalgams also leach out mercury into the bloodstream, which can ultimately lead to mercury poisoning. There are no such elements in composite fillings.

Can a child get white restoration?

Children are highly susceptible to cavities and dental injuries. Since the white restoration procedure is relatively painless and quick to heal, it is a good option for repairing teeth in children. Plus, the material is non-toxic, so children can safely go about without compromising their immune system.