Are white fillings healthy?

June 17, 2022

Are white fillings healthy? What a good question!

When we experience tooth decay or cavities, we often have a tooth filling. This filling helps to protect the site of decay from becoming any worse and prevents any sensitivity or pain. Fillings are typically for patients that have localized sites of tooth decay rather than a deteriorated tooth that may require a dental crown (a cap placed over the tooth to protect the remaining natural tooth.)

So what is a white filling?

A white filling is a favourable alternative to the traditional, silver amalgam filling. A white filling is a perfectly healthy option and to be honest, they have a lot of benefits over amalgam fillings. White fillings are made by your dentist by sculpting a composite material to cover the tooth decay once cleared. While white fillings are more expensive, and typically considered a private procedure rather than one often received on the NHS, they’re recommended by most dentists. Many people are replacing their silver fillings with white fillings due to their longevity and aesthetic benefits, but we’ll get to why white fillings may be a better option for you a little later.

What are amalgam fillings?

Just the same as white fillings, amalgam fillings are used to fill decay or cavities in your teeth. They’re typically offered as an NHS treatment, and therefore many people opt for them. Amalgam fillings have been used for plenty of years and they are very useful. Whilst they are generally referred to as silver fillings, they are actually made of elemental mercury, with a mixture of other powdered metals typically including silver, copper and tin.

So if you find yourself thinking I need a filling, which should you opt for?
Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of each type of filling, so you can consider which may suit you best.

Benefits of white fillings:

They’re colour matched to your teeth and discrete, meaning you can smile with your mouth wide open.

They require much more conservative preparation in comparison to amalgam fillings and preserve more of the existing tooth.

They typically last up to around 10 years, and therefore boast good longevity.

Benefits of amalgam fillings:

Amalgam can be useful in severe cases of tooth decay

They are long-lasting at around 10-15 years.

Good for the back teeth that need to withstand the constant impact of chewing.

They are cost-effective.

So with that in mind, which is our favourite? White fillings. They are becoming more and more popular because although they are more expensive, they boast a discrete result, and also provide longevity and durability. They preserve the natural tooth well without intrusive preparation.

If you are considering replacing fillings from amalgam to white, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed! But speak to your dentist to ensure that you are making the right decision for yourself and your oral health.