FILLINGS

In the past, cavities could only be treated with unsightly metal fillings that are alloys for silver and mercury. These fillings, especially when close to the front of the mouth, are highly noticeable and unaesthetic. Sometimes, the filling is so large that it causes discolouration of the entire tooth. These fillings (or restorations) often weaken teeth due to the large amount of the original tooth that has to be removed. Also there is a risk of Mercury poisoning that is used in the filling. Modern day research and development has increasingly turned to tooth coloured or composite fillings as a strong, safer and more natural looking alternative. Composite fillings utilise a soft white plastic substance that is hardened with a blue light.

Inlays

Replacing large fillings in back teeth often requires stronger, more precisely contoured restorations. These are called inlays or onlays depending on whether they are being placed inside the tooth or on its outer surface. These restorations need to be custom-made at an off-site dental lab; therefore, two visits may be required. Once the dental office receives the custom inlay or onlay, the patient returns to the dentist’s office, where the restorations are bonded into place.

Onlays

Onlays protect teeth similarly to crowns, but conserve more natural tooth structure. Onlays should provide decades of service. We have restored beauty and function to the teeth of so many of patients through the placement of custom-crafted inlays and onlays.

My old fillings in the front have turned dark, can they be bleached?
If I require fillings, what type should I get?

My old fillings in the front have turned dark, can they be bleached?

Unfortunately, dental bondings, composite resin fillings (tooth coloured fillings) and old crowns cannot be bleached. Fillings that have discoloured indicate that they are either leaking or have secondary decay, so it is best to replace them. A better choice may be to replace them with porcelain laminate/veneers for longer lasting results. Remember; only replace these fillings after bleaching in order to match the new improved color of your teeth. How long does bleaching or laser teeth whitening really last? It depends on many factors including your diet, the original color of your teeth, and your personal habits like smoking, drinking red wine, etc. Also darker teeth will need more than one whitening session to achieve the desired result. What’s most important is what you do for maintenance. Professional office visits are not enough. You must incorporate an effective maintenance regimen at home such as using whitening toothpaste which is specifically designed to non-abrasively remove surf ace stains like coffee, tea, tobacco and red wine, as well as remove plaque and bacteria. Also use the touch up kit given by your dentist to keep bleached teeth at their whitest.

If I require fillings, what type should I get?

In the past, Silver or amalgam fillings were extensively used. They are not tooth coloured, stain teeth over time and healthier tooth structure may have to be removed to retain them since they do not bond to your teeth. Also, since they are an alloy of silver with mercury, there is a risk of mercury poisoning. Now, depending on the extent of decay and amount of tooth structure that is lost, your dentist may advice composite (tooth coloured fillings) or porcelain inlays or onlays. Since tooth coloured fillings bond to your teeth, there is no need for removal of healthy tooth structure.