Dental fillings in Enfield, Southgate and North London

Most people have fillings of one sort or another but these days we can choose a natural-looking alternative – the composite or tooth-coloured filling.

Fillings are a quick and simple solution for smaller cavities – and with today’s modern technology, the procedure is no longer something to fear. At Winchmore Hill Dental Practice, we offer patients in Enfield, Southgate and North London composite white fillings – so you’ll never have to worry about the ‘shadowed smile’ effect that traditional metal amalgam fillings create.

Composite fillings are strong, but may not be as hard-wearing as amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are tooth-coloured and are made from powdered glass quartz, silica or other ceramic particles added to a resin base. After the tooth is prepared, the filling is bonded onto the area and a light shone onto it to set it. Your dentist will choose a shade to match your own teeth, although over time staining can happen.

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Dental Fillings FAQs

What are the benefits of white fillings?

White fillings are a cost-effective cosmetic treatment that means your cavity repair is not noticeable in your mouth. And because the white filling material bonds directly to your tooth, the dentist does not have to drill as much as with amalgam fillings.

Does it hurt to get a white filling?

No. Fillings are carried out under a local anaesthetic so you won’t feel a thing during treatment. If you are at all nervous about having an injection, do let us know so that we can gently help you through the procedure – we have a number of tried and tested techniques at our disposal and lots of experience helping nervous patients.

How long will my white filling last for?

This is traditionally the only downside to white fillings, as they do not usually last as long as amalgam fillings. But with modern technology and materials, the lifespan of the white filling is increasing – you can generally expect yours to last 7-10 years if you practise good oral hygiene.

What happens after a filling treatment?

Some patients experience extra sensitivity for up to three weeks after the treatment, which gradually subsides. For most, though, a filling treatment is very straightforward. The anaesthetic wears off after 1-3 hours and after that you should be able to return to normal activity. Children must be observed until the anaesthesia has completely worn off.