Cosmetic Fillings in Manchester

Understanding Composite Fillings

Learn about composite fillings, a popular choice for restoring decayed or damaged teeth, offering a natural look that matches your tooth color.

Procedure Insights

Discover the step-by-step process of how composite fillings are applied, showcasing the advanced techniques used to enhance dental health and aesthetics.

Pros and Cons

Explore the advantages and disadvantages of composite fillings versus traditional amalgam fillings, providing a detailed comparison to help you make informed decisions.

Practical Considerations

Information on the availability and cost of composite fillings, including NHS coverage and pricing, to guide you through the financial aspects of your dental care choice.

Contact Us

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Cosmetic fillings – an Introduction

Welcome to our in-depth guide on composite fillings, a modern solution for restoring your smile and enhancing dental health. Discover what composite fillings are, how they’re done, and their advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional amalgam fillings. We’ve included all the essential information, including availability through the NHS and cost considerations, to help you make informed decisions about your dental care.

What is a cosmetic Filling?

A Cosmetic Filling more often than not refers to a filling made from tooth coloured material, built to blend in with the natural tooth structure. Composite fillings, often referred to as white or cosmetic fillings, are made from a tooth-colored resin material. They provide a more natural appearance compared to silver amalgam fillings, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth. Composite fillings are ideal for repairing cavities, fractures, and decay in your teeth while maintaining aesthetics.

How are Composite Fillings Done?

In this section we will demonstrate the steps in placing a composite filling

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Composite Fillings

Advantages Disadvantages
✓ Aesthetics – Mimics natural tooth color and appearance. ✗Durability – May not last as long as amalgam fillings under heavy wear.
✓ Bonding – Adheres well to tooth structure, providing additional support. ✗Cost – Generally more expensive than amalgam fillings due to high material cost and time investment
✓ Versatility -Suitable for repairing front and back teeth. ✗Sensitivity – Some patients may experience sensitivity post-treatment.
✓ Less Invasive – Often requires less tooth removal compared to amalgam fillings. ✗Technique Sensitive – Requires time, technique and moisture isolation to get a good long term result

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Amalgam Fillings

Advantages Disadvantages
✓ Durability – Known for their strength, particularly in back teeth. ✗Colour -The metallic color doesn’t match natural teeth.
✓ Cost Effective – Significantly less expensive than composite fillings. ✗Unsupportive– Amalgams don’t support the remaining tooth structure and can cause tooth structure to crack due to expansion and contraction.
✓ Longevity – Can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. ✗Ingredients – Contains mercury, raising health concerns for some individuals.
✓ Less Technique sensitive– More forgiving and easier to produce a good long term result ✗Ingredients – Contains mercury, raising health concerns for some individuals.

Before and After Composite Filling

Check out before and after images of composite fillings to see the transformation they can bring to your smile

Composite - After
Composite - After
Composite - After
Amalgam - Before
Amalgam - Before
  • Can composite fillings be used for all cavities? Composite fillings are versatile but may not be suitable for all situations, especially where the cavity is large. How long do composite fillings last? Typically, they last 5 to 10 years, depending on the location and how well they are maintained. Are there any special care instructions? Regular dental hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups are essential.

    NHS composite fillings are often available if you need a filling in one of your front teeth (incisors and canines), the filling material of choice may be a white filling.

    If the filling is in one of your back teeth (such as molars and premolars), for a large filling the more clinically effective option may be an amalgam filling (a silver-coloured material).

    Your dentist can explain the options to you in advance.

    If you prefer to have the white filling or any other cosmetic filling options, your dentist will be able to advise you on the private costs for such treatments, and the risks and benefits associated with it.

    For more detailed information on NHS fillings, visit the official NHS website on dental health services (NHS fillings and crowns) and NHS dental services availability.

  • How much are composite fillings?

    The cost of composite fillings can vary based on the extent of the work needed. Private treatment costs can be found on our website under dental charges. For NHS patients, the cost falls into the Band 2 treatment category.

  • Can composite fillings be used for all cavities?

    Composite fillings are versatile but may not be suitable for all situations, especially where the cavity is large.

  • How long do composite fillings last?

    Typically, they last 5 to 10 years, depending on the location and how well they are maintained.

  • Are there any special care instructions?

    Regular dental hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups are essential.

What customers say about us.

The Vallance Dental Centre IconThe Vallance Dental Centre

Brunswick Street, Manchester

4.8 ★★★★★ 895 reviews

  • Avatar Mo Gill ★★★★★ 4 weeks ago
    We saw Amy the dentist and Pauline today. They were wonderful and really great at explaining the procedure. Amy is really nice and put us at ease. Always a good experience and really friendly. Highly recommend.
  • Avatar Elon Mera ★★★★★ a month ago
    I received excellent service from two lovely dentists, Tiphanie and Catherine! They were wonderful and willing to spend time answering questions of mine. Lovely people and great service from them as always!
  • Avatar Jen Buckley ★★★★★ a month ago
    I had a great experience with Tiphanie and Catherine this week. Tiphanie was very friendly and spent time giving advice and explaining options. The reception have always been very helpful too. Would definitely recommend.
  • Avatar Sue-Ann Anderson ★★★★★ a month ago
    I seen Tiphanie last week for an emergency appointment - she was so lovely and reassuring and explained all options. I had a follow up today with Tiphanie and Catherine and again had a great experience. I've been with this practice for many years and would definitely recommend.
  • Avatar Miss Asha ★★★★ a month ago
    Very good service and reasonably priced. Haveem she was very good and managed to make a difficult extraction very simple. Sue was very supportive and was able to keep me calm. Amazing surface, many, many thanks.
  • Avatar Michelle Lennon ★★★★★ a month ago
    5 star treatment from a 5 star practice. The reception staff were extremely helpful and supportive throughout my visits, and the dental team, who provided me with my root canal treatment, was very professional and friendly and managed to save my tooth. Making me one very happy customer, I would definitely recommend this dentist.

Conclusion

Composite fillings offer a modern and aesthetic solution for dental restorations. If you’re considering composite fillings or have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us by email, phone, or by filling in our contact form to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more radiant smile.

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