White (Composite) Fillings in Croydon

3D illustration of a tooth-coloured restoration on a molar A cavity doesn’t have to mean a metal filling that stands out every time you smile. White composite fillings are tooth-coloured and designed to blend naturally with the surrounding tooth. At Croydon Dental Clinic, we take the same gentle, unhurried approach to fillings as we do to every appointment, matching you with the right clinician based on the care you need.

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What Are White (Composite) Fillings?

White fillings are made from composite resin, a tooth-coloured material that bonds directly to the tooth rather than simply sitting inside it, as older amalgam fillings do. Because composite bonds to the tooth, it can often be placed with less removal of healthy tooth structure than some older filling techniques.

The material is shaped and polished to match the surrounding tooth, helping the filling blend in rather than leaving a dark or metallic patch. Composite is suitable for many cavities, including fillings provided as part of children’s dentistry.

Who Provides Your Filling?

Both our Dentists and our Oral Health Therapist provide white fillings at Croydon Dental Clinic, within their individual scope of practice. We match the clinician to the needs and complexity of your case.

Prathiba, our OHT’s scope includes fillings children up to the age of 18. Dr Branav Kanaga and Dr Minnu Joe Ida, our dentists, do fillings for any age and also manage more involved restorative cases, including larger fillings and situations requiring a broader care plan. This means you’ll see the clinician whose training and scope are appropriate for the care you need.

Dental drill on a molar

The Filling Process

Placing a white filling is generally a straightforward procedure.

Assess – We examine the tooth and confirm whether a filling is appropriate.
Numb if needed – Local anaesthetic may be used to keep you comfortable.
Remove decay – The decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
Shape and bond – Composite resin is applied and shaped into place.
Cure and polish – A curing light sets the material before the filling is polished and your bite checked.

Most straightforward fillings can be completed in a single appointment.

Caring for Your Filling

Some temporary sensitivity to hot, cold or pressure can occur after a filling. If you’ve had local anaesthetic, take care eating until the numbness has worn off. Continue brushing and flossing as usual to help maintain the tooth and filling.

If you experience ongoing discomfort, notice a sharp edge, or your filling or bite doesn’t feel right, contact our team so we can check it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do white fillings last?

The lifespan of a composite filling varies depending on its size and location, your bite, oral hygiene and other individual factors. We can check your fillings during regular check and clean appointments and let you know if we notice changes.

Do fillings hurt?

Local anaesthetic may be used when appropriate to help keep you comfortable during the procedure. Some temporary sensitivity afterwards can occur and usually settles. If discomfort persists or concerns you, contact our team.

Are white fillings covered by health funds or CDBS?

Depending on your policy, private health funds may provide benefits towards white fillings. Eligible children may also be able to use their available Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) benefits for fillings. Our team can help you check your available benefits before your appointment.

Can old amalgam fillings be replaced with white fillings?

They can be replaced for aesthetic reasons or when a filling needs attention because it is worn, cracked or has decay around or underneath it. A well-functioning amalgam filling doesn’t need to be routinely replaced on health grounds alone. We’ll assess the tooth and discuss the available options with you.

Book a Filling Appointment

If you have a cavity or an existing filling that needs attention, book an appointment at Croydon Dental Clinic. Whether you see Prathiba or one of our dentists, we’ll match you with the right clinician for the care you need.