Cavities in front teeth can be especially frustrating. Unlike molars, they're front and center every time you smile, talk, or eat. But the good news? You don't have to choose between a healthy mouth and a confident smile. White fillings, also called composite fillings, are the perfect fix for cavities in visible areas. They're strong, discreet, and designed to blend in with your natural teeth.
What Are White Fillings?
White fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin material that bonds directly to your tooth. Unlike old-school silver (amalgam) fillings, composites are matched to the shade of your teeth for a seamless look. They're ideal for repairing front teeth because they look natural and offer solid durability.
Composite Resin vs. Amalgam Fillings
Colour: Composite is tooth-colored. Amalgam is silver and noticeable.
Bonding: Composite bonds directly to enamel. Amalgam sits in the cavity and needs more tooth removal.
Usage: Composite is best for visible teeth. Amalgam is more common in back teeth, though less used now.
Why Cavities Happen in Front Teeth
Cavities in front teeth usually form due to:
Poor brushing technique
High sugar intake
Acidic drinks
Dry mouth
Lack of flossing between teeth
These cavities are usually smaller than those in molars, but they still need treatment before they get worse.
Benefits of White Fillings for Front Teeth
Choosing white fillings for front teeth offers several benefits:
1. Natural Appearance
No one can tell you’ve had dental work. The filling blends with your enamel so your smile stays bright and uniform.
2. Minimally Invasive
Less drilling is needed compared to metal fillings. The resin bonds with your tooth structure, preserving more of your natural tooth.
3. Strong and Durable
Modern composite materials are long-lasting and can withstand normal biting and chewing.
4. Safe and Mercury-Free
White fillings don’t contain mercury, making them a popular alternative to traditional silver fillings.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Getting a white filling on a front tooth is straightforward and usually takes less than an hour. Here's how it goes:
Exam and Shade Matching – The dentist will examine the cavity and choose a resin shade that matches your tooth.
Cleaning and Preparation – The area is cleaned, and any decayed tissue is removed.
Bonding – The composite is applied in layers, cured with a light, and shaped to match your tooth.
Polishing – Once set, the filling is polished to blend in with the tooth surface.
Most patients don’t need freezing for small front-tooth fillings, but your dentist can numb the area if necessary.
How Long Do White Fillings Last?
With good oral hygiene, white fillings on front teeth can last 5 to 10 years or more. Here’s how to make them last:
Brush twice a day
Floss daily
Avoid biting hard items like pens or ice
See your dentist regularly
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While white fillings are an excellent choice, they do have a few limitations:
They can stain over time, especially with coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking.
Slightly less durable than amalgam for high-stress areas (like molars).
Cost may be higher than silver fillings, but many patients feel it’s worth it for the aesthetics.
When Should You Replace a Filling?
White fillings should be replaced if:
They become chipped or cracked
They start to stain or discolour
There’s new decay around the filling
You feel sensitivity or pain
Your Selkirk dentist can check your fillings during routine visits to make sure everything is intact.
Alternatives to White Fillings
If the cavity is large or the tooth is chipped, your dentist might recommend other options:
Dental bonding for cosmetic repairs
Porcelain veneers for major aesthetic concerns
Crowns are if the tooth structure is heavily compromised
Cosmetic Bonus: Fill Gaps or Chips
White fillings aren’t just for cavities. Dentists can also use composite resin to:
Fill small gaps between teeth
Fix chips or cracks
Reshape uneven edges
These cosmetic fixes are often done in a single visit and can dramatically improve the look of your smile.
How to Keep Your Smile Cavity-Free
Preventing cavities in your front teeth means building strong daily habits:
Brush with fluoride toothpaste
Use a soft-bristle brush and clean at the gum line
Floss between teeth every day
Cut back on sugary snacks and drinks
Rinse with water after acidic foods
Visit your dentist every 6 months
Trust Selkirk Crossing Dental for Natural-Looking Fillings
If you’ve got a cavity in a front tooth, don’t wait to fix it. A small issue can turn into a big one fast. At Selkirk Crossing Dental, we specialize in white fillings that protect your teeth and preserve your smile.
Our team is here to make sure your treatment is comfortable, effective, and looks great. Finding the right dentist in Selkirk just got easier.