White Fillings & Porcelain Inlays
Tooth-coloured fillings and precision-milled porcelain inlays — strong, discreet, stain-resistant restorations.
White Fillings & Porcelain Inlays in London
At The Behrens Dental Practice we recommend replacing mercury fillings when they break or leak — or simply when you want beautiful white teeth. An amalgam-free mouth makes a real difference to your smile.
For smaller cavities we use direct composite fillings; for larger defects, precision-milled porcelain inlays or onlays. All treatments are performed under a microscope to achieve maximum precision.
Benefits of Porcelain Inlays & Onlays
More Conservative Treatment
Compared to a crown, inlays and onlays require less tooth reduction — we remove only the compromised tissue before placing the restoration, preserving more of your natural tooth.
Natural-Looking Results
Porcelain is shade-matched to blend seamlessly with neighbouring teeth and mimics the sheen of natural enamel. It's also stain-resistant, staying bright and vibrant over time.
Easy Care
Daily care is no different to natural teeth — brush and floss daily and keep up biannual check-ups. If your inlay ever loosens or cracks, contact us to arrange a visit.
Composite Fillings Before & After
White Fillings vs. Porcelain Inlays
Both are excellent, modern alternatives to metal amalgam — but they're different materials with different applications.
White Composite Fillings
A malleable resin applied directly to the prepared tooth in layers and hardened with a special light. Ideal for smaller cavities, it's a quick, minimally invasive repair usually completed in a single visit.
Porcelain Inlays
A single, solid piece of medical-grade porcelain custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory to fit the exact shape of the cavity, then securely bonded into place. The preferred choice for larger decay, offering superior strength and longevity.
A 99% survival rate
Clinical studies document a 99% survival rate for porcelain inlays on premolars over 11.5 years — making them a wise long-term investment in your oral health.
Precision & Technology in Every Restoration
Microscopic Precision
All procedures are performed under high-powered microscopes — removing decay with pinpoint accuracy, preserving more healthy tooth, and ensuring an exceptionally tight seal.
Advanced Materials & Techniques
Our porcelain inlays are crafted using CAD/CAM technology and superior materials like IPS e.max lithium disilicate — for a perfect fit and a more comfortable experience.
Commitment to Biocompatibility
We exclusively use mercury-free materials for all restorations — eliminating the concerns associated with traditional amalgam, especially for patients with metal sensitivities.
Patient-Centred Care
We take the time to listen and educate. Our multilingual team ensures you feel fully informed and comfortable at every stage, from consultation to final result.
Your Treatment, Step by Step
White Composite Filling — One Visit
The area is numbed for comfort, and decay is removed under microscopic guidance. The tooth is cleaned and conditioned, the composite resin applied in layers, sculpted, and hardened with a curing light — then shaped and polished to match your bite and blend flawlessly.
Porcelain Inlay — Two Visits
First visit: the tooth is numbed, decay or old filling removed, a precise digital impression taken, and a temporary filling placed. Second visit: the temporary is removed, your custom inlay tried in for a perfect fit, then permanently bonded and polished for a smooth, beautiful finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do white fillings and porcelain inlays last?
White fillings typically last between 5 and 7 years with good oral hygiene. Porcelain inlays are significantly more durable, often lasting 15 years or more — an excellent long-term solution.
Will the procedure hurt?
Your comfort is paramount. We use effective local anaesthesia to ensure the process is pain-free, and patients typically report little to no discomfort afterwards.
Can an inlay replace a large metal filling?
Absolutely. Porcelain inlays are one of the best, most conservative ways to replace old, large amalgam fillings — strengthening the remaining tooth and eliminating the risks associated with mercury.
How do I care for my new restoration?
Just like a natural tooth — regular brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups. Porcelain is highly stain-resistant, so you can enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without worry.
Explore Aesthetic Treatments
Take the Next Step Towards a Healthier Smile
Let us help you restore your tooth with a solution that is strong, beautiful, and built to last.
Book Online NowOr call us: 0207 584 8810