Aesthetic Dentistry Menu
White fillings & Porcelain Inlays in London
At The Behrens Dental Practice we recommend that any mercury fillings are replaced when they break or leak or where you simply want to have beautiful white teeth.
Not only is it good to have an “amalgam-free” mouth, but also you will find that it will make a huge difference for you and your smile.
For smaller cavities, we use direct composite fillings, whereas for larger defects we use porcelain inlays or onlays. All treatments are done under a microscope to achieve maximum precision and goals.
Benefits of porcelain inlays/onlays:
- More Conservative Treatment: As compared to a dental crown, inlays and onlays require less tooth reduction. Your dentist need only remove the compromised tissue before placing the restoration. Dental crowns, on the other hand, require your dentist to remove a more significant portion of your tooth to accommodate the restoration.’
- Natural-Looking Results: Inlays and onlays can replace old, worn amalgam restorations. Porcelain can be shade-matched to blend seamlessly with neighboring teeth and beautifully mimics the sheen of natural enamel. Porcelain is also stain-resistant, so you can feel confident that your restoration will remain bright and vibrant over time.
- Easy Care: Daily at-home care for inlays and onlays is no different than that of healthy, natural teeth. You should brush and floss daily and visit the dentist for biannual checkups to ensure your restoration is strong and secure. Should your inlay or onlay become loose, painful, crack, or fall out completely, contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule a visit.
Ready to discuss what’s best for your smile? Call us at 0207 584 8810 or schedule your appointment online today.
Understanding Your Options: White Fillings vs. Porcelain Inlays
Both composite fillings and porcelain inlays are excellent, modern alternatives to traditional metal amalgam fillings. They restore the strength and function of a damaged tooth while blending seamlessly with your natural enamel. However, they are fundamentally different materials with unique applications.
- White Composite Fillings: This is a malleable resin material that is applied directly to the prepared tooth in layers and hardened with a special light. It's an ideal solution for smaller cavities and offers a quick, minimally invasive repair, often completed in a single visit. The market for these accessible fillings is expected to grow to nearly $900 million by 2030, highlighting their popularity for chairside convenience.
- Porcelain Inlays: An inlay is a single, solid piece of medical-grade porcelain custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory to fit the precise shape of the cavity. It is then securely bonded into place by your dentist. Inlays are the preferred choice for larger areas of decay or damage, offering superior strength and longevity. Their growth is even more rapid, with the market projected to reach $7.6 billion by 2030, driven by their incredible durability and aesthetic appeal.
A Clear Comparison for Your Decision
Making the right choice depends on the size of the restoration needed, your long-term goals, and your budget. This table breaks down the key differences to help guide your evaluation.
| Feature | White Composite Filling | Porcelain Inlay |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Small to medium-sized cavities | Medium to large cavities; replacing old fillings |
| Durability | Good (5-7 years on average) | Exceptional (15+ years) |
| Longevity | Susceptible to wear and staining over time | Highly resistant to wear, chipping, and stains |
| Strength | Restores moderate tooth strength | Significantly strengthens the tooth structure |
| Procedure | One appointment; material applied directly | Two appointments; custom-made in a lab |
| Aesthetics | Excellent initial match; can discolour over time | Superior colour stability and natural translucence |
| Fit & Seal | Good marginal seal | Extremely precise fit, preventing bacteria leakage |
Clinical studies underscore the remarkable performance of porcelain inlays, with some research documenting a 99% survival rate on premolars over 11.5 years. This exceptional longevity makes them a wise long-term investment in your oral health.
The Behrens Advantage: Precision and Technology in Every Restoration
Choosing where to receive your treatment is just as important as the treatment itself. As a trusted dentist in South Kensington, our practice is built on a foundation of meticulous care and advanced dental technology.
Here’s why patients in London choose us for their restorative needs:
- Microscopic Precision: Dr. Behrens and our team perform all procedures using high-powered microscopes. This magnification allows us to remove decay with pinpoint accuracy, preserving more of your healthy tooth structure and ensuring an exceptionally tight seal for your filling or inlay.
- Advanced Materials & Techniques: We utilise the latest in digital dentistry. Our porcelain inlays are crafted using state-of-the-art CAD/CAM technology and superior materials like lithium disilicate glass ceramics (IPS e.max), known for their strength and beauty. This digital workflow ensures a perfect fit and a more comfortable patient experience.
- A Commitment to Biocompatibility: Your overall health is our priority. We exclusively use mercury-free materials for all restorations, eliminating concerns associated with traditional amalgam fillings. This is particularly important for patients with metal sensitivities or those concerned about amalgam fillings and pregnancy.
- Patient-Centred Care: We take the time to listen and educate. Our multilingual team ensures you feel fully informed and comfortable at every stage of your treatment, from the initial consultation to the final result.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
We believe a transparent process reduces anxiety and builds trust. Here’s a simple overview of what happens when you get a filling or inlay at our practice.
For a White Composite Filling (One Visit):
- The area is numbed for your comfort.
- Decay is carefully removed under microscopic guidance.
- The tooth is cleaned and prepared with a conditioning liquid.
- The composite resin is applied in layers, sculpted, and hardened with a curing light.
- The final filling is shaped and polished to match your bite and blend flawlessly.
For a Porcelain Inlay (Two Visits):
- First Visit: The tooth is numbed, and the decay or old filling is removed. We then take a precise digital impression, which is sent to our master dental technicians. A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.
- Second Visit: The temporary filling is removed, and the tooth is cleaned. We then try in your custom-made porcelain inlay to ensure a perfect fit. Once confirmed, it is permanently bonded to your tooth and polished for a beautiful, smooth 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, making them an excellent long-term solution for restoring dental inlays in London.
Will the procedure hurt? Your comfort is paramount. We use effective local anaesthesia to ensure the entire process is pain-free. Patients typically report little to no discomfort afterwards.
Can an inlay replace a large metal filling? Absolutely. Porcelain inlays are one of the best and most conservative ways to replace old, large amalgam fillings. They strengthen the remaining tooth structure and eliminate the risks associated with mercury.
How do I care for my new restoration? You can care for your filling or inlay just like a natural tooth—with regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups. Porcelain is highly stain-resistant, so you can enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without worry.
Take the Next Step Towards a Healthier Smile
Choosing the right dental restoration is a significant decision. At Behrens Dental Practice, we are dedicated to providing you with the finest care, advanced technology, and expert guidance you need to feel confident in your choice.
Let us help you restore your tooth with a solution that is strong, beautiful, and built to last.
Contact our South Kensington office today to schedule your consultation.
- Call us directly at 0207 584 8810
- Book your appointment online at your convenience
Before
After
