Hide cavities, not your smile - white fillings in Thornton Heath
Tooth-coloured composite restorations that look natural, feel smooth and help keep teeth strong.
This paragraph gives us additional space to discuss the treatment if we require it. It's a pretty concise space to get a direct message across.
Tooth-coloured composite chosen to match your enamel for a seamless finish
A strong, bonded material that can reinforce the tooth and support the bite
Mercury-free restorations for patients who prefer an alternative to metal fillings
A conservative approach that aims to preserve as much healthy tooth as possible
A friendly, supportive team caring for patients across Thornton Heath and Croydon
A discreet repair that supports your tooth - without the metal look
There is a simple reason so many patients ask for white fillings - they repair a tooth while keeping your smile looking like you. At Thornton Dental & Implant Centre, we use modern composite materials to restore strength and function, while matching the shade to your natural enamel. That means you can speak, laugh and smile with confidence, knowing your restoration blends in.
A more natural look when you smile - with tooth-coloured alternatives
Older metal fillings can be noticeable, especially when you yawn, laugh or speak. If the filling is failing, cracked or no longer fits well, it may be sensible to replace it. Many patients also choose to upgrade visible restorations for a more even, tooth-coloured finish.
We will always check that replacement is appropriate for your tooth. If a filling is still healthy and doing its job, it may be better left alone - we will talk you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
Some patients combine white fillings with treatments such as cosmetic dentistry or teeth whitening to brighten and balance their smile.
Modern composite materials designed for strength, comfort and a natural finish
White fillings are usually made from composite resin - a tooth-coloured material used to restore teeth affected by decay, tooth wear or dental trauma. The composite is carefully shaped and set using a curing (blue) light, then polished to a smooth finish.
One key advantage of composite is that it bonds to the tooth, which often means less healthy tooth tissue needs to be removed compared with materials that do not bond.
With good brushing, flossing and routine dental check-ups, a composite filling can last for many years. How long it lasts depends on factors such as the size of the filling, where it sits in the mouth, and your bite.
A quick and comfortable treatment process
A straightforward appointment - focused on accuracy and a natural result
Assessment
We examine the tooth and confirm whether a composite filling is the best option. You can also explore other restorative options such as dental crowns and other general dentistry.
Shade matching
We select a composite colour that blends closely with your enamel.
Numbing the area
Local anaesthetic is used where needed to keep you comfortable.
Prepare the tooth
Any decay or weakened material is removed and the tooth is cleaned.
Layering and curing
The composite is added in layers and set with a curing light.
Assessment
We examine the tooth and confirm whether a composite filling is the best option. You can also explore other restorative options such as dental crowns and other general dentistry.
Shade matching
We select a composite colour that blends closely with your enamel.
Numbing the area
Local anaesthetic is used where needed to keep you comfortable.
Prepare the tooth
Any decay or weakened material is removed and the tooth is cleaned.
Layering and curing
The composite is added in layers and set with a curing light.
Shape and polish
We adjust your bite and polish the filling so it feels smooth and looks natural.
Common questions about white fillings in Thornton Heath
Are white (composite) fillings safe?
Yes. Composite fillings are widely used and are designed to restore lost tooth structure while protecting the tooth from further damage.
How long do composite fillings last?
It varies. Many last for years with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. The lifespan depends on the size of the filling, where it is placed and your bite.
Do white fillings stain over time?
They are generally resistant to staining, but frequent tea, coffee, red wine and smoking can affect colour over time. Hygiene visits and good brushing help keep them looking fresh.
Can you replace my old metal fillings with white ones?
Often, yes - if replacement is clinically appropriate. We will check the condition of the existing filling first. If it is sound and causing no issues, replacing it may not be necessary.
Are white fillings suitable for back teeth?
In many cases, yes. Modern composite materials are commonly used for both front and back teeth, depending on the size and position of the cavity.
Will my white filling be noticeable?
We shade-match the composite to your enamel and polish it carefully, so it blends in with the tooth and is usually very hard to spot.
Do white fillings cost more than metal fillings?
They can be priced differently because the material is tooth-coloured and the placement is technique-sensitive. You can check our dental fees page or speak to our team for guidance.
What are white fillings and how do they work?
If you require a filling in your tooth, a cosmetic option would be to choose a white filling material that matches the shade of your surrounding natural teeth. You can also have any existing metallic fillings replaced with tooth-coloured or ‘white’ fillings. This will allow you to smile without a metallic glint in sight, giving your teeth a more natural appearance overall.
This is a safe procedure that entails the removal of any decay from your tooth, and taking out the metal or amalgam fillings if you are having them replaced. The new filling is made from a very hard tooth-coloured substance and will withstand the forces in your mouth when you bite and chew over a long period of time. The restoration is completed in one visit and your fillings will not be visible when you smile.
How do white fillings work and why do people choose them?
First, any decay or weakened material is removed. The tooth is then cleaned and prepared so the composite can bond securely. The filling is built up in layers, set with a curing light, then shaped and polished so it fits your bite.
Patients often choose composite because it looks natural, supports normal chewing, and can be completed in a single visit for most straightforward cases.
Ready for a more natural-looking repair in Thornton Heath?
If you have a new cavity, a broken filling, or a restoration you would like refreshed, we can help. Our focus is on clear advice, careful technique and a finish that blends in with your smile.
I have been a patient at Thornton Heath Dental Surgery for over 10 years, and I can truly say this is the best dental clinic I have ever been to.
I honestly had such a great experience here! Dr. Alia Johab is amazing – she made me feel so comfortable and always takes the time to answer any worries I have.
I was treated for a cavity and the experience was excellent! The professional was very attentive, careful and made me feel very comfortable during the procedure.
I have been to different dentists in the past but my visit to Dr Alia has been life changing.
How to find us in Thornton Heath
Thornton Heath,
CR7 7JD
Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday: 9:00am – 1:30pm
Sunday: Closed
250 & 198
Parking available
Thornton Heath train station – 10 mins walk
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Our other practices
Thornton Dental & Implant Centre is part of a small group of independently run dental practices, each offering high-quality care with a patient-first approach across London and Surrey.
Apex Dental & Implant Centre
200 Hampton Road
West Feltham TW13 6BG
Waterfall Dental & Implant Centre
223 Tooting High Street
London SW17 0TD
Putney Dental & Implant Centre
353 Upper Richmond Road,
Putney, London, SW15 5QJ
