Treat Your Cavities with White or Porcelain Fillings
Posted on 6/15/2026 by Excel Dental
Cavities are a common problem, but the good news is we have great ways to fix them! When you get a cavity, your dentist needs to remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill the space to protect it. In the past, silver fillings were the most common choice, but now we have tooth-colored options that look much more natural. Let’s talk about white fillings and porcelain fillings and how they can help you maintain good oral care and a healthy smile. These fall under the umbrella of restoration dentistry, which focuses on bringing your teeth back to their best.
What are White Fillings?
White fillings, also called composite fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic and glass. This material is carefully matched to the color of your teeth, so the filling blends in seamlessly. Your dentist will prepare the tooth, then apply the composite in layers, using a special light to harden each layer. This creates a strong and durable filling that looks great.
What are Porcelain Fillings?
Porcelain fillings, also known as inlays or onlays, are made from a strong, tooth-colored ceramic material. They are typically used for larger cavities or when a tooth needs more support than a composite filling can provide. Porcelain fillings are custom-made in a dental lab to fit your tooth perfectly. They are then bonded to the tooth by your dentist.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings
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Natural Look: The biggest advantage is how natural they look. They blend in with your surrounding teeth, so no one will even know you have a filling.
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Bonding to the Tooth: Composite and porcelain fillings actually bond to the tooth structure, which helps to strengthen the tooth and prevent future decay.
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Less Tooth Sensitivity: Some people experience sensitivity to hot and cold with silver fillings. Tooth-colored fillings are less likely to cause this problem.
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Mercury-Free: Unlike silver fillings, white and porcelain fillings don't contain mercury, which is a concern for some people.
How to Care for Your Fillings
Taking care of your fillings is easy. Just follow your regular oral care routine:
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Brush twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
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Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your fillings.
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Regular checkups: Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can check the condition of your fillings and make sure they are still in good shape.
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Avoid biting hard objects: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard objects can damage your fillings.
Making the Right Choice
Both white and porcelain fillings are excellent options for treating cavities. The best choice for you will depend on the size and location of the cavity, your budget, and your dentist's recommendation. Talk to your dentist about the pros and cons of each type of filling to decide which is right for you. Maintaining excellent oral care is essential, and the right filling can help keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
About Us | Dentist Battle Ground, WA | Excel Dental Your first step to a healthier, more beautiful smile is just a phone call away! Call Excel Dental in Battleground, WA to schedule an appointment today! Excel Dental - Burke Jardine, DMD, 1401 Northwest 1st St., #120, Battle Ground, WA 98604 + (360) 369-3930 + exceldentalnw.com + 7/11/2026 + Page Keywords: dentist Battle Ground WA +
Cavities are a common problem, but the good news is we have great ways to fix them! When you get a cavity, your dentist needs to remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill the space to protect it. In the past, silver fillings were the most common choice, but now we have tooth-colored options that look much more natural. Let’s talk about white fillings and porcelain fillings and how they can help you maintain good oral care and a healthy smile. These fall under the umbrella of restoration dentistry, which focuses on bringing your teeth back to their best.