Cosmetic dentistry information for everyone.

I recently had two fillings done. I got the white fillings, though I usually get the silver ones. This time I’m having tooth pain after I get it. What should I do? I like the white fillings because they look so much nicer than the other ones, but I don’t want to be in pain all the time.

Susan K. from Utah

Dear Susan,

When composite (white) fillings are done correctly, they do not cause pain. Many dental schools are emphasizing placing amalgam fillings on back teeth, instead of composite. Your dentist may not have taken the additional training required to learn how to fill them properly. One way to tell if the pain is from your fillings, or from another issue, is when it hurts. Do you have pain when you clench your teeth, or only when you are chewing something? If you only have pain when you’re chewing, than it is probably your fillings. However, if you’re having pain when you clench your teeth, than it may be a bite issue.

If it does turn out to be your fillings, they can be re-done. It might be pointless to have them done by the same dentist if he doesn’t have adequate training, but you can always try. Maybe he’ll re-do them pro bono, because of his mistake. If you decide to go elsewhere to have them done, I would make sure you use a qualified dentist with plenty of experience placing them. One way to tell is a dentist has a lot of experience with composite fillings is if they are a mercury-free dentist. If so, that means they only do white fillings.

This blog is sponsored by New Jersey cosmetic dentist Allyson Hurley.