Under consideration PE2115: Ensure NHS dental patients have the option of white composite fillings for the treatment of molar teeth

Background information

The National Health Service (NHS), as an organisation, aims to provide comprehensive health services, which includes dental care. However, patients urgently require more choice when it comes to dental fillings specifically in molar teeth. Currently, the most commonly used filling material in the NHS is silver amalgam – a durable, yet aesthetically unpleasing option. Unfortunately, white composite fillings, which blend with the natural tooth colour and preserve more of the tooth structure, continue to be unavailable for back teeth.

A 2009 World Health Organization report, ‘Future Use of Materials for Dental Restoration’, acknowledges the aesthetical advantage of composite over amalgam fillings. Furthermore, research published by King’s College London in 2017 indicated that 92% of UK adults prefer tooth-coloured fillings.

It's a major priority to respect patients' preferences and dignity in their healthcare experiences. Thus, we urge the Scottish Government to modify its policy to enable composite fillings on the NHS.