Fillings

What are fillings?

A filling is a treatment for a tooth damaged by caries, cavities, or decay that restores its normal function and shape, preventing further damage. When good oral hygiene is not maintained, bacterial plaque builds up on your teeth, which further turns sugar into acid. Eventually, causing dental caries and gum diseases. Initially, you may not feel any pain or experience any severe symptoms, so it can easily go undetected. However, if it is left untreated, it could lead to serious tooth infections and periodontitis. If you experience a toothache, whether it is continuous or occasional pain, tooth sensitivity, tooth discolouration, or bad breath we would advise that you book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

The benefits of fillings

The key advantage of a dental filling is restoring a tooth whether it is carious, damaged or broken. It will restore your tooth’s normal function and appearance. Other benefits are:

• Long-lasting treatment
• Strengthen a weakened tooth
• Prevent further infection
• Improve tooth functionality
• Provide relief from pain and discomfort
• Prevent tooth sensitivity
• Bite and chew food properly
• Affordable treatment
• Restore your smile
• Fluoride to prevent tooth decay

What fillings do we offer?

Your dentist will be able to recommend the right type of filling for your tooth after a thorough dental examination. The options available are:

1. Composite (white) Fillings: Composite fillings give you a natural looking restoration as they are colour matched to the same shade as your natural teeth. They also release small amounts of fluoride, which can help reduce the risk of further tooth decay
2. Amalgam (silver) fillings: Amalgam fillings are composed of a mixture of silver and mercury alloy and are more durable than other types of fillings.

For temporary restorations, we also offer glass ionomer cement and Resin ionomer cement these are also tooth coloured restorations.

What to expect before and during treatment?

When you visit your dentist for fillings, the dentist will:

1. The dentist will discuss your dental history with you.
2. You will be advised and given the option of what type of filling is recommended. You will be also given a written estimate of the cost of your treatment.
3. On the treatment day, the dentist will numb the area by giving you a local anaesthetic.
4. A drill will be used to cut the enamel and remove tooth decay. He will then shape the space for fillings.
5. If a composite filling is being placed then your dentist will clean the tooth with a gel before applying a bonding material this is set with a UV light once set they will then begin filling the area in small layers at a time.
6. The complete filling process may take 30-60 minutes.

What to expect after you’ve had your filling?

Once the fillings are complete, you may feel a little discomfort. However, this should settle after a few days. You may experience any of the following after your treatment:

1. Changes in sensation
2. Sensitivity to hot and cold
3. Soreness and discomfort
4. Avoid eating chewy, sticky or hard food
5. Maintain good oral hygiene

How much do fillings cost?

The cost of a filling depends on the size, complexity and type of filling you choose. The price of a filling varies between £125.00 to £250.00.

The teeth are an important part of your body, you use them every day!