Tooth fillings

Tooth restorations - tooth fillings

Tooth fillings are one of the most basic methods of restoring teeth, usually when they have been damaged by tooth decay.

The procedure for a tooth filling

You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the region for pain-free treatment. The dentist will then remove the decay and some or all of the old filling (if relevant). The tooth will be cleaned and prepared and the filling material will be moulded to fit the tooth shape. A special light may be used to help the filling harden more quickly. The filling will then we trimmed and polished.

How much do fillings cost?

The cost of a filling depends on the size of the filling, the material used and complexity of the filling. We will discuss the cost of treatment with you before your treatment begins.

Different filling materials

In many cases we recommend white fillings but there are occasions when amalgam or other materials may be more appropriate. If you need a filling we will discuss the options with you when you visit.

  • Amalgam fillings

    • What are amalgam fillings?

      These are the standard silver-coloured fillings, and have been used for over 200 years, making them the oldest dental material around apart from gold. They are made of up of a mix of mercury and an alloy powder including silver, copper and tin.

      Whilst they are extremely strong and long-lasting, the main drawback is a cosmetic one – they just don’t look particularly nice.

      Are there any alternatives to amalgam fillings?

      Yes there are alternatives amalgam fillings such as white fillings, crowns or inlays. We will be happy to discuss any treatment options when you visit us and help you decide what is right for you.

  • White fillings

    • What are white fillings?

      In the past standard fillings were made out of a silvery-grey material called amalgam. Whilst this is strong and long-lasting, our preference is to use some of the most recently developed white filling materials which are completely mercury-free.

      What are the benefits of having white fillings?

      White fillings are popular as they can be matched to the colour of your teeth so they look natural, in most cases it is impossible to see that the tooth as ever been filled. White fillings are often preferred to silver amalgam fillings which can be more visible and unattractive and make people feel self-conscious about the way they look.

      What materials are white fillings made of?

      White fillings can be made of different materials. They are usually made of glass particles, synthetic resin and a setting ingredient.

      Are white fillings long-lasting?

      The new materials are now available with properties comparable to silver amalgam fillings – they are strong and long lasting. How long they last will depend on where in your mouth the white filling is and how heavily you bite on it.

      Are there any alternatives to white fillings?

      Yes there are alternatives white fillings such as amalgam fillings, veneers on front teeth, crowns or inlays. We will be happy to discuss any treatment options when you visit us and help you decide what is right for you.




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