Fillings

Dental fillings are materials used by dentists to restore the function and integrity of a tooth that has been damaged by decay, injury, or wear.

The filling material is placed in the cavity or space left by the decay to prevent further damage, restore normal function, and improve the appearance of the tooth.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are several types of dental filling materials, each with its own set of characteristics, advantages, and applications:

Composite Fillings

• Description: Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. They are often used for fillings in the front teeth because they can be closely matched to the natural colour of your teeth.
• Purpose: Ideal for small to medium-sized cavities, particularly in visible areas. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them aesthetically pleasing.
• Advantages: Natural appearance, bonds directly to the tooth, and requires less drilling compared to amalgam.

Amalgam Fillings

• Description: Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. They are known for their durability and strength.
• Purpose: Suited for fillings in the back teeth where pressure from chewing is most significant. They are highly durable and resistant to wear and tear.
• Advantages: Long-lasting, strong, and resistant to decay. Generally less expensive than other types.

Glass Ionomer Fillings

• Description: Glass ionomer fillings are made from a mixture of glass and an organic acid. They release fluoride, which can help protect the tooth from further decay.
• Purpose: Often used for fillings below the gum line or in areas not subjected to heavy chewing. They are also used for fillings in children’s teeth.
• Advantages: Fluoride release helps prevent future decay, making it suitable for areas where aesthetics are less important.

The Treatment Process

The process of getting a dental filling typically involves the following steps:

1. Diagnosis and Planning
   Your dentist will examine your tooth, typically using X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage or decay. Based on this assessment, they will recommend the most suitable type of filling.
2. Preparation
   If you have decay or damaged tooth structure, the dentist will remove it using a drill. The cavity is cleaned to ensure that no remaining decay is present.
3. Filling Placement
   The selected filling material is prepared and placed into the cavity. For composite resins, the material is applied in layers and hardened using a special light. For other materials, the filling is placed and shaped to fit the cavity.
4. Shaping and Polishing
   Once the filling material is in place, the dentist will shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth and polish it to ensure a smooth finish.
5. Final Check
   Your dentist will check your bite to ensure that the filling aligns properly with your other teeth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit.

Aftercare and Maintenance

• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. This helps prevent further decay and ensures the longevity of your fillings.
• Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your fillings and overall dental health.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid biting into very hard foods immediately after getting a filling to prevent damage to the filling and your tooth.

How much do fillings cost?

Composite Filling

• Private – From £125.00.
• Denplan Essentials – From £100.
• Denplan Care – Covered.

Amalgam Filling

• Private – From £99.00.
• Denplan Essentials – From £79.20.
• Denplan Care – Covered.

Glass Ionomer Filling

• Private – From £65.00.
• Denplan Essentials – From £52.00.
• Denplan Care – Covered.

Ready to restore your smile?

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our experienced dental team is here to help you achieve and maintain optimal dental health.