Fillings

Restore and Protect Your Teeth

Dental fillings are one of the most common ways to repair teeth that have been affected by decay, minor fractures, or wear. By treating problems early, we can restore the strength and function of your tooth while preventing further damage.

At our practice, we use high-quality tooth-coloured composite fillings that are carefully matched to your natural teeth, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.

What Is a Dental Filling?

A filling is used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or minor fractures.

After removing the damaged or decayed part of the tooth, the area is cleaned and filled with a strong restorative material. This restores the tooth's shape, protects it from further decay, and allows you to bite and chew comfortably.

Where possible, we aim to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as we can.

When Might You Need a Filling?

A filling may be recommended if you have:

Tooth decay (a cavity).
A chipped or fractured tooth.
A worn tooth caused by grinding or erosion.
An old filling that has become worn, cracked, or leaking.
Small areas of damage that require restoration.

Sometimes cavities cause no symptoms and are only detected during your routine examination or on dental X-rays. Regular check-ups allow us to identify problems early, often before they become painful.

Tooth-Coloured Composite Fillings

We routinely place tooth-coloured composite fillings, which are designed to blend naturally with your smile.

Composite fillings offer several advantages:

Closely matched to the colour of your natural teeth.
Bond directly to the tooth, helping to support the remaining tooth structure.
Suitable for both front and back teeth in many situations.
Mercury-free.
Can often be placed with minimal removal of healthy tooth tissue.

Our aim is to provide restorations that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Most fillings can be completed in a single appointment.

During your visit we will:

Examine the tooth and confirm the diagnosis.
Numb the area with local anaesthetic if required.
Carefully remove the decay or damaged tooth structure.
Clean and prepare the tooth.
Place the composite filling in layers, shaping it to match your natural tooth.
Polish the filling and check your bite to ensure it feels comfortable.

Most patients are able to return to their normal daily activities immediately after treatment.

Will It Hurt?

If the cavity is deep or the tooth is sensitive, we will numb the area with local anaesthetic to ensure your treatment is as comfortable as possible.

Following treatment, it is normal to experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure for a short time. This usually settles within a few days.

Looking After Your Fillings

To help your fillings last as long as possible:

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
Attend regular dental examinations and hygiene appointments.
Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth and one has been recommended.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, composite fillings can provide many years of reliable service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do fillings last?

The lifespan of a filling depends on its size, location, your oral hygiene, and your biting habits. Many composite fillings last for several years before needing repair or replacement.

Will the filling match my tooth?

Yes. Composite fillings are available in a range of shades and are carefully selected to blend with your natural teeth.

Can an old filling be replaced?

Yes. If an existing filling has become worn, cracked, or developed decay around it, we can often replace it with a new composite filling.

What if my tooth is too damaged for a filling?

If there is insufficient healthy tooth remaining to support a filling, we may recommend an alternative treatment such as an inlay, onlay, or dental crown. We will always discuss the most appropriate option with you.

Preventing Tooth Decay

The best way to avoid needing fillings is through good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

We recommend:

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Cleaning between your teeth every day.
Limiting sugary foods and drinks, particularly between meals.
Attending regular dental examinations so that any problems can be detected and treated early.

Book an Appointment

If you have toothache, sensitivity, have noticed a hole in a tooth, or have been told you need a filling, our team is here to help.

We will carefully assess your tooth, explain your treatment options, and provide gentle, high-quality care to restore your smile and protect your oral health.