Tooth decay is the most common reason for needing a filling.  A Dentist can detect decay in the mouth during an examination or on an X-ray. If tooth decay is not removed it can get bigger and eventually cause pain or break the tooth. The sooner decay is removed the better, as it can increase in size very quickly. Fillings are also needed when a tooth fractures or when old fillings need replacing due to general wear and tear.

Often there are no signs or symptoms. This is why regular check-ups are recommended with your dentist. If you’re experiencing sensitivity or even pain while eating or drinking very hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks, then you may have tooth decay and require a filling.

The treatment is mostly painless due to the anaesthetic that’s used. Afterwards the treated area can feel tender and bruised and your tooth can be sensitive. This sensitivity generally subsides over a couple of days. If you are worried contact your dentist for advice.

In the past the most common type of fillings were mercury amalgam fillings but today the most popular filling material is white tooth-coloured composite resin.

The main benefits are as follows:

• White filling material can be used to create a filling which blends into your natural tooth. It comes in a wide variety of shades which can be matched to your natural tooth and then sculpted to recreate the original shape of the tooth. Amalgam only comes in one colour- silver!
• White filling materials are bonded to your natural tooth whereas amalgam doesn’t. Amalgam therefore requires special features to be added to the cavity which involves removing more natural tooth tissue which is never ideal. These features are not required for white filling material therefore it is kinder to the remaining natural tooth.
• White fillings can be resurfaced, repaired or polished in the future if any issues occur.

White fillings on back teeth are not covered by the NHS as it is classed as cosmetic. They can only be provided on a private basis. We can place white filling material on the front six teeth on the NHS however this does not include layered cosmetic white fillings which are used for composite bonding.

Yes, this is an acceptable treatment option however patients must be aware that they can have issues with sensitivity after any filling is replaced.

Fillings can last for over many years if they are well looked after by both dentist and patient.

The following are keys to the longevity of a filling:

• Eating a healthy diet low in both refined and unrefined sugars – and not snacking
• Keeping your mouth clean with regular brushing and flossing
• Having regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleaning to help remove plaque and calculus that you miss
• Using a fluoridated toothpaste