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Fillings to restore your tooth’s functionality

Fillings

A filling is used to fill a cavity (a hole in the tooth caused by tooth decay) or to repair damage like a chip.

Applying a filling will help to prevent the tooth from further damage or decay in that area, and will restore the tooth to its normal function.

The majority of the fillings we do at Oakwood Dental Practice are made from composite resin, which will be carefully selected to match your natural tooth shade so the filling will be practically invisible.

Composite resin is a restorative dental material made from synthetic resins that has many benefits:

 

  • Doesn’t require as much of the original tooth to be removed/drilled before use
  • Bonds easily to your original tooth
  • Can be used to repair chips and cracks as well as cavities
  • Few instances of sensitivity when compared to other filling materials such as amalgam
  • Is tooth-coloured, making them practically invisible

WHO IS A FILLING SUITABLE FOR?

People of all ages may require a filling. Commonly, those who are in need of a filling will experience toothache, sensitivity or have noticed a hole in the tooth. You may also be alerted to decay by your dentist or hygienist.

TREATMENT PROCESS

STEP 1

You’ll be given local anaesthetic to numb the area.

STEP 2

Any decay will be removed before your tooth is shaped, cleaned and prepared to bond to the filling.

STEP 3

The composite resin is used to fill the cavity or chip and is then cured using blue LED light, which sets the filling immediately.

STEP 4

Your bite will be checked using marking papers to ensure that your filling is fitting perfectly and is comfortable before you leave the practice

HOW MUCH DOES A FILLING COST?

Fillings can range from £97to £295 depending on the size of the cavity and the amount of decay. Your Dental Therapist or Dentist will be able to advise you of the specific cost following your consultation.

As with many of our treatments, patients on one of our membership plans get a 10% discount.

Read more about our membership plans here.

AFTERCARE

As your filling will be hardened while you sit in the dentist’s chair, you will be able to bite and chew as normal as soon as your anaesthetic has worn off (usually 1-3 hours).

While you’re still numb:
– Avoid chewing on the numb side of your mouth as you may bite your tongue and lips without noticing
– Be careful with hot drinks, as it may be difficult to tell if the temperature is too hot
Normal brushing and flossing can resume immediately after your filling. You may find that there is some sensitivity following your treatment, but applying sensitive toothpaste directly to the area will help to reduce this.
Any discomfort following the treatment should resolve itself after 2-3 days.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Does having a filling hurt?
No, you will be numbed using local anaesthetic during the procedure. Once the anaesthetic wears off you may feel some discomfort for a day or two, but this will quickly resolve itself.
Are the fillings long-lasting?
Yes, composite fillings not only look natural, but are extremely hard wearing too. If you take good care of your teeth your filling should last 12-15 years.
Can my filling crack or stain?
Yes, much like your natural teeth it is possible to chip your filling or for it to become stained. Taking good care of your teeth will help to minimise any damage to your filling and will help it to last longer. If you do chip your composite resin filling it can be repaired, unlike fillings make from materials such as amalgam.