Fillings

What are fillings?

Fillings do exactly what the name suggests and fill cavities in teeth caused by tooth decay. They stop the pain caused by exposed nerve endings in tooth roots and halt the cavity from becoming worse. Fillings are a very common occurrence, with the majority of people having at least one filling in their lifetime.

How will I know if I need one?

If you are experiencing sensitivity to certain types of food temperatures or you have a bad tooth ache, then it’s possible that you have a cavity in your tooth enamel and require a filling. Your dentist will be able to fully determine if one is needed by using either a special dye to detect a cavity or by assessing your teeth via X-ray.

Are there different types of fillings?

Yes. There are a number of different materials used for individual types of fillings. These types of fillings include:

• Amalgam fillings - silver coloured; comprised of silver alloy, mercury, tin, copper and other metals. These are long lasting and have been used for over a hundred years. They can last for up to twenty years.
• Composite fillings - tooth coloured; made from silica, glass quartz and other ceramics. Although not as strong as amalgam fillings, they are still very durable.
• Gold inlays and onlays - inlays sit within the surface of the tooth, whilst onlays can cover large surface areas. The durability of the gold allows these to be used in almost all areas of the mouth.
• Porcelain inlays - made to match the colour of existing teeth. Fairly durable, but will need two visits to be fitted.
• Glass ionomers - a weak filling which limits is use to baby teeth and the surfaces on teeth which are not pressurised during biting.

What does the procedure for a filling involve?

Firstly, some procedure may require local anaethetic to be used, and then the surfaces of the teeth are professionally cleaned. The area is kept dry with cotton wool or a rubber dam and is shaped and etched using an acidic gel. The bonding material is then applied and hardened with a special curing light. The tooth and bonding material is then buffed and polished into the correct shape, leaving a smooth and natural looking smile.

Are there any risks with fillings, especially Amalgam ones?

Although Amalgam fillings contain mercury, its poisonous effects are lost once it is mixed with the other materials. The mercury thus becomes harmless, and there have been no reported cases linking amalgam fillings and poisoning.

How long do they usually last for?

If looked after very well, amalgam fillings can last for up to fifteen years, however the average is around seven.

What aftercare is required for a filling?

There may be some sensitivity directly after having a filling in your tooth, but this is likely to disappear after around a week. It is best to avoid eating and foodstuffs which increase the sensitive feelings on your tooth during this period. It is always important to maintain a good level of oral hygiene and it is no different with fillings. If poor oral hygiene becomes an issue, then the rate at which your filling deteriorates will increase or even more fillings will be required.

What’s the cost?

Private costs and NHS costs vary, so it is always advised to check prices first. Usually, prices start from £45.