What is Dental Filling?

Fillings are a commonplace procedure in dentistry, and all general dentists will have practice and experience with fitting them, meaning fillings can usually be performed with no wait time. Fillings come in a range of materials. Your dentist will guide you on what choice is best for you. 

Fillings treat the effects of tooth decay. If you experience sudden tooth aches, sensitivity, bad breath, and coloured spots appearing on your teeth, you may be suffering from tooth decay. If the erosion caused by tooth decay is not filled in, it can lead to further problems, meaning you may require a more complicated treatment such as a root canal, therefore it is usually better to get fillings done quickly. 

Who would benefit from the treatment?

Fillings are only used for sufferers of tooth decay, so not everyone will need one. Your dentist will notice any cavities during your standard checkup and will advise you if you need a filling. 

How does it work?

The procedure is very simple to complete and takes very little planning. This means that the filling can usually be placed on the same day as your initial appointment. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, then clean the cavity, before filling it with your chosen material. Once your filling has been cured, you are free to go about your day as normal. 

What materials are available?

Dental Fillings are widely available in a variety of materials:

Amalgam offers a mixture of metal alloy and liquid mercury which creates a silver filling. An amalgam filling also has a strong durability to wear and tear and will probably last a long time with proper care. Note, amalgam is banned in many countries including Europe. We are also not allowed to use amalgam in children or pregnant women here in the UK.

Composite fillings are more discreet, and match the natural tooth colour more closely than amalgam. The improved appearance makes composite a better choice for more visible teeth. 

Glass-ionomer filling is primarily composed of alumina, silica, and calcium. Because of its fluoride content, it offers a more protective healing quality, though it is weaker than composite or amalgam.

How much do fillings cost? 

The cost per filling will depend on the material chosen. You can find a full breakdown of each material, its benefits, and cost in the table below.